Good morning, Reno.

The Nevada Humane Society advises Reno residents to consider gifting a pet during the holidays, offering personality matching (for dogs or cats) to ensure a lasting bond.

The shelter sees about 10,000 animals each year in need of a caring home.

Taco John's on Wells Avenue will permanently close at the end of this month in Reno.

The restaurant will end operations as scheduled – customers are advised to complete their visits before it shuts down.

Despite federal funding cuts last month, the University of Nevada, Reno is restructuring its Southwest Regional Food Business Center to support food production, helping 170 businesses and scaling meat processing infrastructure; UNR submitted grant applications for over ($6M) and will expand technical assistance while building on past support.

Local winter sports shops see reduced sales as warm December weather slows ski and snowboard business, while golf courses and outdoor activities draw visitors; some stores now offer discounts + specials while they wait for the snow to return.

Washoe County School District board approved a two-year bargaining agreement with the Washoe Education Association and new school zoning that will close Dodson and Smithridge plus modernize other campuses for a new elementary school at Pine Middle for the 2028–29 year; the agreement takes effect retroactive to July 1.

Governor Joe Lombardo appointed Dr. Victor Wakefield as the new superintendent of public education.

Wakefield will work to set a statewide framework for K-12 schools while allowing local districts self-governance and plans to invite community collaboration during his first 100 days in office.

The Washoe County School District Board unanimously rezoned multiple South Reno elementary schools, moving Corbett, Smithridge, and Donner Springs to the new Pine campus.

Dodson Elementary students will alternate between Hidden Valley and Donner Springs, and middle and high school paths will change for 2028-29.

Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District said Battalion Chief Ryan Rizzuto passed away Sunday night while off duty — the agency activated support resources and briefly called on Reno and Sparks fire departments as it asked the community to respect the family's privacy.

An online auction is underway for items from the former Jones West Ford building and the adjacent Joann store at Peckham Square as new ownership prepares the site for a future Reno soccer stadium – bidding continues until Dec.

18.

Mint Field Concert

8-10 p.m. — The Holland Project — $12 – $15 — Mexico City band Mint Field blends unique sounds for an engaging live performance.

Jamey Johnson Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Grand Theater — Tickets available — Experience a powerful night of country music with award-winning artist Jamey Johnson.

Do The Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — West 2nd Street Karaoke Bar — Ticket required — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive pub crawl in your ugliest sweater, complete with games and prizes.

The Nutcracker Performance

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Grand Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical journey of Clara and her nutcracker in this enchanting ballet classic.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Celebrity Showroom — Ticket required — Experience the magic of Christmas carols performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

Nutcracker Ballet

1-2:30 p.m. — Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts — $33 to $72 — Experience the beloved holiday classic brought to life by A.V.A. Ballet Theatre and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra.

Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to The Beatles

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Celebrity Showroom — Ticketed event — Experience The Beatles' iconic music illuminated by candlelight in a stunning atmosphere.

Rattlesnake Mountain Challenge

5 PM – 5 AM — Huffaker Hills Trailhead — $40 for 5k, $35 for Virtual 5k — Tackle the trails of Rattlesnake Mountain for a great cause and enjoy a fun-filled race experience.

Santa's Top Talent Showcase

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Grand Theater — Free entry — Enjoy a festive talent showdown featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a panel of whimsical judges.

Dave & Buster's Early New Year's Eve Celebration

9 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Reno — $15 for General Admission — Celebrate 2026 with dinner, games, and a midnight champagne toast.