The autumnal equinox is this weekend! Celebrate by attending a community festival, or a free concert if you’re in Las Vegas. It’s also Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15—join the fun in a block fiesta in Reno. Or if you’re in Elko—enjoy the beautiful Ruby Mountains as the backdrop for mesmerizing hot air balloons. There’s something for everyone!
Goodman Plaza Free Grand Opening Celebration — Saturday, Sept. 20 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Las Vegas Civic Center (525 S. Main St.) Free music performances, food trucks, and locally brewed alcoholic beverages for sale. Stay a while and invite your friends. Bring a blanket or low-back chairs to be more comfortable. The festival will feature artisan vendor booths, a kids’ zone, art activity, and free face painting.
Los Plátanos: Hi-Energy Latin Funk Band — Saturday, Sept. 20 from 3-4 p.m. at Windmill Library (7060 W. Windmill Lane) in Las Vegas. Los Plátanos’ music is a culmination of funk, jazz, salsa, reggae, samba, and more. The band encourages crowd interaction, whether it’s dancing, singing along, or participating in their unique percussion breaks. This concert is free, and seating is first-come, first-served.
Fiesta on Wells — Sunday, Sept. 21, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on S. Wells Ave. in Reno, between Burns and Vassar streets. This free event celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with music, food trucks, dance, arts, vendors, folklore, resource information booths, and more.
Ruby Mountain Balloon Festival — Sept. 19-21 in Elko (weather permitting). Friday: Balloons over Elko — 6:30 a.m. launching from various locations in town. Western States Propane Balloon Glow — 6 p.m., followed by a showing of the movie “UP” at Elko City Park. Saturday and Sunday: Mass ascensions — 6:30 a.m. at Elko City Park. Each year, the Ruby Mountain Balloon Festival showcases the beauty and magic of balloons soaring above the breathtaking landscape.
