A to Zen

Easter weekend is just hours away. If you haven’t yet decided on an egg hunt or celebration, check out my list of everything Easter HERE; I’ve included events in Carson City, Carson Valley, Dayton, and of course, the Virginia City Parade. Start today out with some Dutch Bros. coffee for a good cause.

It won’t seem like it today, but spring is on the way. We’ll be seeing sunny days in the sixties by week’s end. If you’re looking for a way to entertain the kids, dollar days at our two bowling alleys make for a fun, yet inexpensive, outing. The Friends of the Carson City Library are hosting a week-long food drive. Bring your non-perishable donations to Browsers Corner Book Store and take a look around. You might find the perfect book for Spring Break.

MONDAY, March 26: Things to do in Carson City

• — Carson City School District Spring Break

Do you ever wonder about that old stone house at the eastern entrance to Mills Park? Called the Wungnema House it has interesting history. Take a tour today during the monthly open house, and learn more about the early residents of Carson City. As a child of the 80s, I’m excited about this week’s Flashback Cinema feature at Galaxy Theaters. "The Dark Chrystal" was a favorite of mine. If you’ve got kids, or a pang of nostalgia, catch one of the two showings today, or again Wednesday. Read on for more of what's happening today.

The weekend has arrived, and it will be an exceptionally long one for the schoolkids of Carson City: spring break begins Monday. There’s a rumor of snowfall for this weekend, but it’s not expected to be too heavy in the valley. Don’t quote me on that, though, I’ve been wrong before. Break a leg to the Douglas students performing in ‘Game of Tiaras’ this weekend; the show sounds hilarious, but be warned, it’s not for kids. For a family friendly outing, check out Story Time with Suzie at the Nevada Railroad Museum, or photos with the Easter Bunny at PetSmart.

SATURDAY:

We aren’t expecting any rain today, but weather control is well above my pay-grade. The recent downpour filled a few reservoirs around town, including the one at the corner of Roop Street and Little Lane.

It looks like Miracle March has arrived. Another storm is a few days away, and the University of Nevada has made it to the Sweet 16. Take advantage of the break in the weather and have some fun. Get your swing on at Carson Lanes or take the stage at the Fox Brewpub’s Karaoke night. Get a dose of toe-tapping old-timey music with the Hoboes at A to Zen. You’ll find them every Monday lunchtime at the store and streaming online.

MONDAY, March 19: Things to do in Carson City

Okay. This is one of the hardest weekend lists I’ve ever had to do. This dump of snow has cancelled some events, but others are in full force. Best I can tell, St. Patrick’s Day parties are not deterred by a little snowfall. There will be no parade in Virginia City, but the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fest is on. Head to downtown Carson for more green beer, Irish music, and corned beef and cabbage than you’ll know what to do with.

SATURDAY: St. Patrick’s Day

Winter may be showing up fashionably late, but she was certain to make an entrance. Schools in Carson City are closed due to the snowfall we received last night, but Carson Valley and Lyon County schools will be open. For the kids of Youth Theater Carson City: the show must go on.

While your morning commute will seem darker than usual, this evening will hold onto the sunshine longer. The first day after to work after the Daylight-Saving switch is always a little rough, so please drive carefully. Get some laughs this evening at the CVIC Hall in Minden. Local funny-lady, Kat Simmons, is hosting a showcase featuring the students of her most recent Stand Up Comedy workshop. Some of the humor may not be suitable for youngsters, so use your discretion. Get your swing on at Carson Lanes.

This weekend may feel like it goes by a little quicker than usual, and it’s not your imagination. In the wee hours of Sunday morning we spring forward into Daylight Savings Time. The Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada is teaming up with NDOT and the Head Injury Association of N. NV for a Brain Safety Day and free bicycle helmet giveaway. Join up with our Parks and Recreation Department for a guided walk at Riverview Park. The Experimental Aircraft Association is holding a Young Eagles event today, so if your kid loves airplanes, you won’t want to miss it.

The week winds down, but the happenings in Carson City are gearing up. Kids are going to have a fun time at the Carson Montessori Carnival Night. Help Relay for Life kick-off this year’s theme during their ‘Surfing for a Cure’ Luau at the Casino Fandango; you’ll have the opportunity to sign up your team, as well. No whining allowed, just fun times, at the Governor’s Mansion during tonight’s 'Let’s Wine Together' silent auction and wine fundraiser for the Carson High Band program.

Our library didn’t just get a new coat of paint during the several weeks it was undergoing its ‘refresh.’ It was also creating space for makers. Several programs are in the works that will require the use of the new sewing machines, and you’ll need to get certified before you can participate. Drop in today or on Saturday and you’ll be ready for anything. Carolyn Dolan brings the blues to Living the Good Life, but if you want to take to the stage yourself, look for karaoke at Jimmy G’s Hookah Lounge or the new Bella Vita Bistro in the Carson Mall.

The snow came, it sat, it melted. Luckily the dry roads make for easy commutes. Carson kids don't have school today; it's a scheduled professional day, so that will make the commute easier, as well. You'll find all day bowling specials at Carson Lanes if you're looking for something to do with the kids. Lunchtime at A to Zen features some live music with CW, Dave Leather, and Dr. Bones. Karaoke at the Fox Brewpub is a family-friendly affair.

I’m going to apologize right now. I can’t anticipate what this storm system will throw at us, so some of these planned events could get cancelled. One event that is never afraid of Mother Nature is the Downtown Carson City Wine Walk. Come rain, shine, or blizzard, you’ll find can sip, stroll, and discover starting at 1 p.m. Saturday. The Carson Hot Springs aren’t afraid of a little snow, and a special visit from Megan the Mermaid will make the icy hot experience more memorable. Keep reading to see what this slushy weekend has to offer.

SATURDAY:

The snow finally fell, and continues to fall. The Carson City and Douglas County School Districts have closed all schools due to the weather; Lyon County Schools are on a two hour delay. If you do have to head out, give yourself extra time to travel. Take a look in today’s happenings for family friendly options at the Carson Library or the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada. A celebration of new art exhibits and local artists can be found at the Carson City Art Gallery, in the Sierra Room of the Community Center, and in the Brewery Arts Center.

It’s no secret that I’m ready for spring, but I’d like to see a little winter show up first. Seems that I got my wish this week. We’ll get a nice dusting here in the valley, with a few inches in the mountains. Roads will be slippery, especially that bridge to Reno, so keep the driving to a minimum.

February is coming to a close, and we’ve got the chance at a nice weekend. Explore a new trail with Muscle Powered as they take on the Fay-Luther Trail south of Genoa. If you’re in a theater kind of mood, catch the Proscenium Players’ production of ‘Love Letters.’ See what the Nevada Artists Association has been up to during their Grand Re-opening and Winter Art Show Reception this afternoon. Read on and see what options the weekend brings.

SATURDAY:    

• — Flying Pig Flea Market at Fuji Park (8am-3pm; $1 admission, kids free) 

It’s been a cold week, and today is no exception, but you can have a hot time tonight. Live music, comedy, and karaoke are just some of your nightlife options. It’s family BINGO and Chili night at Carson Middle School: get some grub, maybe win one of the great prizes, and help the CMS Band Program raise funds. Dayton has a BINGO night of its own. Head to Dayton High School to get in on the action. It’s opening night for the Proscenium Players. Their production of ‘Love Letters’ runs for one weekend only, so get your tickets early. Stay safe out there, and have a great weekend.

There is absolutely a little bit of everything this weekend. There’s somewhere to volunteer, somewhere to eat some fundraising pancakes, join in an Asian New Year Lion Dance Parade, Beer Crawl in downtown Carson City, and get your Zumba on. I think the eclectic mix of happenings is one of my favorite things about our corner of the world. Whether it’s the International Film Festival, the Vagina Monologues, or telescope viewing at the WNC Observatory: you can’t tell me there is nothing to do.

SATURDAY:

Gong hei fat choy, Carson City. Today kicks off the Asian New Year, the Year of the Dog. Explore a new culture at the International Film Festival at the Community Center. The afternoon offers independent documentaries, and this evening brings a renown Mexican Film about the life and times of iconic actor and comedian, Mario Moreno. Take a gander at the newly refreshed Carson City Library during their Grand Re-opening celebration. Start your weekend with some comedy, live music, swing dancing, or karaoke.

Today is traditionally a day to celebrate sweethearts, but there are those who eschew the trappings of what they consider a ‘Hallmark holiday.’ However you choose to spend the day, you’ll find some options here. Show some love to local non-profit ‘Food for Thought’ by grabbing a yummy beverage at Dutch Brothers coffee today. Battle Born Social is hosting a Un-Valentine's Roaring 20s Party and hoping to see some zoot suits and flapper dresses while they serve era-inspired cocktails and appetizers.

Brrrrr. That chilly winter air has finally made an appearance, so pile on the layers and stay cozy. I’m going to keep my fingers crossed that some white stuff sticks to the mountains. Valentine’s Day is on Wednesday, so you’ll want to make reservations if you’re planning on dinner with your sweetheart. The Be Mine Gift and Craft Fair at the Carson Mall is a great place to find something unique for your one and only.

You can probably scratch ‘hitting the slopes’ off this weekend’s list of options, but you can hit the ‘hill’ instead: Prison Hill, to be exact. You’ll find the start and finish line for Ascent Runs’ ‘Love Can Be Cold’ 5 or 10K at the Prison Hill Southern Trailhead. If you’d rather crawl than run, Virginia City’s ‘Devil Made Me Do It’ Saloon Crawl might be for you. Find something special for your special someone at Artsy Fartsy’s annual Champagne and Jewelry Show or at the Valentine’s Craft Fair inside the Carson Mall.

Carson City Parks and Recreation is stepping up to the plate with pizza and a movie if you are looking for a way to get out without the kids in tow. You’ll want to register for Parent’s Night Out before all the spaces are filled. Hit the town and discover what new restaurants have popped up this last year. Enjoy live music at Living the Good Life, Bela Vita Bistro, or at the historic Genoa Bar. Teens are welcome at the Boys and Girls Club for a night of dancing, music, and a chance at raffle prizes.

FRIDAY, Feb. 9: Things to do in Carson City

You won’t find this Wednesday lacking when it comes to stuff to do, explore, and enjoy. The annual Carson High Talent Show always delights and thoroughly entertains the audience. Comma Coffee is hosting a reception for their newest display, the ‘Break These Chains Live Free’ Art Exhibit, featuring the winning pieces from a high school contest designed to bring awareness to human trafficking. A cute new shop downtown, Rustically Divine, celebrates it’s Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting.

For many, today is all about the big game. For others, it’s just about the commercials. For some, it’s no big deal at all. Either way, I’ve got you covered. You’ll find where to watch and where to bet on your favorites. Today is your last chance to audition for the upcoming production of ‘The Producers,’ so swing by the Brewery Arts Center if you’d like to be considered.

It’s hard to believe that it’s winter with these balmy temperatures. Take advantage of this beautiful day at the Downtown Carson City Wine Walk; grab a friend, a light jacket, and enjoy. See what the Wild Horse Children’s Theater’s elite performance troupe will be showcasing at an upcoming competition during a special presentation at the Carson Mall. If your bookshelves are looking a little bare, head to Dog Eared Books on Fairview where their fill-a-bag parking lot sale will have your reading list well supplied. Read on for a weekend full of happenings.

SATURDAY:

February is jumping right in. Join CCAI in celebrating the newest Courthouse Gallery exhibit: ‘Writing from Mars’ by Rick Parsons opens today with a reception at 5 p.m. Le Cirque Vagabond brings their rock sideshow revue, Asylum, to the Brewery Arts Center’s Performance Hall for a special performance; no one under 18 will be admitted. Choose from a number of venues hosting bands, karaoke, or DJs for a fun night out. If you’d like to be a performer yourself, consider auditioning for PPI’s newest venture, The Producers.

Many a romantic tune has been written about the moon: Blue Moon, Dancin’ in the Moonlight, Fly Me to the Moon. Channel the rare blood blue moon eclipse into something creative and enter the ‘Tell Me You Love Me’ Short Film Competition that begins today. Get a beautiful view of the full moon in picturesque Washoe Valley during a guided hike at the state park, just make sure to reserve your spot first. Something sweet is in store today at Baskin Robbins; they are celebrating ‘31’ with $1.50 scoops all day, and with the spring-like weather, ice cream might not be a bad idea.

Don't miss the chance to see the "Giants of Zen" Saturday night, 7 pm. in Carson City. This acoustic duo will be playing their unique versions of classic, contemporary and original songs at the A to Zen at 1803 N. Carson Street.