things to do in Carson

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.

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.

Eagle Valley Middle School has an award-winning LEGO robotics team, and that extra-curricular falls firmly within the category of ‘STEAM.’ Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math in education is the focus of tonight’s ‘STEAM’ Night, chock-full of demonstrations, activities, experiments, and the aforementioned robots. Carson High’s more musically-inclined students can be found on the stage tonight at the Carson City Community Center for a Musical Theater and Choral Showcase. There’s even more on the menu for today, keep reading and learn all of your options.

Happy Tuesday, Carson City. Every week, Muscle Powered explores three different trails during their guided hikes. Today, join them as they walk sections of the multi-use path along the freeway. You’ll always find trivia at Fox Brewpub and at Sassafras on Tuesdays, but now you can also participate in Family Game Night at Battle Born Social or Celebrity Bingo at Westside Pour House. Singer-songwriter Canyon White leads the jam at Living the Good Life; sample something from their menu, or try their Tuesday taco and beer special, and sit back and enjoy the show.

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.

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.

As I write this, the snow has not yet begun to fall. I cannot predict whether we’ll see one inch or seven inches on the valley floor over the next few days, but wet roads make for a more dangerous journey. Please stay safe out there. Muscle Powered has already cancelled today's planned hike in Washoe Valley. If you do venture out this evening, head downtown. You’ll find karaoke at Jimmy G’s Cigar Bar, the Roska Collective in the Sage Lounge at Battle Born Social, and all you can eat wings at the Fox Brewpub.

Happy Wednesday, Carson City. If you’ve got anything outside that needs doing, the smart money would be on tackling that today. There is a hefty storm brewing and this is the last dry day we’ll see for a little while.

If you know where to look, every day is National something-or-other day. Today gets pancakes, and the International House of Pancakes is celebrating accordingly with a free short stack. It is a fundraiser for the Children’s Medical Network, so leave something for the organization in addition to the tip. CASA, Court-appointed Special Advocates, is always looking for more volunteers to stand up for children. Join them for coffee and find out more about this great organization.

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.

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.

I really can’t keep up with the changing weather reports around here. I think we are expecting snow, so you’ll want to be ready for anything. Our County Clerk’s office is holding an open house to show off the new voting machines we’ll be using for this year’s elections.

I know we were expecting yesterday to be cold, but that was downright bitter. More of the same can be expected, with a possibility of snow tomorrow. Luckily, you’ll find plenty of things to enjoy indoors. If you have a talent to show off, don’t miss the last live audition for the upcoming ‘Carson’s Got Talent.’ If you can’t make it, submit your audition online HERE.

Thank goodness that there won’t be any school traffic on this very cold and icy morning. Presidents Day is a day off for the kids, so let them stay in their warm beds. Dollar days at the Gold Dust West and Carson Lanes Bowling Alleys can be a fun activity if you venture out. The Proscenium Players are still looking for members of their Repertory Theater troupe, so don’t miss their last audition event this evening. The Empty Bowls Project Soup Fest is a delicious part of the Silver and Snowflakes Tree Lighting Ceremony in December, but the planning begins now.

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.

Valentine’s was yesterday, but you can fall in puppy love any day of the year. CASI, the Carson Animal Shelter Initiative, does some great things for the shelter animals in our valley. Learn how you can get involved during their monthly meeting at the Nevada Humane Society. The International Film Weekend brings a slice of life from around the world to our own Bob Boldrick Theater. You’ll get the chance to see some great independent documentaries, in addition to award-winning films from other cultures.

This Fat Tuesday is full of things to do. Head to the Fox Brewpub for their ‘Taco ‘bout it’ Fundraiser for Advocates to End Domestic Violence: a portion of taco sales today will benefit the organization. Learn about Nevada silver screen icons like Marilyn Monroe, aliens, and the King of Rock and Roll during a CCAI Nevada Neighbors presentation by long-time film reviewer, Robin Holabird. Sierra Nevada Forums brings experts from various backgrounds to shed light on difficult and complex topics facing our society.

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.

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

With Valentine’s Day next week, some people may be in a scramble to find just the right gift for their someone special. Carson City has got you covered. Check out the work of R. Fox tonight during an artist reception this evening at the Artsy Fartsy Art Gallery. The new Espresso Yourself Café inside Brewery Arts Center is filled with local art, and locally made chocolates. Their grand opening is on Saturday, but you’ll find them open now.

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.

A very happy Tuesday to you, Carson City. You’ll find some great family friendly options today including Storytime Adventures at the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada or Family Game Night at Battle Born Social, that also includes a free meal for kids. Father-daughter night at Chili’s restaurant promotes communication and quality time, and will get you a free dessert, as well. Our local Classic Cinema Club features a ‘new’ old flick every month; don’t miss their showing of Casablanca tonight, it’s one of Humphrey Bogart’s best performances.

There doesn’t seem to be any ‘brrrr’ in this February so far, and this week won’t buck the warm weather trend. A new exhibit can be found at the CCAI Gallery on the second floor of the Carson City Courthouse: Writing from Mars, by Rick Parsons, is on display until May 23. Red’s Old 395 is known for their happy hour with great drink prices and yummy appetizers. Martinis are half-price today if you need to unwind.

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.

January just kind of flew by, it seems every weekend had an extra day attached. Well, now that it’s February that means we’ve got a wine walk coming up this weekend. The big Patriots versus Eagles battle is just days away, as well, so you’ll want to visit a sports book if you plan on placing a few bets. Get some amazing views of our valley during the Muscle Powered Hike along the Ormsby Fire Road, behind the Nevada State Railroad Museum. Ev Musselman makes an appearance at the Feisty Goat Pub, bringing some music into the little hide-away tavern.

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.

The very talented students in the Carson Middle School Jazz Band have been practicing up a storm to get ready for tonight’s joint performance with the Mile High Jazz Band. Their Jazz Extravaganza kicks off at the Carson City Community Center at 7 p.m. Swing by Firehouse Subs for dinner tonight and you’ll be helping the Carson/Douglas Relay for Life in addition to filling your tummy. Smarty pants are encouraged during trivia night at the Fox Brewpub and Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint.

It is finally Friday, so let’s kick off the weekend. Start the day at Dunkin Donuts on Highway 50 and you’ll be treated to some free coffee, samples, and giveaways. Kids will have a great time during Books and Brags Storytime Adventures at the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada. The 19th annual Senior Fair at the Douglas County Community Center offers up a plethora of information, and is open to the public, no matter your age. You’ll always find a new headlining comic inside the Nugget at Carson Comedy: tonight Alex Elkin takes the stage.

The mountains are finally wearing a beautiful winter coat, with even a little more to fall before tomorrow, but Carson City just got a dusting. That means the roads are slick, so give yourself some extra travel time until the sun gets a chance to melt it off. The Roska Collective wants to help you kick off your weekend early with Techno and Tequila at Battle Born Social downtown. The Bella Vita Bistro in the Carson Mall adds Thirsty Thursday Karaoke to the mix.