Christmas Events for Kids in Reno, NV (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

17 min read

The Reno, NV area has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from HOME for the Holidays in Reno on November 27 to Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza in Reno, on December 23. 14 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Nevada, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 18 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Reno, NV for 2026, in Reno, Sparks and Incline Village
  • First: HOME for the Holidays, Reno, November 27. Runs latest: HOME for the Holidays, Reno, through December 23
  • Free: Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft, Santa Paws!, Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop, Holiday Party with Santa, DIY Ornament Workshop, Gingerbread House Workshop, Holiday Family Arts Festival, Santa Paws!, Santa Paws!, Gingerbread House Workshop, Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie, Jammies & Jingles and Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Nevada Christmas train rides page.

Reno, NV Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
18 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Reno, Sparks and Incline Village
Season
November 27 to December 23, 2026
Free events
14
Kinds of events
holiday crafts, story time with Santa, holiday story time and Santa and Mrs. Claus
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Reno, NV Christmas event for kids happens

The first is HOME for the Holidays in Reno on November 27; the last runs to December 23. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Reno, NV? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Reno

14 confirmed events for kids in Reno, soonest first.

Reno: HOME for the Holidays

Santa and Mrs. ClausReno Aces · Reno

Host
Reno Aces (opens in a new tab)
Where
Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave., Reno, NV 89501
When
Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Thu December 3, Fri December 4, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Thu December 10, Fri December 11, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Wed December 16, Thu December 17, Fri December 18, Sat December 19, Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22 and Wed December 23, 2026, 5 to 9 pm
Cost
Ticketed, children 2 and under do not need a ticket
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Greater Nevada Field is lit from end to end for a 360-degree stadium light show. The centerpiece is a 100-foot Christmas tree with six light shows set to holiday songs, and a new show starts every 20 minutes. Each night runs from 5 to 9 pm and guests can arrive whenever it suits them.

Every ticket includes a free hot chocolate that is loaded onto the ticket and redeemed at stands around the park. Kids can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus, share a wish list, and pose for a photo. There is also an ornament-making station and letters to Santa. The event runs on nineteen nights between November 27 and December 23. Children 2 and under do not need a ticket, and parking is sold separately. The event takes place at Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave., Reno, NV 89501. Cost: Ticketed, children 2 and under do not need a ticket. Registration or advance booking is recommended. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Buy tickets and parking ahead from the Aces page. Arrive early in the evening if you want the shortest line for Santa.

See dates and details from Reno Aces (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Reno Library, 301 S. Center St., Reno, NV 89501
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 3 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids and families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Downtown Reno Library's Young People's Library hosts a Crafternoon on Thursday, December 3 from 3 to 5 pm. Children and their families are invited to spend an afternoon crafting, and this week the project is a snowmen fingerprint craft.

Supplies are provided while they last, so there is nothing to bring. No registration is listed, which makes it an easy drop-in during a library visit. The two-hour window gives families flexibility to come and go. Crafternoon is the library's regular family craft series, and staff set out simple materials that young children can handle on their own. The event takes place at Downtown Reno Library, 301 S. Center St., Reno, NV 89501. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: Kids and families.

Parent tip: Supplies are first come, first served, so come early in the window.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Santa Paws!

Story time with SantaFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Duncan/Traner Community Library, 1650 Carville Dr., Reno, NV 89512
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Duncan/Traner Community Library invites families to stay after Family Story Time for Santa Paws. The library's special furry friends are on hand for an adorable photo opportunity, and kids can make a craft to take home.

The program runs from 3:30 to 4:30 pm on Friday, December 4, and it is free. There is no registration listed, so families can simply drop in. It works well as a relaxed, low-key holiday outing for toddlers through early elementary children, especially if you are already planning to attend story time at the branch. Washoe County libraries run Family Story Time as a regular program, so the Santa Paws visit is a natural add-on to a branch visit. The event takes place at Duncan/Traner Community Library, 1650 Carville Dr., Reno, NV 89512. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Bring your own camera or phone for the photo. Stories come first, so arrive for Family Story Time if you want the full experience.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

South Valleys Library runs its gingerbread house workshop twice, Wednesday, December 9. This listing covers 3:30 to 4:30 pm, and another one starts at 5 pm. Kids build a house of their own, with graham crackers, frosting and candy.

You need to register, and the library wants each person who will build a house signed up individually. Kids younger than 10 need a caregiver beside them who is at least 13 and can watch over the child's safety and conduct. There is no cost. If the first time does not suit you, the 5 pm session offers the same workshop later. Location: South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511. Cost: free. Sign-up required. Age range: Kids.

Parent tip: Sign up every child who will build. Kids younger than 10 need a caregiver aged 13 or over with them.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: DIY Ornament Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Reno Library, 301 S. Center St., Reno, NV 89501
When
Friday, December 11, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids and families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Downtown Reno Library hosts a DIY Ornament Workshop in the Young People's Library on Friday, December 11 from 3 to 4 pm. Kids are invited to design and decorate their own ornament using a variety of craft supplies.

The library describes it as a hands-on chance to be creative, practice fine motor skills and make a keepsake to take home. The workshop is free and the calendar lists no registration. Families with children from preschool age through the teen years are welcome. Staff describe the workshop as a way to build fine motor skills while making something kids can hang at home. The event takes place at Downtown Reno Library, 301 S. Center St., Reno, NV 89501. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: Kids and families.

Parent tip: Come in clothes that can handle glitter and paint.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Gingerbread House Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sierra View Library, 4001 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89502
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Make your own gingerbread house at Sierra View Library on Saturday, December 12, 10:30 to 11:30 am. The library provides graham crackers, frosting and candy, and kids do the building and decorating.

Registration is required, and the library asks you to register everyone who will be making a house. A second session is held the same day at 2:30 pm if this one fills up. The workshop is free and takes place at the branch inside Reno Town Mall on South Virginia Street. If this session is full, a second Gingerbread House Workshop is offered at the same branch at 2:30 pm the same day. The event takes place at Sierra View Library, 4001 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89502. Admission is free. Registration is required. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Register early, since gingerbread sessions tend to fill. Wear something that can handle a little frosting.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Holiday Family Arts Festival

Story time with SantaFreeArts for All Nevada · Reno

Host
Arts for All Nevada (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lake Mansion, 250 Court St., Reno, NV 89501
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm
Cost
Free, no RSVP needed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Arts for All Nevada hosts this free festival at the historic Lake Mansion, with activities planned for the whole family. Santa will be there to hear holiday wishes and pose for photos, and the High Desert Harmonies will sing Christmas carols.

Children can join holiday and winter-themed crafts, and every child receives a free book courtesy of Spread the Word Nevada. Local artists and organizations will have tables, so there is a bit of holiday shopping on offer for grown-ups. A toy drive collects gifts for the Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation, and local historian Patty Cafferata, a Lake Mansion expert, will be on hand to talk about the house. No RSVP is needed. The event takes place at Lake Mansion, 250 Court St., Reno, NV 89501. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: All ages.

Parent tip: Bring a new, unwrapped toy if you would like to give to the toy drive. Plan on a drop-in visit anytime between 10 am and 2 pm.

See dates and details from Arts for All Nevada (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Santa Paws!

Story time with SantaFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sierra View Library, 4001 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89502
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Stay after Family Story Time to meet the library's costumed furry friends for a sweet photo and some crafting. Santa Paws is a much-loved holiday visitor across Washoe County libraries, and the Sierra View session is on Saturday, December 12, 11 am to noon.

Reno Town Mall, on South Virginia Street, houses Sierra View Library, which makes it easy to fit around errands. It costs nothing, and the calendar mentions no sign-up. Children can put together an easy holiday craft while parents snap pictures with the costumed characters. Because Family Story Time is right before the visitors appear, families can spend a whole hour there. Location: Sierra View Library, 4001 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89502. Cost: free. No sign-up needed. Age range: Kids.

Parent tip: Come a little ahead of time so your children are settled before photos start.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit

Story time with SantaWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Reno Library, Young People's Library, 301 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 10:15 to 11:45 am
Cost
No fee listed; registration highly recommended
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Downtown Reno Library celebrates the season with a Holiday Family Story Time and a Very Merry Santa Visit on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, from 10:15 to 11:45 am in the Young People's Library, the children's area of the branch.

The morning opens with a holiday story time, followed by a visit from Santa Claus before he heads back to the North Pole to finish his preparations. Families are invited to stay afterward for wintery crafts, and children can read aloud to a favorite Santa Paws therapy dog friend, which is a gentle way for new readers to practice. The library highly recommends registering, and registration opens at 10:15 am on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, through the event page. With both stories and Santa in one visit, this is one of the more complete holiday mornings on the Reno library calendar.

Parent tip: Registration opens December 1 at 10:15 am and is highly recommended.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511
When
Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Every Wednesday, South Valleys Library hosts Crafternoon, and on December 16, 4 to 5 pm, kids will make a hot cocoa craft out of paper cups. It is an easy, snug winter project for children and their families.

The session begins sharply at 4 pm; the library requests that anyone who is late come another week instead of disrupting the activity under way. Signing up in advance is strongly advised. Kids under 10 need a caregiver with them who is 13 or older and can handle the child's safety and behavior. Because Crafternoon happens each Wednesday, you can come back for more crafts in the series. Location: South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511. Cost: free. Signing up or booking ahead is recommended. Age range: Kids.

Parent tip: Be there before 4 pm, since it starts on the dot. Kids under 10 need a caregiver aged 13 or over.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie

Holiday showFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Northwest Reno Library, 2325 Robb Dr., Reno, NV 89523
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 4 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Northwest Reno Library presents a spirited showing of the 1992 film The Muppet Christmas Carol on Friday, December 18 from 4 to 6 pm. The interactive format brings a grab bag of props, cues for audience responses, and snacks to enjoy during the movie.

Registration is required for admittance. Grab bags are given out on a first-served basis, so arrive on time to get one. The program is free and aimed at kids, though families with older siblings and parents are welcome to join in the fun. The grab bag of props lets kids react along with the movie, which keeps the screening lively for restless viewers. The event takes place at Northwest Reno Library, 2325 Robb Dr., Reno, NV 89523. Admission is free. Registration is required. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Register ahead and arrive early to get a grab bag of props. The movie runs about two hours.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites

Holiday story timeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Reno Library, 301 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
No fee listed; registration opens Nov 6
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Pioneer Center Golden Encore brings In-Tune Tales to the Downtown Reno Library on Friday, December 18, 2026, from 11 am to noon. The show stars longtime Reno radio talent and musician Scot Marshall alongside Graham Marshall and Ron Savage, and the library files it under holiday, music performance, youth programs and story time.

The centerpiece is the Dr. Seuss classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas, told in its entirety through spoken word, song and sound effects. Around it, the trio plays jazz, pop and bluegrass arrangements of several classic holiday songs. Scot Marshall learned storytelling from his grandmother, who traveled with the Chautauqua circuit, and many local families will recognize his voice from the weekly KUNR program Saturday Night Jazz. Registration for the performance opens on Friday, November 6, 2026, through the library's event page.

Parent tip: Registration opens November 6 at 11 am on the event page.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Jammies & Jingles

Holiday story timeFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 5 to 5:45 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids, preschool, babies and toddlers
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

South Valleys Library invites families to a pajama party on Friday, December 18 from 5 to 5:45 pm. Children wear their coziest PJs and join in winter holiday songs, stories and playful activities.

The program is aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and it is free. The calendar does not list registration, so families can simply drop in. The early evening time works well for a calm end to the day before bedtime routines begin. The program is built around singing and stories, so it suits wiggly toddlers as well as preschoolers. The event takes place at South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: Kids, preschool, babies and toddlers.

Parent tip: Dress little ones in warm pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed friend if they like.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Reno: Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza

Holiday eventFreeWashoe County Library System · Reno

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 2 with caregivers
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

South Valleys Library hosts a festive sensory play time for children from birth to age 2 with their caregivers, Wednesday, December 23, 11 am to noon. A range of seasonal things to see, hear and feel are laid out for eager little fingers.

You must register, but only list the children who will come. Grown-ups need not sign up. It costs nothing and is a mellow choice for the calmer days leading up to Christmas. Babies and young toddlers can enjoy a blend of visuals, noises and textures at their own pace. Location: South Valleys Library, 15650-A Wedge Pkwy., Reno, NV 89511. Cost: free. Sign-up required. Age range: Ages 0 to 2 with caregivers.

Parent tip: Only children need to be signed up. Plan for messy, hands-on play.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Sparks

3 confirmed events for kids in Sparks, soonest first.

Sparks: Family Holiday Movie Night

Holiday story timeWashoe County Library System · Sparks

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sparks Library, 1125 12th St, Sparks, NV 89431 (near Reno)
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4:30 to 6:30 pm
Cost
No fee listed; registration opens Nov 11
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Sparks Library hosts a Family Holiday Movie Night on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. The evening begins with a special reading of The Polar Express, the picture book about a boy's magical Christmas Eve journey to the North Pole, and then families settle in to watch the film version together.

Hot cocoa is part of the fun, and children are encouraged to come to the library in their pajamas and snuggle in for the movie, so bringing a small blanket or pillow is a nice idea. The two-hour program ends in time for an early bedtime, which makes it a relaxed school-night outing for younger children. Registration for the evening opens at 4:30 pm on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, through the Washoe County Library event page, and signing up early is a good idea for a popular holiday title.

Parent tip: Come in pajamas and bring a blanket. Registration opens November 11.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Sparks: Santa Paws!

Story time with SantaFreeWashoe County Library System · Sparks

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Spanish Springs Library, 7100 Pyramid Hwy., Sparks, NV 89436 (near Reno)
When
Monday, December 14, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Spanish Springs Library hosts Santa Paws on Monday, December 14 from 11 am to noon. The special furry friends join families after Toddler Time for photos and crafts, which makes this a good fit for the youngest library visitors.

The event is free and the calendar does not list a registration requirement. Kids can make a holiday craft while grown-ups snap pictures. If your child enjoys story time, arrive early for Toddler Time and then stay for the photos and craft. Toddler Time at the branch comes first, and the Santa Paws friends join the group afterward for the photo moment. The event takes place at Spanish Springs Library, 7100 Pyramid Hwy., Sparks, NV 89436. Admission is free. No registration is needed. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Toddler Time comes first, so plan your morning around the program before photos.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Sparks: Gingerbread House Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeWashoe County Library System · Sparks

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sparks Library, 1125 12th St., Sparks, NV 89431 (near Reno)
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Sparks Library hosts a Gingerbread House Workshop on Tuesday, December 15 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm. Kids make their own house with a small milk carton, graham crackers, frosting and candy, all supplied by the library.

Registration is required, and families should register every person who will be building a house. The program is free, and the Sparks branch is on 12th Street. It is an easy after-school activity for elementary-age children who enjoy hands-on projects. The small milk carton works as a sturdy frame, so even younger builders can create a house that stands up. The event takes place at Sparks Library, 1125 12th St., Sparks, NV 89431. Admission is free. Registration is required. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Register each builder in advance. Plan for a sticky, sweet hour and bring wipes.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Incline Village

1 confirmed event for kids in Incline Village, soonest first.

Incline Village: Holiday Party with Santa

Supper with SantaFreeWashoe County Library System · Incline Village

Host
Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Incline Village Library, 845 Alder Ave., Incline Village, NV 89451 (near Reno)
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Incline Village Library hosts a Holiday Party with Santa for kids on Wednesday, December 9 from 4 to 5:30 pm. The party includes gingerbread houses to build and decorate, a station for writing letters to Santa, and a hot cocoa bar.

The library asks families to register for this event, so sign up through the library calendar before you go. The program is free. Incline Village sits on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, so allow extra drive time from Reno in winter weather and check road conditions before heading out. The party is aimed at kids, and the hot cocoa bar gives children a warm treat to enjoy while they decorate. The event takes place at Incline Village Library, 845 Alder Ave., Incline Village, NV 89451. Admission is free. Registration or advance booking is recommended. Ages: Kids.

Parent tip: Register ahead through the library calendar. Check road conditions if you are driving up from Reno.

See dates and details from Washoe County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Nevada Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Las Vegas and Henderson, NV. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Reno, NV Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Reno, NV in 2026?

We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in Reno, NV for 2026 on each host’s own page: HOME for the Holidays in Reno (November 27), Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft in Reno (December 3), Santa Paws! in Reno (December 4), Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno (December 9), Family Holiday Movie Night in Sparks (December 9), Holiday Party with Santa in Incline Village (December 9), DIY Ornament Workshop in Reno (December 11), Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno (December 12), Holiday Family Arts Festival in Reno (December 12), Santa Paws! in Reno (December 12), Santa Paws! in Sparks (December 14), Gingerbread House Workshop in Sparks (December 15), Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit in Reno (December 15), Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa in Reno (December 16), "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie in Reno (December 18), In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites in Reno (December 18), Jammies & Jingles in Reno (December 18) and Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza in Reno (December 23). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Reno, Nevada?

For families in and around Reno, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: HOME for the Holidays (Select nights, Nov 27 to Dec 23, 5 to 9 pm, ticketed, children 2 and under do not need a ticket); Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft (Thu, Dec 3, 3 to 5 pm, free); Santa Paws! (Fri, Dec 4, 3:30 to 4:30 pm, free); Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop (Wed, Dec 9, 3:30 to 4:30 pm, free); DIY Ornament Workshop (Fri, Dec 11, 3 to 4 pm, free); Gingerbread House Workshop (Sat, Dec 12, 10:30 to 11:30 am, free); Holiday Family Arts Festival (Sat, Dec 12, 10 am to 2 pm, free, no rsvp needed); Santa Paws! (Sat, Dec 12, 11 am to noon, free); Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit (Tue, Dec 15, 10:15 to 11:45 am, no fee listed; registration highly recommended); Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa (Wed, Dec 16, 4 to 5 pm, free); "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie (Fri, Dec 18, 4 to 6 pm, free); In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites (Fri, Dec 18, 11 am to noon, no fee listed; registration opens nov 6); Jammies & Jingles (Fri, Dec 18, 5 to 5:45 pm, free); Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza (Wed, Dec 23, 11 am to noon, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Reno section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Sparks, Nevada?

For families in and around Sparks, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Family Holiday Movie Night (Wed, Dec 9, 4:30 to 6:30 pm, no fee listed; registration opens nov 11); Santa Paws! (Mon, Dec 14, 11 am to noon, free); Gingerbread House Workshop (Tue, Dec 15, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Sparks section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Incline Village, Nevada?

For families in and around Incline Village, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holiday Party with Santa (Wed, Dec 9, 4 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Incline Village section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Reno, NV?

Yes. 14 of the 18 events here are free: Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft in Reno, Santa Paws! in Reno, Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno, Holiday Party with Santa in Incline Village, DIY Ornament Workshop in Reno, Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno, Holiday Family Arts Festival in Reno, Santa Paws! in Reno, Santa Paws! in Sparks, Gingerbread House Workshop in Sparks, Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa in Reno, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie in Reno, Jammies & Jingles in Reno and Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza in Reno. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Reno, NV this December?

Santa appears at HOME for the Holidays in Reno (November 27), Santa Paws! in Reno (December 4), Holiday Party with Santa in Incline Village (December 9), Holiday Family Arts Festival in Reno (December 12), Santa Paws! in Reno (December 12), Santa Paws! in Sparks (December 14) and Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit in Reno (December 15). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Reno, NV?

Holiday story times on this page: Santa Paws! in Reno, Family Holiday Movie Night in Sparks, Holiday Family Arts Festival in Reno, Santa Paws! in Reno, Santa Paws! in Sparks, Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit in Reno, In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites in Reno and Jammies & Jingles in Reno. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Reno, NV?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Holiday Party with Santa in Incline Village (Wed, Dec 9, 4 to 5:30 pm). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Reno, NV Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Santa Paws! in Sparks (Kids), Jammies & Jingles in Reno (Kids, preschool, babies and toddlers) and Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza in Reno (Ages 0 to 2 with caregivers).

How much is HOME for the Holidays in Reno?

Ticketed, children 2 and under do not need a ticket. HOME for the Holidays is on Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Thu December 3, Fri December 4, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Thu December 10, Fri December 11, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Wed December 16, Thu December 17, Fri December 18, Sat December 19, Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22 and Wed December 23, 2026, 5 to 9 pm at Greater Nevada Field. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft in Reno?

Free. Crafternoon: Snowmen Fingerprint Craft is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 3 to 5 pm at Downtown Reno Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Paws! in Reno?

Free. Santa Paws! is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm at Duncan/Traner Community Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno?

Free. Crafternoon: Gingerbread House Workshop is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm at South Valleys Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Holiday Movie Night in Sparks?

No fee listed; registration opens Nov 11. Family Holiday Movie Night is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Sparks Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Party with Santa in Incline Village?

Free. Holiday Party with Santa is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm at Incline Village Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is DIY Ornament Workshop in Reno?

Free. DIY Ornament Workshop is on Friday, December 11, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Downtown Reno Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop in Reno?

Free. Gingerbread House Workshop is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am at Sierra View Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Family Arts Festival in Reno?

Free, no RSVP needed. Holiday Family Arts Festival is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm at Lake Mansion. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Paws! in Reno?

Free. Santa Paws! is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 am to noon at Sierra View Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Paws! in Sparks?

Free. Santa Paws! is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 11 am to noon at Spanish Springs Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop in Sparks?

Free. Gingerbread House Workshop is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Sparks Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit in Reno?

No fee listed; registration highly recommended. Holiday Family Story Time & a Very Merry Santa Visit is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 10:15 to 11:45 am at Downtown Reno Library, Young People's Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa in Reno?

Free. Crafternoon: Paper Cup Hot Cocoa is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at South Valleys Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie in Reno?

Free. "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Interactive Movie is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 4 to 6 pm at Northwest Reno Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites in Reno?

No fee listed; registration opens Nov 6. In-Tune Tales with Scot Marshall: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & Other Holiday Favorites is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 11 am to noon at Downtown Reno Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Jammies & Jingles in Reno?

Free. Jammies & Jingles is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 5 to 5:45 pm at South Valleys Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza in Reno?

Free. Festive Babies: a Holiday Sensory Extravaganza is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 11 am to noon at South Valleys Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Reno, NV?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Reno, NV Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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