Nevada Day: Celebrating the Silver State's Rich History

What Is Nevada Day and Why Do Nevadans Celebrate It?

Every year on the last Friday of October, the state of Nevada comes alive with festivities, parades, and historical reenactments. This day, known as Nevada Day, is a time when the people of the Silver State come together to celebrate their unique history, culture, and the rich heritage of the American West. While for some, Nevada Day is just a day off at the end of October, there is a deep history and significance to Nevada Day, so keep reading to shed light on why it is celebrated with such enthusiasm.


Nevada Day's Historical Roots

Nevada Day's history is intertwined with the state's own. The Silver State officially joined the United States on October 31, 1864, becoming the 36th state of the Union. As a result, October 31st has been celebrated as Nevada Day ever since. While Nevada Day was initially observed on October 31st each year, in 2000 it was officially moved to the last Friday of October to create a long weekend for Nevadans to enjoy the festivities, which include parades, fairs, and various events. This change was made to ensure that more people could participate and celebrate the day without needing to take time off work or school.


The Significance of Nevada Day

Nevada Day is a time for Nevadans to celebrate their unique history and culture. The state's history is rich with tales of pioneers, miners, and the Old West. Nevada played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century, and its history is deeply tied to the silver and gold rushes that brought many settlers to the region.


One of the most iconic aspects of Nevada's history is the Comstock Lode, a massive silver deposit discovered in the Virginia City area in the 1850s. This discovery transformed Nevada into a key player in the nation's mining industry and led to significant economic growth and development. In addition to its mining history, Nevada is also known for its contributions to the development of atomic energy, thanks to the presence of the Nevada Test Site. This site, used for nuclear weapons testing, played a pivotal role during the Cold War and the subsequent era of arms control agreements.


Nevada's diverse history and contributions to the nation are celebrated with great pride on Nevada Day. It's a day to reflect on the state's past and appreciate its unique place in American history.


Nevada Day Celebrations

Nevada Day celebrations are marked by a variety of events and activities. One of the most anticipated traditions is the Nevada Day Parade, which takes place in Carson City, the state's capital. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and historical reenactments that highlight the state's heritage. People from all over Nevada and even neighboring states come to witness this spectacular event. Other popular activities include fairs, festivals, and historical exhibitions. These events offer an opportunity for both residents and visitors to learn more about Nevada's history, culture, and heritage.

So... You Think You’re Gonna Walk Around Las Vegas? Think Again.

August 12, 2025
Ah, Las Vegas. The land of neon lights, endless buffets, and Elvis impersonators. You’ve just arrived, ready to strut down the Strip like a movie star. “We’ll just walk everywhere!” you say confidently. Let’s get one thing straight: Las Vegas is not a walkable city. It pretends to be. The hotels look close together on the map, but in reality? That “quick 5-minute walk” from your hotel to the next casino is actually a 30-minute expedition involving escalators, pedestrian bridges, confusing hotel lobbies, and at least one wrong turn through a souvenir shop. And don’t even get us started on the heat. If you're visiting anytime between May and...well, October, you’re basically walking on the surface of the sun. There's no shade, your flip-flops will melt to the sidewalk, and you’ll start questioning every life decision that led you to this moment. This city is designed for cars, not your poor aching feet.  Pro tips: - Use the monorail (yes, it exists!) - Embrace the rideshare life - Don’t trust "just a block away"—Vegas blocks are a lie. Sure, Las Vegas is magical—but it’s best explored with a good plan, some wheels, and the understanding that walking everywhere might just walk you straight into heat exhaustion.

The Writer’s Block: An Independent Bookstore in Downtown Las Vegas

August 4, 2025
Tucked away in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, The Writer’s Block is more than just a bookstore, a creative refuge in a city better known for neon lights and roulette wheels. Since opening its doors in 2014, this independent shop has built a reputation as a literary hub for locals and visitors alike. Located at 519 S. 6th Street in the artsy Fremont East district, The Writer’s Block blends the charm of a classic indie bookstore with a splash of Vegas flair. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of new books spanning every genre, an espresso bar for your reading fuel, and perhaps most charming of all—a whimsical artificial bird sanctuary that hovers overhead. But The Writer’s Block isn’t just about browsing books. It's also a community builder. The shop regularly hosts readings, writing workshops, and book clubs, offering something for readers and writers of all ages. Housed within The Lucy—a nonprofit arts and culture center funded by the Rogers Foundation—the bookstore doubles as a place where creative minds can gather, collaborate, and grow. Whether you're picking up your next great read, sipping a latte while drafting a screenplay, or just popping in to say hi to the resident rabbit (yes, there’s a rabbit too), The Writer’s Block is a welcome literary escape in the middle of the desert. In a city full of distractions, it’s a reminder that quiet, thoughtful spaces still exist—and they matter. 

Step Into the Shadows: Exploring Las Vegas’ Mob Museum

July 28, 2025
Tucked away in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, just steps from the flashing lights of Fremont Street, the Mob Museum offers something wildly different than the typical Vegas experience. Officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, this one-of-a-kind destination invites you to step into the gritty, gripping world of the American mob—and the people who tried to stop it. Housed in a historic 1930s U.S. Post Office and Courthouse—where real mob hearings took place—the building itself sets the tone. This is no ordinary museum. It’s immersive, intense, and at times, jaw-dropping Your journey begins at the top, tracing the rise of organized crime through Prohibition. Real artifacts tell real stories, including the actual bullet-riddled brick wall from Chicago’s infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. As you make your way down each floor, the exhibits dive deeper into how the mob operated, how Las Vegas became a haven for crime families, and how law enforcement fought back - with wiretaps, undercover agents, and televised trials that captivated the nation. One of the museum’s standout features is its fully restored courtroom, where the 1950s Kefauver Hearings were held - bringing mob activity into the public spotlight for the first time. It’s surreal to sit in the very space where America watched the mob be put on trial. Downstairs, visitors can try hands-on exhibits like a police training simulator, or step into a forensics lab to test their CSI skills. But the real hidden gem is in the basement: The Underground, a fully functioning speakeasy and distillery that serves up Prohibition-style cocktails and house-made moonshine. It's a delicious way to end your tour through history. Beyond the drama and intrigue, what makes the Mob Museum truly special is how educational and engaging it is. It’s not just about the mobsters—it’s about the impact organized crime had on American culture, law, and justice. Whether you're a true crime junkie, history buff, or just looking for something different to do in Vegas, the Mob Museum is a must-visit. It’s raw, real, and fascinating from start to finish. L ocation: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV Hours: Daily 9am–9pm Admission: Starts around $35; discounts available for Nevada residents, students, military & law enforcement Don’t Miss: The Underground speakeasy (open later hour s)