Western Lights Festival Brings Hope to Riverwalk Businesses

(RENO, Nev.) — Last month, the city of Reno introduced its latest contribution for locals and tourists with the premiere of the Western Lights Illuminated Art Festival.

https://youtu.be/NH-fuJLc0VA

Heavy traffic, enhanced by street closures, signaled something significant downtown. Cars filled every available parking space for blocks as groups walked toward the pounding music and illuminated creations by featured artists of the Western Lights Illuminated Art Festival. The festival, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was designed to bring a free art show to the community.

The three-day event featured displays at Wingfield Park, the Riverwalk and across five city blocks along Virginia Street. According to a report by News4, Rachel McIntyre, Reno activation coordinator, estimates attendance exceeded 50 thousand, rising to more than 60 thousand when accounting for guests who attended on multiple days.

Following the closure of one of the Riverwalk’s prime attractions, the Century Riverside Theater, the festival’s success has inspired hope for a downtown comeback.  Kris Swanson, owner of Amber Shore Pictures, and Irma Valle, owner of Antonio’s Restaurant want to see more events like this, to drive business back to the area.