February 18 – 20, 2027

Mark your calendars as Western Lights officially returns to Downtown Reno February 18 – 20, 2027, promising another electrifying year of illuminated art, music, performance and more.

Art Application

Art piece throwing fire at western lights

2027 Art Applications
Are Live

Western Lights is now accepting proposals from artists, studio groups, and performance artists for temporary public art installations. Light, illumination, and/or lit elements should be a major component of the proposed artwork.

Now in its third year, Western Lights has grown into one of Reno’s most beloved events. We’re looking for collaborators and artists to help continue that growth.

Apply Now

What people are saying

Best original festival in the USA!

Adventure season

Congrats on a successful event, the best we’ve been to in Reno in a long time.

Reno was literally lit! thank you artists & Western Light Crew for all your hard work!! we always look forward to this amazing event.

Wow! What a treat to dance to a Mark Farina twilight set, surrounded by so much creativity and good vibe. My soul feels inspired – thank you for all you bring to our little city.

Brandi Jackson

Western Lights Festival in Reno NV. Art and people for the soul. An amazing event for our area.

Melody Hoover

Such an epic event. Happy to donate to keep this available to our community.

We were so impressed with this year’s festival! We are thankful to have this in our neighborhood.

Mindy Alaniz

Incredible job everyone! Proud to call reno my home and it’s because of events like this. Keep up the great work!

Ben

My Western Lights set was everything and more that I could have wished for. The Grand Artique crew and stage held that bohemian magic and love they are known for.

Anthony Postman

If you still think there’s nothing to do in Reno… You’re just not paying attention. Western Lights Festival lit up Downtown Reno, NV this pas weekend completely free, packed with locals, Art and full of energy.

Taylor Baruh

Western Lights Festival turned downtown Reno into a full-on art playground. It didn’t just feel like a festival, it felt like the entire city showed up.

Stay Local Reno

Much respect to Megan Miller and the entire crew who braved the snow to make the Western Lights Illuminated Art Festival an absolutely magical weekend in Reno.

Rock on Magazine

It’s been a few days since the Western Lights Illuminated Art Festival and I’m still feeling it. This year’s festival wasn’t just beautiful, it was huge for downtown Reno.

George Berlioz

Latest News

Western Lights on PBS Reno

Discover the Western Lights Illuminated Art Festival in…

Western Lights brought real magic to downtown Reno

By Jerry Snyder: The weather forecast had me worried. Last…

Western Lights on KoloTV

Free and family friendly event returning to downtown Reno….

An elaborate dj booth made of colorful lights set up in a city

Sponsor The Festival

Power the Glow, Reap the Benefits

Sponsoring the Western Lights Festival isn’t just about supporting art—it’s a strategic opportunity. Align your brand with innovation and joy while reaching a diverse audience of locals, tourists, and media. From logo placements to exclusive activations, your investment drives visibility, community goodwill, and a legacy of shared pride in Reno’s creative spirit.

Become a Sponsor

Follow Us On Social Media

To Our Premier Sponsors: Thank You!

Western Lights wouldn’t shine without the incredible support of our premier sponsors. Your commitment helps us keep this festival free and accessible to everyone, transforming downtown Reno into a luminous celebration of art, technology, and community spirit.

Light The Way

Help Us Keep Western Lights Free

We’re inviting you to help us reach our $100,000 fundraising goal. If you believe in accessible art, vibrant public spaces, and bringing our community together, please donate. We need your support to bring Western Lights back in 2027 and beyond!

Donate Now