Celebrating Nevada’s Heritage

Nevada was eagerly pushed into statehood on Oct. 31, 1864, shortly after the discovery of the Comstock Lode proved this territory was worth a damn. This is also the time that American carnivals were emerging as the newest and most exciting entertainment available. This weekend is the time to celebrate both during the Nevada Day Celebration at Mills Park in Carson City. The carnival opens at 4 p.m. on Oct. 26 and runs throughout the weekend. The celebration is highlighted by the Nevada Day Parade, which kicks off with a hot air balloon launch at 8 a.m. on Oct. 28. Immediately following the parade will be the Annual 2006 Nevada Day Beard Contest with awards for the longest, fullest, reddest, whitest, blackest and scruffiest beards of Nevada. So join the festivities and commemorate 142 years of statehood in Carson City this weekend. Call 882-2600 for more information.