Birthday Bash

Mark 141 years of statehood this weekend during the Nevada Heritage Celebration. The festivities begin today with the RSVP Carnival, which runs through Oct. 30 at Mills Park in Carson City. The fun continues Oct. 29 with the Nevada Day Parade (pictured) featuring floats, music, marching bands and appearances by local celebrities, such as KOLO News Channel 8 reporter John Tyson, who is this year’s grand marshal. If the weather permits, the parade will begin at 8 a.m. with a hot air balloon launch. The parade route starts at William Street and HIghway 50 and ends at Stewart and Carson streets. After the parade, you can check out some impressive specimens of facial hair during the annual beard contest, which takes place at the steps of the state capitol. Other highlights that day include the 31st annual World Championship Single Jack Drilling Contest and the 22nd annual Chili Feed at the Carson Nugget, 507 N. Carson St. For a full list of events, call 828-2600 or visit www.nevadaday.com.