Rollin’ on the River

It’s not a snowless Peavine Mountain that indicates the true start of summer in Reno. When you can head to Wingfield Park every Friday at 5:30 p.m. and are treated to a free evening of live music at Rollin’ on the River, it’s safe to say summer has arrived.

The Reno News & Review has been putting on this concert series along the Truckee for 12 years. Mixing the local with the national, concert-goers have heard everything from bluegrass to Latin, from Michelle Shocked to Charlie Musselwhite to Los Straitjackets. This year, each night features a different genre, be it blues, rock, country, or something completely different (i.e. Red Elvises, page 10).

Each concert is free and is held every Friday from June 13 through Aug 1. Seats—OK, patches of grass—are first-come, first-served. The Reno Bike Project is holding a free, secure bike valet across the river in West Street Plaza, so reduce traffic, carbon emissions and body weight by riding your bike to the park.

It’s a relaxed atmosphere, but there are a few “don’ts” we suppose we should say. Word is they’re cracking down on people who bring in alcohol from the outside, though beer will be sold in the park, along with other digestibles. We love pets and glass bottles, too, but leave them at home. Low-back chairs only, please, lest everyone scream “Down in front!” at you, and that’s just embarrassing. Oh, and no crawling onstage, looking up women’s skirts, jumping naked in the river or picking your nose. Other than that … enjoy!