Reno, Nevada’s annual July arts and culture festival, Artown, is planning for 2010 and its 15th anniversary expanding even more than in 2009 and transforming Reno into a hub of arts and culture. More than 60 percent of the monthlong festival’s events are free to the public and there are more than 400 events to choose from. Presented in locations throughout Reno, including a downtown park amphitheater bordered by the Truckee River, Artown events are presented by more than 100 partners from throughout the community.
“July provides us an incredible opportunity to give to our community during a time when we all needed a little lifting of spirits,” Beth Macmillan, executive director of Artown, said. “Morale was visibly elevated during Artown events with attendees dancing, laughing and enjoying summer with family and friends. That’s the true reward of Artown and one that resonates with our mission statement."
Noted by the National Endowment for the Arts as one of the most comprehensive art festivals in the country, Artown attracts more than 300,000 attendees annually with world-class entertainment from names such as Richie Havens, The Funk Brothers, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Harlem Gospel Choir, Aspen Santa Fe Dance, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, American Ballet Theater, Herbie Hancock and Hell’s Kitchen Dance with Mikhail Baryshnikov.