Rev up your engines, classic car lovers—the nation’s premier nostalgic car event is rolling into Reno, Nevada, August 1–10, 2025, for its 39th year! With over 6,000 registered participants and more than 500,000 attendees expected, Hot August Nights is the ultimate celebration of classic car culture and retro vibes.
This year, the event is shifting gears with exciting updates, including a new venue and fresh events to make the 10-day festival even more memorable.
A Homecoming to Remember
In a move rich with history, Hot August Nights is heading back to its roots. While the Grand Sierra Resort undergoes a billion-dollar transformation, the main venue will relocate to the University of Nevada campus, where the event first began in 1986. This nostalgic return brings new energy and a chance for attendees to cruise through downtown Reno and under the iconic arch as part of a new Supercruise route.
The kickoff weekend, beginning Friday, August 1, promises to rev up the excitement with Show-n-Shines at The J Resort, Baldini’s Sports Casino, and Virginia City, along with drag racing at the Nugget, concerts, and the return of the Cruisin’ for a Cure event at Bonanza Casino.
New Features and Fan Favorites
Car lovers, builders, and fans alike have plenty to look forward to this year:
- Builders Showdown: Head to Big Boys Toy Store to watch top professional and home builders compete for cash prizes and ultimate bragging rights.
- Youth Automotive Challenge: Young gearheads (21 and under) can showcase their skills for a chance at scholarships and prizes totaling $15,000. The grand prize? A $5,000 scholarship! (Registration closes July 1, 2025.)
- Show-n-Shines & Prizes: Daily competitions across venues will award over $80,000 in prizes.
- MAG Auctions: Held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, this auction is a treasure trove for car enthusiasts.
VIP Perks and Entertainment
Looking to elevate your experience? Exclusive VIP packages offer prime seating, unlimited beverages, and tasty snacks at the University of Nevada and Sparks venues. Options include the Garage, Headlight Lounge, and the Burnout Bar, ensuring you enjoy every moment in style.
Hot August Nights isn’t just about cars—it’s also a music lover’s dream. Free nightly concerts at the University of Nevada and Nugget Events Center feature iconic performers like Grand Funk Railroad, the Commodores, and more.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re cruising down memory lane or rocking out to the hits of the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, Hot August Nights promises something for everyone. Shuttle services make it easy to hop between venues, and participant registration opens on August 1.
For a full schedule and event updates, visit HotAugustNights.net and follow them on social media.
VIP RESERVED EXPERIENCES
Returning for 2025, are reserved experiences providing access to enhanced amenities at the University of Nevada and Sparks venues. All tickets and table options are available for purchase at HotAugustNights.net.
· The Garage at the University of Nevada presented by D&S Towis located in prime viewing of the entertainment stage at the University and includes unlimited beverages and pub snacks. Individual tickets and reserved tables for eight are available.
· The Headlight Lounge offers reserved table seating located in the front area of the main entertainment stage at the University and includes dinner and unlimited beverages.
· In Sparks, get up close with the Drag Races presented by AMSOIL with theBurnout Bar presented by Big O Tires with reserved tables and individual ticket options – both options include two (2) beverages and pub snacks.
· The Garage at the Nugget presented by Quick Space offers individual tickets that include unlimited beverages and pub snacks. Another option is to purchase tickets to secure a seat for the Sparks nightly entrainment taking place at the Nugget Events Center.
· The Insiders Club is reserved parking for registered participants and is available at the University with covered and uncovered options and in downtown Sparks.
ENTERTAINMENT
Hot August Nights offers free nightly concerts featuring top-name entertainment at two venues starting at 8:15 p.m. nightly.
· Tuesday, Aug. 5 – Spazmatics
· Wednesday, Aug. 6 – The Legends of Classic Rock
· Thursday, Aug. 7 – To be announced
· Friday, Aug. 8 – Grand Funk Railroad
· Saturday, Aug. 9 – To be announced
· Wednesday, Aug. 6 – New Wave Crave
· Thursday, Aug. 7 – Boogie Knights
· Friday, Aug. 8 – To be announced
· Saturday, Aug. 9 – Commodores
Why It Matters
Since its inception in 1986, Hot August Nights has been more than just a car show—it’s a celebration of nostalgia, community, and the timeless joy of classic cars. With an estimated $100 million economic impact, it’s also the biggest event in the Reno-Tahoe region, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the magic.
Mark your calendars and prepare to be transported to a world where chrome gleams, engines roar, and rock ‘n’ roll fills the air. See you in Reno this August!
