By Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine | August 4, 2025
Hot August Nights rolls into its first Monday today with three major venues firing up engines and excitement across Reno—including a special full-circle moment at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Starting at 3 p.m. today, the main event venue returns to the UNR campus for the first time since 1986. Once just a humble gathering spot nicknamed “Hamburger Haven,” the University now welcomes nearly 1,500 classic cars, live entertainment, a beer garden, and local vendors—marking its transformation into the heart of the nation’s largest classic car celebration.
Monday, August 4 Highlights:
University of Nevada, Reno (Main Venue)
- 3 p.m.: Opening festivities
- Live DJ and vendor zone
- Free nightly entertainment
- Grand Prize Announcement (Opening Weekend Passport Challenge)
- Food trucks, beer garden, and Show-n-Shine galore
Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
- Noon–evening
- Live DJ
- Classic car displays (Show-n-Shine)
- Kick-off of the official Mill Mile Cruise
- Food and retail vendors
Atlantis Resort Casino
- 5–9 p.m.
- Evening Show-n-Shine
- Cruisin’ Craft Fair
- Open cruise route
🎟️ Don’t forget: The Builder’s Showdown kicks off tomorrow (Tuesday) at 10 a.m. inside the Reno Events Center. Watch top builders prep award-winning cars for national competition, then head to UNR for a headline concert by The Spazmatics at 8:15 p.m.
For the most up-to-date calendar and venue info, visit: Hot August Nights Event Schedule
Reflections from Opening Weekend: Virginia City Vibes
While we didn’t make it to the drag races like we’d hoped (a family schedule twist got in the way), we still spent a fantastic Friday afternoon soaking in the opening weekend in Virginia City—a personal highlight for us.
Classic cars lined the wild west streets of this historic mining town, and we had the chance to meet several proud hot rod owners who were more than happy to share stories of restoration, customization, and road trips past. With a scoop of old-fashioned ice cream in hand and the scent of oil and nostalgia in the air, we wandered boardwalks where horsepower met history.
Local saloons and shops buzzed with Hot August Nights energy, reminding us why this event isn’t just a car show—it’s a full cultural celebration spread across communities. Whether you’re coming for the chrome or the atmosphere, this event never fails to deliver on summer magic.
