It looks to be a “scent-sational” and “bee-utiful” summer with the return of the Sierra Nevada Lavender & Honey Festival. In its fourth year, the festival returns to a new location at shady and scenic Idlewild Park in Reno, on Sun., July 10.
With its roots in local agriculture, the festival features all things lavender and honey, along with event-themed food and drink, arts and crafts, music, entertainment, kids’ zone, and more. The relaxing scent of lavender permeates the air, amid the buzz of a community gathering that offers entertainment and education for all.
From its conception, the goal of the festival has been to demonstrate the positive impact of local agriculture on our community — the power of lavender and honey to join farmers, artisans, chefs, entertainers, musicians, local businesses, community organizations, educational institutions, and thousands of attendees to celebrate local food.
After a two-year COVID hiatus, festival organizers were eager to bring the festival back, and it returns with lots of new attractions, in addition to the festival favorites. A honey-tasting booth staffed by the Northern Nevada Beekeepers Association invites attendees to taste the nuances of honey from different honey producers. And bicycles are encouraged for transportation to the festival, as the Downtown Sparks Kiwanis will host a bike valet. The Mason Valley Beekeepers return with the Buzzy Bee Family Zone, with lots of fun and educational activities.
“Entertainment will ‘bee’ especially spectacular this year,” said festival organizer Ann Louhela. “Come for the debut of our entertainment emcee — the one and only Lav’ander Lounge Fairy, played by none other than Mary Bennett of Brüka Theatre. Our opening act will be Brüka’s play The Giving Tree, followed by a day of music from our favorite local bands.”
What else is there to do while you’re at the festival?
“Visit the lavender growers to learn how to grow lavender in your back yard — or a honey producer to find out what makes local honey so much better,” Louhela says. “Visit the dozens of artisan booths, and add some locally made art to your home décor. Say hello to our sponsors and give them thanks, because without their financial support, the festival would not be possible. Soak up the sunshine, watch local theater, quench your thirst with honey wine or lavender lemonade. Play games and hula hoop with the kids, and be thankful that community events are back!”
The festival will be held on Sun., July 10, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., at Idlewild Park, 2055 Idlewild Drive, Reno. More details about the event can be found at the website LavenderAndHoneyFest.com.
