The Genoa Candy Dance is a historical event famous for its homemade candy and features more than 300 craft, art, and food vendors. Tens of thousands of attendees flock to this fun-filled, two-day affair annually, and this year should be no exception.
The candy dance in Genoa had humble beginnings. In 1919, townswomen held a dinner and fundraiser to pay for the purchase of streetlights to brighten the small town in Nevada. They crafted homemade candy — including various kinds of brittles and taffies, divinity, penuche, and the all-time favorite, fudge — and passed it out during the dance as an incentive for couples to attend. The first event was such a success that it has continued annually for more than 100 years.
The Genoa Candy Dance still holds true to being a fundraiser for the town to cover general costs such as electricity, events, and more. The candy dance would not be possible without the efforts of many volunteers who give their time and energy each year. Genoa Candy Dance organizers still are accepting volunteers. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can sign up here.
Along with the traditional dinner, dance, and candy, since 1974 the candy dance in Genoa has boasted a large arts and crafts fair. It’s known as one of the greatest craft fairs in Northern Nevada, drawing artisans and visitors from around the country. Another attraction of the candy dance is Genoa’s quaint charm (the town was Nevada’s first settlement). Genoa is set among steep mountains and mature landscaping and features some buildings crafted in a late-Victorian architectural style.
Admission to the arts and crafts fair is free, but tickets are required to attend the traditional dinner-dance. The dining space is limited so purchase your tickets to the dinner-dance soon. Participants can purchase tickets in person at Genoa’s town office, online, or by phone. For an online purchase, visit here and to make a phone purchase, call 775-782-8696 between 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Mon. – Fri.
The event begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25 and runs through 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25. The dinner is held 4:30 – 10 p.m. on Saturday, with dinner service starting at 5:30 p.m. and accompanied by live music. For details about the event, visit here.
Genoa is just an hour’s drive from Reno. Special parking and shuttles are available to make the trip easier.
Don’t miss out on this historic, unique, and pleasure-filled event!
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