Sparks, NV

Sparks first became a city in 1905. After years of being lumped in with larger surrounding cities such as Reno, Sparks' independent spirit has started to shine. Its approximately 90,000 residents have nicknamed Sparks the "City of Promise," referring to its ability to always grow and improve. The city's talent for keeping the commercial and residential districts separate gives Sparks a reputation as a suitable place both to start a business and raise a family. Its location just minutes from Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Carson City also provides convenience for its residents, whether they need to commute to work or simply love to ski.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

Some of the largest industries in Sparks are construction and trade, with about 250 and 240 companies, respectively. Wholesale trade brings in slightly more revenue overall than does construction. Like many Nevada cities, much of Sparks' economy is also supported by the tourism industry, which includes food service and hospitality. Health care and education round out the list of the most important industries in Sparks overall. The largest employers in Sparks include the following:

• Sparks Nugget Hotel and Casino
• UPS
• Western Nevada Supply Company
• Wal-Mart
• Charles River Laboratories
• Q & D Construction

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

Victorian Square is located near the area's older downtown commercial district. Businesses continue to grow and expand in this area of Sparks. The residential area just north of Victorian Square is known for being as old as the square itself. This neighborhood is dotted with older homes that still retain their historic beauty. Homes around Vista Boulevard, Wingfield Springs, Kiley Ranch, and Spanish Springs are tucked away in master-planned communities; these are the newer homes in Sparks.

EVENTS

• Top O' the Mornin' Fun Run: This event occurs on the weekend closest to St. Patrick's Day. It includes a two-mile run or walk and a 10K timed run for the more serious athletes in Sparks.
• Hometowne Farmers Market: This weekly event occurs every Thursday afternoon from June until August. Fresh flowers, fruit, vegetables, and art are the main products available at this market.
• Star Spangled Sparks: This Fourth of July event offers a kite-flying competition, assorted arts and crafts, food, and, of course, fireworks.
• Moonlight Run at the Marina: This midsummer two-mile run or walk is hosted annually to raise money for city charities.
• Mark Wellman's Adventure Day: This day, typically in July or August, was established especially for residents with disabilities. Events include kayaking lessons, a rock-climbing wall, sailing, and more, all altered to suit those with disabilities.
• Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off: This festival marks the end of summer each year, featuring live music, arts and crafts areas, clowns, and a rib cook-off. About half a million people attend this event each year.

FOR VISITORS

• Sparks Marina: This 80-acre area offers swimming, fishing, boating, sightseeing, and scuba diving to residents of Sparks. It is often the venue for the city's events.
• Sparks Heritage Museum: Interesting exhibits and artifacts remind visitors of Sparks' past, starting with its foundation in the early 20th century. Even the building is a throwback to the past-it was built in 1931 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• City parks: Sparks has about 50 parks, many with amenities such as pools, picnic areas, sports courts, dog parks, skateboard parks, and rodeo arenas. The new Golden Eagle Regional Park is just one example, with 140 acres of family-friendly space.
• Golf: The Resort at Red Hawk provides an upscale area to play 36 holes of golf.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

• Weekly Wonders: This class is free to residents at the Larry D. Johnson Community Center. Every Thursday, it focuses on improving students' artistic abilities via creative projects.
• Imaginaction: This museum is another locale where Sparks residents of all ages can gather to learn about art and the importance of creativity.

FAMILY FUN

• Western Village Inn and Casino: Located west of the Sparks Marina, this casino provides unique water views, lodging, and three restaurants.
• Legends at Sparks Marina: This shopping center boasts one million square feet of entertainment, dining, and shopping. An IMAX theater and a bowling alley provide fun for visitors and locals alike.
• Wild Island Family Adventure Park: This park is appropriate for all ages. It includes waterslides, bowling, miniature golf, go-karts, arcade games, and more.

FUN FACTS

• Sparks has a newspaper that was established in 1910 called the Daily Sparks Tribune.
• The city was originally created in 1905 at the Southern Pacific Railway Company's request. Before that time, it was made up of ranches and marshes.