Top Fall (Fundraiser) Events in Reno and Lake Tahoe

Throughout the Reno and Lake Tahoe area there are so many top fall fundraising events and ways to make a difference while enjoying some of the best food, wine and entertainment in the West. From the 35th Annual Chocolate and Wine Festival at the Hyatt Regency on October 25th to the 4th Annual Ski Ball Fundraiser benefitting the Nevada Ski Team on November 1, at 5:30 p.m. at the Reno Ballroom, these are just two of our favorite annual fall fundraisers that promise a great night on the town, for all the right reasons.

Read on for the details on two of the top fall events in Reno and Lake Tahoe ... and we'll see you there!

35th Annual Tahoe Chocolate and Wine Festival

October 25, 2025 / Hyatt Regency

The 35th Annual Tahoe Chocolate and Wine Festival is an event that celebrates our community and all that we accomplish together. Started by Tahoe Women’s Services, Sierra Community House has continued the legacy of this beloved event, and it remains as their largest fundraiser each year. Join us for an elegant evening at the Hyatt Regency Ballroom, featuring local boutique wineries and talented chocolatiers.

Here's the Schedule of Events:

6:00-7:45: Chocolate and Wine Tasting

Enjoy sampling our beautiful curated Chocolate and Wine Creations.  Food stations are also set around the room for you to enjoy--you won't leave hungry!

7:45-8:00: Program and Live Auction  

Learn more about the incredible work of Sierra Community House and how you can support their mission.

8:30-10:00:  Live Music and Dancing

Come party with Sonido Sueno--Reno’s first live salsa band is turning up the heat! Featuring the city’s top-tier musicians, this electrifying ensemble brings the rhythm, passion, and sabor of Latin music to Northern Nevada!

Get your tickets now as this event always sells out!

4th Annual Nevada Ski Team Denim and Diamonds Ski Ball

Presented by the Nevada Ski Team Boosters, the event's theme, "Denim and Diamonds: Not Your Average Ski Ball," promises an evening of unforgettable fun, philanthropy, and community spirit.

All proceeds from Ski Ball directly benefit Wolf Pack Skiing, supporting scholarships, training opportunities, and expanded resources for student-athletes.

"The Nevada Ski Ball is more than just a fundraiser—it's a celebration of our community's passion and support for Wolf Pack skiing," said Nevada Skiing head coach Cameron Smith. "Every year, this event helps give our athletes the resources they need to compete at the highest level, and we're grateful to everyone who makes it possible."

Tahoe legends Uncle E and John Haines will host the event as emcees and auctioneers alongside an all-star lineup of skiing icons including Daron Rahlves, Tamara McKinney, Franz Weber, Marco Sullivan, Anna Sullivan, Travis Ganong, Marie-Michelle Gagnon, Wayne Wong and more.

The event features gourmet food stations, cocktails, and a Wine & Whiskey Pull. Country music artist Jakota Wass will provide live entertainment, and there will be a silent auction with advanced online bidding available in addition to a live auction featuring season passes, heli-skiing trips, tropical vacations, and more.

General admission tickets are available for $225 and include a welcome gift, dinner, complimentary beer, wine and champagne during the cocktail hour, and complimentary wine during dinner service.

Tickets and sponsorship packages can be purchased as www.nevadaskiing.com/ski-ball-fundraiser.