You know that sweet spot between late summer chaos and cozy fall vibes? That’s exactly where Nevada County shines brightest. Our calendar is stuffed with horses, art, and good old-fashioned community care. Whether you’re a local looking for your next weekend adventure or a visitor hoping to taste the small-town magic, here’s what’s coming up in the foothills.

Draft Horse Classic & Harvest Fair

This one is a county institution. Think massive Belgian and Clydesdale draft horses pulling carriages with the kind of power that makes your jaw drop, paired with a harvest fair full of local food, crafts, and fall décor. It’s a blend of rural heritage and carnival fun, and it’s the perfect excuse to bring the whole family out. Plus, the Fairgrounds in September? Golden hour photos for days.

When:
September 18–21, 2025

Where:
Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road

Cost:
$10–$85

More Info & Ticket Sales Here

30th Annual Open Studios

Thirty years strong, and it just keeps getting better. Open Studios is where Nevada County’s creative heartbeat really shows itself. The preview exhibit runs at The Center’s Granucci Gallery, with a kick-off party on October 2nd. After that, grab a map and explore artists’ home studios—everything from pottery and painting to jewelry and glasswork. Not only do you get to peek into the creative process, but you’re also supporting the backbone of our local arts scene.

Preview Exhibition:
Sept. 26-Oct. 19
Daily from 12-5pm
Center For The Arts, 314 W. Main Street

Kick‑off Party:
October 2
5 pm–7 pm
Center For The Arts, 314 W. Main Street

Open Studios:
October 11, 12, 18, 19
80+ Locations Across Western Nevada County

RSVP for the Kick-Off Party & Get the Map of Artists Here

SYRCL Annual Yuba River Cleanup

This is hands down one of the most impactful volunteer events of the year. The South Yuba River Citizens League rallies hundreds of locals to clean up our beloved Yuba. Bags of trash disappear, friendships spark over trash grabbers, and the river breathes a little easier. It’s not glamorous work, but it’s good-for-the-soul work—and it leaves a visible mark. Pro tip: bring gloves, water, and your best river shoes.

When:
September 20, 2025
9:00 am–1:00 pm

Where:
Multiple sites across the Yuba River watershed

Cost:
Free!

Sign Up Here

Nevada County doesn’t just “have events”—we live them. From draft horses thundering down the arena, to artists galore at The Center, to trash bags piled high after the South Yuba cleanup, these aren’t just dates on a calendar. They’re the cornerstones of who we are as a community.

So mark your planner, rally your friends, and make sure your weekends this September and October are as full as the foothills themselves.