A ghoulish banjo player guards a graveyard at the southeast corner of the Governor’s Mansion in Carson City on Oct. 18.
Photo by Scott Neuffer.
With a contentious election in the background, those making the trek to the Governor’s Mansion in Carson City on Oct. 31 (5-8 p.m.) will find a Halloween celebration that unites community members and trick-or-treaters in the spirit of fun.
“The First Lady and I are delighted to welcome trick-or-treaters and their families to the Governor’s Mansion again this year,” said Gov. Joe Lombardo. “We look forward to seeing some great costumes, taking festive photos, and participating in this special Nevada tradition with our neighbors.”
Built in 1909 in the classical revival style, the Governor’s Mansion is located at 606 Mountain St. and is already decorated for the occasion. The governor and First Lady Donna Lombardo will be handing out candy to celebrants, who could make a sizable crowd. Kristen Dillard, executive coordinator of the mansion, estimated a turnout of 1,500 but said there’s usually too many people to count.
“The line (to greet the governor) opens at five and closes at eight, and it’s down the street the whole time,” Dillard said. “It’s a full celebration, for sure.”
In her tenure, Dillard has seen three governors from across the political spectrum — Brian Sandoval, Steve Sisolak and now Lombardo — participate in what has become an annual tradition in Carson City.
Last year, community service clubs, local businesses and grocery stores donated more than 1,300 pounds of candy for the event, and Dillard said there could be more candy this year.
“I haven’t weighed it yet, but I think we’re going to beat that,” she said. “If not, we’ll be right there. There is a lot of candy so far.”
Dillard believed the Halloween tradition started with former Gov. Kenny Guinn, who was in office from 1999 to 2007. She said the event is supported by Democrats and Republicans.
“It’s such a bipartisan effort — a community event, not a political event,” she said. “Both parties step up every year.”
And the celebration makes Nevada unique, she explained.
“It’s an opportunity for everyone, kids, parents, whoever, to come and get some time at the Governor’s Mansion,” Dillard said. “You know, not many states are that accessible.”
She expanded: “It’s just that kind of evening where everyone is welcome.”
Jeannette Miller, a 50-year Carson resident now living in Sparks, said she reemembers the tradition going back to Gov. Mike O’Callaghan.