Genoa prepares for annual Candy Dance

The 30,000 people expected at this weekend’s Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Fair will arrive in easily more than 10,000 vehicles.

Starting with Highway 395, four miles to the east of Nevada’s oldest settlement, there will be lane closures and shifts as motorists approach Genoa Lane.

“Drivers will not be able to turn from northbound Highway 395 to Genoa Lane between 7a.m. and 7p.m. Saturday and Sunday,” state transportation spokeswoman Meg Ragonese said on Mondy. “Turns from southbound Highway 395 to Genoa Lane will also be advised for local traffic only.”

Southbound Highway 395 will also be reduced to one through lane during the same hours.

“Drivers heading east on Genoa Lane will be able to turn onto southbound Highway 395 but will be prohibited from turning left to northbound Highway 395.”

Getting to Genoa is just half the fun.

Genoa Lane, Foothill and Jacks Valley roads will be closed at the town. There’s plenty of parking off Genoa Lane and Foothill Road.

Parking is $10 in any of the town lots. Shuttles start ferrying visitors into town from the lots at 7 a.m.

The lot off Jacks Valley Road is usually full by the time the fair opens at 9 a.m. and because people park for miles alongside the road, it is difficult to get turned around.

“Drivers should plan extra time to travel through the event area, and are reminded to drive safely and slowly, obeying event-related road and parking closures,” Ragonese said.

Candy Dance will feature more than 400 craft and food booths this year and is the main fundraiser for Nevada’s oldest town.

Candy Dance is a juried show, so only handcrafted items are allowed.

“Anything from homemade toys and Christmas items to jewelry and fine art (will be available),” Town Manager David Qualls said. “As for food, we have a little bit of everything.”