TMFR South Reno parade - Photo

With decked-out engines, Santa Claus, and a toy drive, Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue (TMFR) said their holiday parades have it all.

"This is an opportunity for us to get out and meet the community and bring some holiday cheer," said TMFR Chief Richard Edwards.

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue is holding its 4th Fire Engine Parade of the season in South Reno.

Chief Edwards said the parades - which are new for this holiday season - give the community a chance to do something they don't get the chance to do often.

"Most people don't interact with the fire department except when they call 911," he said, "and that's a very small percentage of our population."

TMFR wasn't alone on their trek through South Reno. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office followed close behind.

Right behind the decked-out fire engine, a TMFR pickup hauls a trailer for people to donate toys for children and gift cards for teens.

"We'll stop or slow down, and folks can just bring their toys out, and we'll be happy to collect them," Chief Edwards said.

"I think that's really cool. It's a good way to help the community," said Lucy, a child who watched the South Reno parade.

Each parade runs from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., starting and ending at the nearest TMFR station. Once it's over, the community is invited to stop by the station to meet their first responders.

"Come by the firehouse, have a cup of hot chocolate, bring an unwrapped toy, or just come by and meet the firefighters," said Chief Edwards.

TMFR said the parades are a great start to the holiday season. There's one more scheduled for December 15 in Verdi and Mogul. 

You can also donate toys, gift cards, or cash at any of the following locations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday:

  • TMFR Headquarters, 3663 Barron Way, Reno
  • Station 32, 1240 East Lake Blvd., Washoe Valley
  • Station 33, 470 Foothill Road, Reno
  • Station 36, 13500 Thomas Creek Rd., Reno
  • Station 37, 3255 Hidden Valley Dr., Reno
  • Station 39, 4000 Joy Lake Rd., Reno
  • Station 40, 10201 W 4th St, Mogul
  • Station 42, 3680 Diamond Peak Dr., Reno
  • Station 44, 10575 Silver Lake Blvd., Stead
  • Station 45, 5841 Sun Valley Blvd., Sun Valley
  • Station 46, 500 Rockwell Blvd., Spanish Springs