Virginia City celebrates its mining heritage with mining games, drinking and smoking #BecauseNevada

This is a press release and includes no original reporting.

The historic mountain town of Virginia City, Nev. was born from the Comstock Lode, a discovery of silver ore so rich it has never been surpassed. To honor this mining heritage, the town celebrates with Muckfest: Mining, Whiskey & Cigars, June 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Delta parking lot in the heart of town.

A single-jack competition, offering up a purse of $1,000, gives visitors a chance to experience a day in the life of a Comstock miner. This historic method used to hand drill holes is not for the faint of heart.  Competition registration is $25 and signups are available in advance online or at the event.

A full day of activities is scheduled in the Mining Village at the Delta parking lot, including mining demonstrations and exhibits. In the Whiskey & Cigar Lounge, study the old west’s favorite libations by sampling more than 20 whiskeys. Included in your ticket is a cigar of your choice. Additional cigars from the region are available for purchase. Tickets are $25 and are available in advance online or at the event.

Bring the kids to learn about the mining and reclamation process at the cookie mining station or take them to Virginia City Mining Company where they can test their luck panning for gold or gems. For additional mine tours and exhibits throughout town, stop by the Visitors Center at 86 South C Street for discounted admission to the Chollar Mine, Ponderosa Mine Tour, Virginia City Mining Company, the Comstock Gold Mill and more.

Muckfest: Mining, Whiskey & Cigars is presented by Comstock Mining Inc. and the Comstock Foundation.

For more information on Virginia City, Nev. and Muckfest: Mining, Whiskey & Cigars, visit VisitVirginiaCityNV.com or call the Virginia City Tourism Commission at 775-847-7500.

Muckfest: Mining, Whiskey & Cigars

What: Day of experiencing old Virginia City mining culture, drinking whiskey and smoking cigars
When: Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Delta Saloon parking lot in Virginia City, but also open to the whole downtown corridor
Tickets: Main events are free. Single-Jack Drilling Competition $25 online or in person. Whiskey & Cigar tent is $25 online or in person.