Nevada Day events mark 150 years of statehood

LAS VEGAS — Nevada is marking its 150th anniversary of statehood with ceremonies and parades — including a daytime procession in Las Vegas marking the state holiday and another, hours later, featuring costumed Halloween revelers.

Festivities kicked off with a fly-over by Nevada Army Guard helicopters and a big inflatable helium birthday cake at the head of a parade that featured Gov. Brian Sandoval and thousands of spectators along Fourth Street.

The annual Halloween parade was set later, a few blocks east, on Fremont Street.

City officials say they think it’s the first time Las Vegas has hosted two parades on the same day.

Nevada Day ceremonies — including another parade — were scheduled Saturday in the state capital, Carson City.

The Silver State became a state on Oct. 31, 1864.