Locals' Feature: Jesse James Ziegler, Reno's Poet Laureate

Locals' Feature: Jesse James Ziegler, Reno's Poet Laureate

Jesse James Ziegler and his wife, Amanda McHenry at Shim's Tavern in Reno

Meet Jesse James Ziegler, Reno's Poet Laureate. Jesse grew up in Grass Valley, California, and now lives in Reno. One of his main goals among Reno’s famously artistic community was to become Poet Laureate. He made his dream come true, and then some!

Group photo of participants in Monday Night Poetry at Shim's Tavern in Reno

Jesse James Ziegler, Reno's Poet Laureate, and an orange and yellow pet parrot on his shoulder

Jesse James Ziegler performing open mic spoken word poetry

Jesse is also the Creative Director of Reno’s Monday Night Poetry and True Colors Poetry. Monday Night Poetry happens at Reno’s Shim’s Tavern which, according to Jesse, is home to the world’s best non-alcohol Guinness beer, hands down—or up (all hail a tasty non-alcohol beer!) If you’re in Reno for an extended stay (always a good idea), head to a Monday Night Poetry session. Everyone is welcome, whether you just want to sit, sip, and listen to poetry or get up and share your own words.

Photo of Lake Tahoe turquoise waters taken by Jesse James Ziegler

Photo of Reno's Love, Believe, Home sculpture in Reno by Jesse James Ziegler

In his spare time, Jesse finds inspiration in Reno's beautiful mountain and desert landscape, as well as the numerous artistic enclaves in the city. As he explores and finds inspiration in and around Reno he enjoys taking pictures.

Listen to our podcast interview with Jesse, where he shares his favorite places to go outdoors for poetic inspiration in Reno (there are a lot of choices!) and discusses the thriving creative community—from Burning Man to less known enclaves where art is always percolating.

Follow Jesse James Ziegler, @sidewayseightprojects

Listen to Weekend Sherpa's podcast Take It Outside, episode 66, "From Southeast Asia to Reno Tahoe"

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View
  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View
  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View
  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View