Las Vegas is constantly changing so keep up to date with these recently announced Vegas Happenings.
NOVEMBER 2024 HAPPENINGS
SAHARA REPLACING POKER ROOM WITH SLOTS
Sahara will close its poker room on November 16, replacing its footprint on the casino floor with more slots. When the new area opens in mid-December, the enhanced offerings will include dedicated slot banks where players can play the newest games from top gaming content providers.
FREMONT EXPERIENCE’S NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
If you’re looking for an ideal party destination for New Year’s Eve — Fremont Street Experience has you covered with seven big names in music taking over the streets of Las Vegas. NYE Time of Your Life Celebration will hand the mic to Flo Rida, LOCASH, Bow Wow, 3OH!3, Dylan Marlowe, Trick Daddy and Mike Jones. The event will be hosted by the mayor of Las Vegas, featuring the return of the countdown to the New Year with an epic display of pyrotechnics and digital fireworks on the world’s longest digital screen.
MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL & MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL SIGN AGREEMENT TO LAUNCH W LAS VEGAS
MGM Resorts International and Marriott International announced plans to convert the Delano to the W Hotels brand within the Marriott Bonvoy® portfolio, continuing the brand’s storied evolution. Anticipated to complete its conversion later this year, W Las Vegas marks the latest step in the companies’ long-term strategic licensing agreement announced in July 2023. Located on the Mandalay Bay Campus, the property is slated to officially join the W Hotels portfolio later this year, with additional plans for the property to be announced in the future. With the addition of W Las Vegas, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy will encompass 12 destinations on the Las Vegas Strip, including Bellagio, ARIA Resort & Casino, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, among others.
YARD HOUSE OPENS AT SUNSET STATION
Yard House’s newest location opened at Sunset Station on October 27. Similar to other locations, the new Yard House features an expansive bar with 90 taps of American craft and imported beers. The menu features more than 100 made-from-scratch items, including gluten-sensitive, vegan and vegetarian options. Yard House also has locations at Red Rock, Town Square and The Linq Promenade.
VENETIAN GETTING A FOOD HALL
The Venetian Resort is opening a new food hall with big names next year. The Via Via food hall will open in the former quick-service dining section near the Grand Colonnade area of the resort’s casino floor in mid-2025. Its biggest get is the second Las Vegas location of All’Antico Vinaio, the sandwich shop based in Florence, Italy known for its square slices of schiacciata bread, and sandwiches piled with cured meats and cheeses. James Beard Award-nominated chef Mason Hereford will open two of his New Orleans restaurants in the food hall. Turkey and the Wolf will debut at Via Via with oversized braised collard green sandwiches and empanadas stuffed with chicken pot pie, while Molly’s Rise and Shine will offer quick-service breakfast options. Other restaurants joining the food hall include Los Angeles hot chicken restaurant Howlin’ Ray’s, New York’s Scarr’s Pizza, izakaya and noodle shop Ivan Ramen, and cocktail bar Close Company — a new bar from the team behind Death & Co.
SANTA FE STATION NAMED LUCKIEST CASINO IN LAS VEGAS
New data from Online United States Casinos ranks some of Las Vegas’ luckiest casinos, with Santa Fe Station Hotel & Casino taking the top spot. The research found that out of Santa Fe Station’s 544 reviews, 61 of those, or 11.23 percent, mentioned something about luck. That was just one percent higher than the casino that ranked second, Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall. Gold Coast Hotel & Casino, Suncoast Hotel & Casino, and Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa rounded out the top five. Website analysts looked at every casino listed on Yelp in Las Vegas, where they searched for keywords like ‘lucky,’ ‘luck,’ ‘win,’ ‘winner,’ ‘won,’ or ‘jackpot’ for each one. Based on how many total reviews that casino got and the number of times the keywords showed up was how each property was ranked, according to researchers. Casinos with less than 400 reviews were excluded to avoid skewing results.
NEW EXHIBIT AT MOB MUSEUM
The Mob Museum unveiled a redesigned exhibit titled “The Mob in pop culture.” It’s now on display on the first floor of the museum and features artifacts, costumes, and images of organized crime in American pop culture. The exhibit includes items from TV shows and movies like The Godfather, Casino, and Pulp Fiction.
SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES SECOND VENUE
Sphere Entertainment, the company behind Sphere Las Vegas, announced plans for a new venue in Abu Dhabi. The company says it will work with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism to build a second Sphere in the United Arab Emirates’ capital city that will echo the scale of the 20,000-seat venue in Las Vegas. Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the Sphere and fund construction. Sphere Entertainment’s team will provide services for development, construction and pre-opening. Once the venue is open, Sphere Entertainment says it expects to receive annual fees for creative and artistic content licensing and operations support.
LUXURY ICE RINK COMING TO FONTAINEBLEAU
The Fontainebleau is getting into the holiday spirit. The casino recently announced their plans to transform into a ‘Winter Wonderland.’ The festivities include the grand opening of the Oasis Ice Rink, the largest real ice rink on the Strip, on Wednesday, November 27. Ice Rink will be comprised of two rinks spanning nearly 8,000 square feet, allowing for both public skating and private group holiday events. The holiday village on ice will include festive brand activations by Veuve Clicquot, communal firepit rentals, merry photo moments, cozy holiday cabanas, seasonal lite bites and cocktails, and holiday movie showings, rink-side. The Oasis Ice Rink experience will be open seven days per week, with admission starting at $25. Skating fee, inclusive of skate rental, is available for purchase on-site for $35. Monday through Thursday, Nevada locals with a valid ID as well as military members and first responders will have the chance to receive a special price of $30. For more information or to purchase tickets visit their website.
BAZAAR MEAT RELOCATING
Bazaar Meat, the Las Vegas restaurant of acclaimed chef José Andrés, is relocating from the Sahara to the Palazzo next year. Bazaar Meat opened at the Sahara back in 2014, when the resort was known as SLS Las Vegas. The restaurant is described as an “off-the-charts interpretation of a steakhouse,” featuring steaks, poultry, seafood and vegetables. Sahara Las Vegas confirmed it is working to finalize an agreement for a new culinary destination that will take Bazaar Meat’s place.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S ‘MYSTERE DREAMS AVE’ BECOMES PERMANENT
An iconic Cirque du Soleil show will become a permanent part of Las Vegas. ‘Mystère Dreams Ave’ will be the new name of the main entrance from Las Vegas Boulevard to the Treasure Island Resort. The change honors Mystère’s incredible 30-year run at the Las Vegas Strip hotel where they just celebrated their 14,000 performance.
RED DOOR ESCAPE ROOM OPENS
The Red Door Escape Room opened at the Grand Bazar Shops on Saturday, October 5. The facility offers a fully immersive experience using creative ways to escape traditional escape rooms. Participants are challenged to find hidden clues to escape from a course of doors in less than 45 minutes. The escape rooms combine modern technology with redesigned puzzles that will take guests to new heights. It requires teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills to solve the hidden messages in puzzles. The experience is fast-paced and has many skill levels. Initially, there are five games and two more are coming later this year for a total of seven. No phones are allowed.
VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS LAUNCH OFFICIAL TEAM APP
The Vegas Golden Knights have launched their own official team app which is now available in the iOS App Store. A Google Play version will be coming soon. Team officials describe the app as a one-stop destination for tickets, team news, arena information and more. It will also serve as way to access KnightTime+, the Golden Knights’ streaming platform for games and other content. In addition to tickets and streaming, fans can use the app to get maps for T-Mobile Arena, play a daily word game, and make predictions on game results, scoring and stars of the game before puck drops. Future updates will include the ability to conduct cashless transactions and redeem season ticket member benefits.
DEBBIE REYNOLDS’ ICONIC “DEBBIE” SIGN RELIT AT NEON MUSEUM
The iconic “Debbie” sign from the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Hotel and Casino Museum was relit at the Neon Museum on October 9. The 24-foot-long fuchsia sign was restored back in July. Reynolds, known for her longstanding Las Vegas legacy and multifaceted career in entertainment, moved to Las Vegas in 1962 with her children, Carrie and Todd Fisher.
MODERNIZATION PLAN PROPOSES OVERHAULS FOR LAS VEGAS AIRPORT
Officials in charge of Las Vegas’ commercial airport have proposed an overhaul and expansion of its two terminals. The plan includes updated waiting areas, more food and retail options, and additions to the A and C gates. Terminal 1 will be expanded by demolishing the “cluster” building concourses and replacing them with a new “pier-design” concept. This will offer more gates, larger waiting areas and higher ceilings. The existing Terminal 1 layout has room for 39 gates, but the proposed facility could add 26 new gates. Officials also proposed renaming Terminal 3 as Terminal 2 and overhauling the guest ticketing, baggage handling and passenger circulation areas. For the roads to the airport, they want to add terminal-to-terminal flyover roads that would support a one-way motion of airport traffic. There would be two “multimodal centers” providing access to rideshare, public transportation and employee parking.
ROLLER SKATING ON THE STRIP
Strip-goers can boogie-down during the winter months with a ’70s themed roller skating rink taking over TAO Beach Dayclub. The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and Tao Group Hospitality are bringing Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace to TAO Beach Dayclub. The experience allows roller skating fans to the enjoy a 3,250 square foot skating rink that covers the venue’s two pools. Roller skating will take place Thursday through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. starting in November and running through early 2025. The experience is open to all ages and will include special programming for 21 years of age and older. Guests may bring their skates or rent them at the venue.
OCTOBER 2024 HAPPENINGS
NEW ITALIAN RESTAURANT OPENING AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Caesars Entertainment and Tao Group Hospitality announced they will introduce Caramella, a restaurant and lounge, at Planet Hollywood this winter. Caramella will offer original takes on Italian favorites, pasta, and steaks and chops served Tuscan-style. The decor and design will be inspired by 1970’s Italy and feature views of the Strip. The restaurant will be located on the Mezzanine level in the space formerly occupied by Koi Restaurant and Lounge, next to Criss Angel Theater.
SAMMY HAGAR TO RECEIVE KEY TO LAS VEGAS STRIP
Sammy Hagar the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, philanthropist, and entrepreneur will be celebrated with a prestigious Key to the Las Vegas Strip, recognizing his profound economic and charitable impact in Clark County. The ceremony will be held at Cabo Wabo Cantina at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 4. This is the celebration of the 15th anniversary of Cabo Wabo Cantina in Las Vegas and Hagar’s 77th birthday. Hagar will celebrate by bringing his famed “Birthday Bash” to Vegas for the very first time with two sold-out shows at Palms Casino Resort. Hagar has donated more than $650,000 to various local organizations and he makes donations regularly to the greater community through profits from his Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum restaurant at Harry Reid International Airport. The exclusive fan event is from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $55 per person and include prime ceremony viewing and two complimentary cocktails made with Hagar’s spirits.
NEON CITY FESTIVAL COMING TO DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS
Downtown Las Vegas will be home to a new free music and culinary event this fall. The Neon City Festival will take place November 22 to 24. Created by Derek Stevens, the Neon City Festival will feature a large sprawling footprint, headliner talent, diverse food and beverage offerings, and more. Featured headliners for the festival include Alison Wonderland, Neon Trees, Russell Dickerson and Seven Lions.
MARQUEE DAYCLUB BRINGS BACK DAYCLUB DOME
Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan announced plans to resurrect its iconic “Marquee Dayclub Dome” to keep the daytime pool parties going throughout the 2024-2025 Fall and Winter seasons. Vegas pool party season typically ends by mid-to-late October when cooler weather arrives, but the 23,000-square-foot orb placed on top of the rooftop dayclub will ensure that summer never ends at Marquee. The dome rises over 50 feet tall and covers the full pool deck to provide shelter from precipitation and desert winds. Large heaters will maintain an air temperature of 85 degrees and water temperature of 90 degrees throughout the colder seasons. Marquee Dayclub Dome returns October 12.
MGM RESORTS ANNOUNCES DEAL TO DOUBLE SOLAR ENERGY ACCESS
MGM Resorts said it will lease electricity from a solar farm in Nevada that will double its access to renewable energy. The company announced that it signed a power purchase agreement with Escape Solar, which will build a facility in Lincoln County. The solar farm is expected to combine a 115-megawatt solar facility with a state-of-the-art battery storage system. Operations are set to begin in early 2026. MGM says it currently uses solar energy for 90% of its total daytime needs at its Las Vegas properties. This new agreement will push that use to 100%, according to the company, and the battery storage will extend the use of renewable power into the late afternoons and early evenings.
BLACK LAGOON HALLOWEEN POP-UP BAR IS BACK
Returning for its fifth year, the Black Lagoon Halloween Pop-up Bar will once again be serving up an assortment of eerie, spook-themed cocktails. This year, the pop-up bar is possessing Evel Pie on Fremont Street, transforming the pizza joint into a spine-chilling haunt. You can experience bewitchingly curated libations from October 4 through November 1 at Evel Pie at 508 Fremont Street.
GOLDEN KNIGHTS-THEMED RESTAURANT OPENS INSIDE AIRPORT
Golden Knights fans have a new spot to visit while waiting to catch a flight. Located inside the D gates, Vegas Born Bar & Grill features breakfast, bar bits, pizza, hamburgers and salads, plus beer on tap and a full bar. There is also plenty of televisions to catch the Golden Knights in action once the season starts.
PLANNING APPROVED FOR NEW DOWNTOWN ART MUSEUM
The Las Vegas City Council approved plans for a new art museum to be build in the heart of downtown. Council members approved the sale of 1.5 acres of land in Symphony Park for the construction of the museum. Las Vegas has been without a standalone art museum since the previous Museum of Art closed in 2009. Under the proposal, a three-story art museum would cover about 90,000 square feet. The total cost of the project is expected to be $150 million. The museum would feature three exhibition spaces, an outdoor public area, space for exhibition staging, a cafe and a gift shop. Construction is expected to start no later than February 2027 and will be completed by the end of 2028.
MOKBAR OPENS AT CAESARS PALACE THIS FALL
Mokbar by Esther Choi is set to open inside the Forum Food Hall at Caesars Palace this fall. The quick service establishment will combine traditional and modern takes on Korean cuisine. Mokbar marks Esther Choi’s fifth restaurant.
SPHERE REDUCES SOUND
Sphere has promised residents of nearby Park Towers at Hughes Center that it will turn down the volume on its robust XO Audio system that premiered on July 4. The sound will be capped at 85 decibels on “waiver days,” and make a two-week notice of high-volume events to Park Tower residents. The heightened sound will only be allowed from 9 a.m to 11:30 p.m. on those days, with the exception of New Year’s Eve, when the noise can go until 1 a.m.
FREAKLING BROS. RETURNS WITH HAUNTING EXPERIENCE AT NEW LOCATION
A beloved Halloween experience is back from the dead and ready to make its grand return to Las Vegas. Freakling Bros. Horror Shows announced their return, starting Friday, October 4, for its 31st year after a hiatus last Halloween season. Following opening night, the attraction will be open on the following nights: October 4-6; October 10-13 and October 15-31. Fans can expect three experiences including Nevada’s first and only R-rated attraction, Gates of Hell, as well as the experimental COVEN of 13 and the classic Castle Vampyre. This year, thrill seekers can head to their new location at Desert Breeze Park near Spring Mountain Road and Durango Drive.
BALLY’S CORPORATION AND PALMS CASINO RESORT ANNOUNCE NEW STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Bally’s Corporation and Palms Casino Resort announced a strategic partnership offering Bally Rewards members the ability to earn travel rewards at Palms in Las Vegas. This collaboration aims to enhance the gaming experience for qualified Bally Rewards members to cash in on trips to Palms in Las Vegas. Bally’s Corporation and Palms Casino Resort are initially focusing on travel getaways for Bally Rewards members, but they plan to potentially broaden their partnership in the future. By combining the strengths of these two leading companies, they aim to eventually enhance the gaming experience for their guests through tier matching, tournament invitations, and annual trips.
CIRCA ADDING MORE ROOMS
Circa, the first ground-up casino built in the downtown Las Vegas area since 1980, will add 106 rooms, including four suites, in late October. The accommodations will be developed on four floors that were shelled out when the property was first built so they could see how customers responded to different product options. After about three years in business, Circa has learned that their highest demand product is the sunset suite – a nearly 1,200 square foot western facing suite. The new rooms are the third phase of development for Circa. The second phase was its ballroom and meeting space which opened in September 2022. Three other floors are also shelled out for future development.
SHOEY BAR RETURNS FOR FORMULA 1
MGM Resorts International is gearing up for the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2024 with the return of the Shoey Bar at Bellagio. The wildly popular tribute to one of sports’ most iconic celebrations: drinking from a shoe, returns November 21-23 during race week festivities. The Shoey Bar is back with a newly designed gold shoe, music, cocktails, merchandise and a photo op to capture the race-weekend excitement. New this year, fans can get ramped up for the race long before event weekend with a limited-edition Golden Shoey promotion for Bellagio Fountain Club (BFC) package buyers. Each fan who purchases a BFC package from September 1-30 will receive an exclusive Golden Shoey, sure to become a highly sought-after collector’s piece with only 300 being produced for 2024. Throughout event weekend the Shoey Bar will feature 2,500 striking new golden collectible shoes, distinctly different from the limited-edition Golden Shoey design. Complete with a custom insert and filled with a specially crafted Red Bull cocktail, the exclusive design offers returning fans a chance to collect a meaningful piece of memorabilia that embodies the spirit of this year’s event.The 2024 Shoey Bar will introduce Shoey shot glasses, miniature ceramic shoe replicas packaged in a tiny shoe box, as a perfect keepsake. For those looking to celebrate race week with friends, the “Shoe-Ski” offers a champion’s twist on the classic shotski, allowing two to four guests to toast to victory or simply toast to the moment. The Shoey Bar also will feature extended hours this year, giving guests more time to enjoy the activation before heading to the race only steps away along The Strip.
SEPTEMBER 2024 HAPPENINGS
PARIS CELEBRATING 25TH ANNIVERSARY
Paris Las Vegas kicked off its month-long celebration for its 25th anniversary. The resort first opened its doors on September 1, 1999. The 25th anniversary celebration coincides with the completion of the Versailles Tower renovation. A special cocktail called the Joyeux Anniversaire is available until September 15 at Montecristo Cigar Bar, Le Central and Gustav’s. The Bedford by Martha Stewart, Gordon Ramsay Steak, Nobu and Vanderpump a Paris will offer a prix fixe menu until September 15. The Eiffel Tower and High Roller Observation Wheel will feature custom light shows. Players can also get a commemorative $25 casino chip on tables.
DATE SET FOR TROPICANA IMPLOSION
The Tropicana is set to be imploded at 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9, pending approvals. Before the implosion, Bally’s and the Oakland Athletics will host a commemorative event featuring a drone and fireworks display. The implosion will cap off the demolition of the historic property which began shortly after it closed in April.
FREE FAN EXPERIENCE ANNOUNCED FOR LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX
A free fan experience will take over the north end of the Strip for the Las Vegas Grand Prix this fall. The F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience will be held on Las Vegas Boulevard across from Wynn Las Vegas on November 22 and 23. Formula One fans will be able to dive into the world of the racing circuit with F1 and F1 ACADEMY team appearances, live entertainment, local food trucks and more. Pirelli Hot Lap vehicles and other hypercars will be on display. Admission is free, but tickets are required. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone with a fan experience ticket will also be able to redeem an exclusive offer for three-day Las Vegas Grand Prix tickets.
SWINGERS CRAZY GOLF OPENING NOVEMBER 8
Swingers ‘crazy golf’ is a UK concept that mixes cocktails with music, street food, and mini golf. It is set to open its first Las Vegas location at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on November 8. The space will comprise 40,000 square feet, three floors, and no fewer than five golf courses. Swingers is calling the location its “flagship” and promises an immersive, sensory-rich experience that will introduce Sin City to the concept of the English-style “country house.” Swingers began a decade ago in an East London warehouse and opened its first U.S. location in Washington, D.C., in 2021. The brand’s 1920s aesthetic, Instagram-friendly golf courses and adults-only vibe make it an ideal night out for millennial and Gen Z crowds in search of sharable experiences.
COSMOPOLITAN TO HOST LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX WATCH PARTIES
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will host an alternative experience for racing fans this fall. The Boulevard Pool at the Cosmopolitan will be home to “The Boulevard Experience,” a multi-day watch party for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The three-day experience will be highlighted by a closed-circut viewing of the live Grand Prix TV feed. In addition there will be live DJ entertainment and food and beverage options. Fans can purchase single-day tickets starting at $250 for Thursday and Friday, and $350 for Saturday. A three-day pass is available for $700. Visit the MG Resorts website to purchase tickets.
LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX ANNOUNCES HEADLINERS
Ludacris, Alesso and OneRepublic will be among the featured entertainment for this year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix. The race announced the music lineup for the T-Mobile Zone at Sphere Stage. OneRepublic will perform on November 21; Alesso will follow on November 22; and Ludricris will cap the entertainment on November 23. Other performers planned to take the stage include Chromeo, DRAMA, Kaleena Zanders, MEUTE, The Beaches, and TOO MANY ZOOZ.
COUNTRY MUSIC STAR JASON ALDEAN TO OPEN RESTAURANT & BAR ON THE STRIP
Jason Aldean is bringing a taste of Nashville to the Las Vegas Strip. TC Restaurant Group announced it will partner with the country music star to open Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Bar this fall at 63 CityCenter, on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue. The venue will combine Southern comfort food, one-of-a-kind memorabilia and live music under one roof. There will be 22,500 square feet of space over two stories, with two music stages featuring regular live performances. Guests will find outdoor patios with Strip views, seven bars, private spaces, full-service dining and a DJ-driven nightlife. iHeartRadio will also have a live on-air studio on location to record daily interviews with musicians and celebrities who take the stage for impromptu performances.
MOB MUSEUSM ACQUIRES AL CAPONE’S PISTOL FOR COLLECTION
The Mob Museum in Las Vegas has acquired one of the most significant belongings once owned by notorious gangster Al Capone. The museum announced that it purchased Capone’s Colt 1911 .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol, which his family claimed he called “Sweetheart.” It comes with a letter of provenance from Diane Capone, Al Capone’s granddaughter, and has been authenticated by the Office of Colt Historian. According to the museum, Al Capone left the gun to his wife, Mae, who passed it down to their son, Albert “Sonny” Capone. Sonny made modifications to the gun, and after he died in 2004, the pistol came into the possession of his daughters. They sold the gun at auction in 2021, and it now has a permanent home in The Mob Museum’s artifact collection thanks to the generosity of a private contributor. The museum says the family lore about the gun, including the nickname “Sweetheart,” hasn’t been independently verified. Al Capone was infamous for his roles in bootlegging, gambling and other illegal rackets. He is believed to be responsible for the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and remains one of the most enduring figures of America’s Prohibition era. The museum says it will announce when the gun will be displayed to the public in the coming months.
FONTAINEBLEAU INTRODUCES SIGNATURE SERIES BY FONTAINEBLEAU
Fontainebleau Las Vegas is pulling back the curtain of its industry-leading experts with the debut of Signature Series by Fontainebleau, spirited and interactive classes lead by the resort’s acclaimed chefs, beverage leaders and experiential connoisseurs. Chef Patrick Munster, Chef Damon Falls, Chef Chantone Vang, Chef Stefano Chiarugi, Chef Kyle Brandish, Chef Yutaka Kude, Master Sommelier Kevin Reilly, and Director of Beverage Development Juyoung Kang will all share their talents through Signature Series classes, taking place throughout 2024 and into 2025. Each class is tailored to the season, guiding guests through experiences across the property, giving them the opportunity to learn and bring new techniques to their own table.
NEW SEAFOOD RESTAURANT OPENS ON THE STRIP
A new restaurant – Bazaar Mar – from acclaimed chef José Andrés’ business group is now open at The Shops at Crystals. It’s described as a seafood-driven interactive restaurant, with dishes served in shareable style. The menu includes fish like Open Blue Cobia (Panama), Ora King Salmon (New Zealand) and Balfegó Tuna (Spain). The restaurant space itself features a custom mural, tapas bar and fish display in front of the open kitchen. Next to Bazaar Mar is Bar Centro, a bar serving coffee and pastries in the morning, Spanish pressed sandwiches for lunch, and cocktails, caviar and desserts in the event. Bazaar Mar is located on the main level of The Shops. Hours of operation are 5-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
NEW UNIQUE TIKI EXPERIENCE, GLITTER GULCH TIKI, NOW OPEN IN DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS
The creative minds behind Nacho Daddy proudly announce the grand opening of Glitter Gulch Tiki, a swanky tiki lounge transforming the former Nacho Daddy location on 4th Street into a vibrant, immersive paradise. Glitter Gulch Tiki promises to be the ultimate destination for tiki culture enthusiasts and revelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
NEW TAVERN CONCEPT FROM STATION CASINOS OPENING
Station Casinos announced it will launch a new tavern concept this year in North Las Vegas. Seventy Six by Station Casinos will feature drinks, dining and gaming in what’s described as a neighborhood and sports-viewing hangout. The new concept will offer 15 bartop machines, 24 high-definition televisions, and a VIP player’s club exclusive to Seventy Six. The dining menu will feature bar favorites like nachos, tacos, pasta, burgers and more. A full bar will have house-made cocktails and 20 beers on tap. Seventy Six’s first location at the corner of Lamb and Centennial boulevards is scheduled to open this fall and operate 24 hours a day. More locations are planned to open through 2025, according to Station Casinos.
CAESARS SELLING WORLD SERIES OF POKER BRAND
Caesars Entertainment says it’s reached a deal to sell the intellectual property rights to the World Series of Poker for $500 million. The WSOP brand will be sold to the private investment company NSUS Group, which owns the online poker room GGPoker, according to a news release. Under the deal, the poker tournament will stay at Caesars’ Las Vegas casinos for at least the next 20 years. The company’s poker rooms will also keep WSOP branding and casinos will have preferential rights to host live WSOP circuit events. Caesars Digital will receive a license to operate its WSOP Online real-money poker business in Nevada and three other states, but it will be restricted from operating peer-to-peer poker operations otherwise. Caesars will receive $250 million in cash and a promissory note for the other half due five years after the sale closes.
ITALIAN CHAIN BUCA DI BEPPO ENTERS CHAPTER 11 BANKRUPTCY
Italian restaurant chain Buca di Beppo announced that it’s entering Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company filed for reorganization and will restructure “44 core locations,” which will continue to operate as usual, according to a news release. Buca di Beppo was founded in Minneapolis in 1993 and is known for serving dishes family-style for multiple people. There are three locations in the Las Vegas valley: inside Excalibur on the Strip, at the corner of Flamingo and Paradise roads, and at the corner of Lake Mead Boulevard and Buffalo Drive.
COSMOPOLITAN OFFICIALLY PART OF MGM LOYALTY PROGRAM
The Cosmopolitan has officially joined MGM Resorts’ loyalty program – MGM Rewards. This means rewards members can earn and redeem points at the casino-resort. Points accumulated under the previous rewards program, Identity, have been transferred to MGM Rewards for anyone with an existing account. For those who are not MG Rewards members, they can activate a newly created MGM Rewards account to access points.
BIG TEN BASKETBALL TOURNAMENTS COMING TO LAS VEGAS
The Big Ten Conference announced it will hold two of its conference basketball tournaments at T-Mobile Arena in the coming years. The women’s tournament will be played March 3 -7, 2027, and the men’s tournament March 8 – 12, 2028. The men’s tournament in 2028 will also coincide with Las Vegas hosting the NCAA Men’s Final Four at Allegiant Stadium in April.
ELVIS MEMORABILIA SHOWCASE OPENS AT WESTGATE
A new exhibit featuring one-of-a-kind Elvis Presley memorabilia is now open at Westgate. Items in the collection include Presley’s Army watch, the shoes he wore during his last performance at the International Theater, an original vinyl debut single “That’s All Right,” and even a lock of his hair. The items come from the private collection of Westgate Resorts CEO Jim Gissy. The showcase is inside the main lobby at the front entrance and it’s free to the public.
VENETIAN RESORT OPERATOR BUYS OUT GAMING MACHINE MAKERS
The company that owns the operations of The Venetian Resort has agreed to buy two slot machine manufacturers in a deal valued at $6.3 billion. Apollo Global Management announced it will acquire Everi Holdings and the gaming and digital businesses of IGT. The newly formed enterprise, which has not yet been named, will be headquartered in Las Vegas. The deal is all cash with Everi stockholders getting $14.25 per share and IGT receiving $4.05 billion in cash proceeds. IGT expects to use the cash to pay down its debts. Once the sale is complete, IGT will change its name and become a “pure play” lottery business.
AUGUST 2024 HAPPENINGS
TROPICANA LAS VEGAS OPERATOR BALLY’S CORP AGREES TO BUYOUT
Bally’s Corporation, the company that operated Tropicana Las Vegas, announced that it has agreed to a buyout valued at $4.6 billion. The company said that it entered a merger agreement with Standard General, its largest shareholder. Under the deal, Standard General will purchase all of Bally’s outstanding stock at $18.25 per share and Bally’s will merge with The Queen Casino & Entertainment Inc. which operates four casinos across three states. The deal is subject to regulatory approval.
TRAM BETWEEN HARD ROCK & TREASURE ISLAND TO REOPEN IN 2027
When the Hard Rock Hotel Casino reopens in 2027, the tram between it and Treasure Island will be back up and running. The tram was shut down in the weeks leading up to the July 17 closure of Mirage. The TI/Mirage tram system first opened in 1993. It features two cars, each capable of carrying up to 50 passengers. Tram service is free.
ICONIC MIRAGE ARTIFACTS TO BE DONATED TO NEON MUSEUM
Following the closing of the Mirage on July 17, Hard Rock International announced that they will donate several artifacts from the site to the Neon Museum. Artifacts such as the 17-foot tall Siegfried & Roy sculpture, the 30-foot tall Mirage Hotel entrance sign, and the 27-foot tall Mirage neon sign at the Volcano Lagoon will live on at the Neon Museum. Additional artifacts will be donated to the museum after the Mirage’s public art auction concludes in September.
NEON MUSEUM ANNOUNCES PLANS TO EXPAND, RELOCATE
The Neon Museum recently announced new relocation and expansion plans. The museum is considering plans for two new locations downtown. The first site is a 60,000-square-foot outdoor display space with a panoramic view of the Las Vegas Valley. It will also feature a 47,000-square-foot indoor area with space for classrooms and immersive experiences. The second site is a 35,000-square-foot programmable space just a short walk away that will feature a neon maker’s space, a neon boneyard, and storage space for new additions to the collection. The original location is still open and continues normal operations.
LAS VEGAS DEBUTS FIRST-EVER RESIDENCY DRONE SHOW
Officials with Atomic Golf launched the first-ever residency drone show on July 18. Guests can enjoy a spectacular display featuring hundreds of drone at the downtown entertainment site. The show runs every Thursday night at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Admission is free. Atomic Golf is located at 1850 S. Main Street, near Las Vegas Blvd.
ALL-MLB WEEKEND RETURNING TO LAS VEGAS
Some of the biggest and brightest stars in Major League Baseball are returning to Las Vegas as MGM Resorts once again hosts the All-MLB Weekend. The second annual event kicks off with an awards show that will be filmed at the Cosmopolitan on November 14. Tickets for the awards show are available now – they start at $229. Fans will also have opportunities to interact with MLB players and legends, including playing golf during the VIP Golf Pro-Am. Tee times are available on November 15 for $2,000 per person. Additional events taking place during the All-MLB Weekend will be announced at a later date.
M RESORT FEATURING DIVE-IN MOVIES
M Resort Spa Casino are hosting dive-in movies this summer. Movies include Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (August 9) and Uncharted (September 13). Attendees must wear proper swim attire. Outside food and beverages are not permitted; however, a limited food menu and full bar will be available. Towels will be available for hotel guests. Non-hotel guests are encouraged to bring towels. Parking is free. Tickets are $10 each for all ages. Movies start at 8 p.m. and is limited to the first 400 guests.
NEW CIRQUE DU SOLEIL DOCUMENTARY ON PRIME VIDEO
A new Cirque du Soleil documentary, “Cirque du Soleil: Without A Net”, began streaming on Prime Video in July. The movie focuses on “O” and how the company rebooted the production over a year after the world shut down due to the pandemic. During the pandemic, Cirque du Soleil laid off about 3,400 employees and filed for bankruptcy in June 2020. In November 2020, they secured lenders and emerged from creditor protection. In July 2021, performers once again graced the “O” stage at the Bellagio.
FIOLA MARE COMING TO WYNN
Early next year, Wynn Las Vegas will debut Fiola Mare, a Mediterranean seafood restaurant from James Beard and Michelin-awarded chef Fabio Trabocchi. Fiola Mare’s menu will feature a stunning selection of seafood sourced from the Mediterranean and East and West Coast of the U.S. The Las Vegas location will feature a raw bar at the entrance, as well as impressive seafood towers, an array of tableside services, and elegantly-grilled seafood entrees. Guests will also be able to make selections from a seafood card that will offer multiple daily catch options. Fiola Mare will replace Lakeside which closed permanently in July.
BELLAGIO ADDING RETAIL & RESTAURANT SPACE
The Bellagio resort wants to add nearly 400,000 square feet of retail and dining space to its main walkway entrance. The proposal, called “Project Mojave,” would be located on the south side of Bellagio Drive. Blue prints and renderings filed with Clark County show the project running from the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Bellagio Drive toward the parking garage and lobby. The space is currently a walkway connecting Las Vegas Boulevard to the resort entrance. The building would be three floors above the ground level. There would be some remodeling for the lobby and bus drop-off area inside the parking garage. Existing driveways and circulations would not change. A bridge would also connect the resort to The Cosmopolitan, and a new digital marquee would replace the current one.
THE SELFIE STUDIO: DECADES TOUR RETURNS TO FASHION SHOW LAS VEGAS
Fashion Show Las Vegas will welcome the return of the time-traveling art installation, The Selfie Studio: Decades Tour. Starting August 1, the complimentary nostalgic activation will allow guests to journey through the decades and capture vibrant Instagrammable photos. Themes include The 50s – The Diner; The 60s – Mellow Meadows; The 70s – Disco Fever; The 80s – The Gamer; Back to the 90s – The Video Store; The 00’s – Teenage Dream; The NOW – Gone Viral; and The Future.
COTE KOREAN STEAKHOUSE & GJELINA COMING TO THE VENETIAN RESORT
Gracious Hospitality Management has announced plans to open COTE Vegas, the brand’s first West Coast concept in 2025. Located at The Venetian Resort, the Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse, recently named North America’s Best Steakhouse by World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, will debut early next year as a part of the resort’s $1.5 billion reinvestment project. Also coming to The Venetian Resort is beloved Venice Beach produce-forward concept, Gjelina. This Vegas outpost marks the third restaurant location for Gjelina, a SoCal staple renowned nationally for its locally sourced dishes. Gjelina joins the resort’s collection of more than thirty restaurants which include chef-driven concepts from a stacked roster of industry veterans such as Thomas Keller, Wolfgang Puck, and Tetsuya Wakuda, as well as Lorena Garcia, Emeril Lagasse, and Eyal Shani.
JULY 2024 HAPPENINGS
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL PAUSES & ANNOUNCES ALTERNATE EVENT
The Life is Beautiful festival is changing this year. Organizers have announced a pause to the annual festival, instead offering fans a new two-day dance party event titled “A Beautiful Block Party.” The new event will take place September 27 & 28 across two stages around the Arts District in downtown Las Vegas. The new event is not meant to replace the Life is Beautiful festival but serves as an alternative as they work to reimagine the experience. Passes for the Block Party start at $199.
BETMGM ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH BRIAN CHRISTOPHER SLOTS
BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, announced an exclusive partnership with Brian Christopher Slots that will make Brian Christopher, the top social media influencer for slots and casinos, a BetMGM brand ambassador. BetMGM will showcase Brian Christopher in live streams across social media channels featuring its online casino platforms as well as in future marketing campaigns. The partnership between Brian Christopher Slots and BetMGM highlights the strength of both brands. The partnership elements are scheduled to include live streams and exclusive experiences. Brian Christopher Slots’ award-winning content boasts a loyal following through brands such as BCSlots.com, BCSlots YouTube channel, FlipTheSwitch.com, BCSlots Cruises and Rudies Fan Club. Brian Christopher Slots’ social media channels reach 8 million monthly unique viewers, 1.8 million subscribers and recently set a new casino gaming record of 1 billion video views. In 2023, Brian Christopher Slots was named Streamer of the Year and Slot Collaboration of the Year at the CasinoBeats Game Developer Awards presented by SBC.
TERRY FATOR RECEIVES KEY TO CITY OF LAS VEGAS
Mayor Carolyn Goodman proclaimed June 18 as Terry Fator Day in Las Vegas to recognize the superstar headliner. Goodman presented Fator and his sidekick, Winston the turtle, with the key to Las Vegas in front of guests such as Criss Angel, Frank Marino and Willie Tyler. The presentation came as Fator opened his new show, “Terry Fator: One Man, a Hundred Voices, a Thousand Laughs!” at The STRAT. Fator has been a mainstay on the Strip for more than 15 years.
DINNER HAS RETURNED TO THE BUFFET AT BELLAGIO
The Buffet at Bellagio has brought back its dinner buffet. Its seafood service will be offered from 1 to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. A fresh seafood station will feature crab legs, tuna poke, ceviche, susi and jumbo lump crab salad. The cost is $79.99. The buffet continues to serve brunch from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
HOUSE OF BLUES RESTAURANT LAUNCHING HAUNTED BRUNCH
Described as the “spookiest show on the Strip,” The House of Blues Restaurant & Bar inside Mandalay Bay is launching a horror-themed brunch July 28. The venue says its new brunch is a “fully immersive and one-of-a-kind Vegas brunch experience, filled with nods to your favorite spooky characters and horror movies.” As part of the experience, dancers, acrobats and “ghoulishly talented” specialty acts will weave their way through guests and at any moment “could provide an unexpected spine-chilling jump scare.” There will be an all-you-can-eat buffet and themed cocktails. Tickets for the haunted brunch at $59 for general admission seating and $74 for VIP front row seating.
NATIONAL FINALS RODEO TO REMAIN IN VEGAS THROUGH 2035
The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) extended its agreement to remain in Las Vegas through 2035 and will pay more than $264 million to the competitors and stock contractors. Las Vegas Events will contribute an additional $1.3 million this year and in 2025 as a signing bonus. The prize money for this year’s event from December 5 – 14 will be more than $16.2 million and will be $17.5 million next year. The amount will then increase by $1 million each year through the life of the new contract. The NFR has been in Las Vegas since 1985, except for one year during COVID-19.
LASER SHOW FEATURING TAYLOR SWIFT MUSIC COMING TO VIRGIN HOTELS LAS VEGAS
“Taylor Shines – The Laser Spectacular,” a laser show featuring the music of Taylor Swift, is coming to Virgin Hotels Las Vegas October 27. The family-friendly production is described as an immersive concert experience at The Theater celebrating Swift’s career. A laser display, large-screen video projection and live performance from DJ Jexxa will help fans experience a two-hour presentation of Swift’s hit songs, including “Anti-Hero,” “Love Story,” and “Shake It Off.”
FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS TO HOST THE STRIP’S FIRST-EVER PPA TOUR LAS VEGAS PICKLEBALL CUP
Fontainebleau Las Vegas is bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to the Strip with the first-ever PPA Tour Las Vegas Pickleball Cup. The exclusive three-year engagement, in partnership with the Carvana PPA Tour, will be the first and only professional pickleball championship on the Las Vegas Strip. The six-day tournament will be held August 27 through September 1 in the resort’s 105,000-square-foot Royal Ballroom – the largest, pillar-less, carpeted ballroom in a hotel in North America – and will feature the world’s best professional pickleball players on the sport’s biggest stage. In addition to the professional tournament, the Las Vegas Pickleball Cup will host an amateur event, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels from all around the country to participate in the marquee event and enjoy the incredible amenities and atmosphere of the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Players looking to compete in the inaugural Las Vegas Pickleball Cup at Fontainebleau Las Vegas can register online. Registration is $95 with a $40 event fee per each event entry. Additionally, tickets are on sale now online, starting at $25. Fontainebleau Las Vegas is offering a special room rate for eventgoers.
FRIENDS ATTRACTION COMING TO MGM GRAND
Central Perk. Monica’s apartment. The fountain from the opening credits. Re-creations of these and other sets, along with original props and costumes will be avaliable for viewing when “The Friends Experience” opens at MGM Grand this fall. A touring version has visited 22 cities but the Las Vegas attraction will be the third permanent one. The two-story attraction will dedicate part of its space to the four-episodes in 1999 that brought the characters to Las Vegas where Joey was supposed to have the lead role in a movie filming outside town. A version of the wedding chapel set where Ross and Rachel drunkenly married will also be there. The Friends Experience will be located in The District at MGM Grand, near the arena, in a space that previously housed CSI: The Experience and The Hunger Games: The Exhibition.
ELECTRIC PLAYHOUSE OPENED
Electric Playhouse, a new 10,000 square foot social gaming destination, opened inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace on June 22. The playhouse merges digital and physical worlds into one through dozens of motion-activated games and experiences. The walls inside the playhouse will spring to life and respond to players’ actions within the ifferent gaming areas. Every visit to the playhouse promises a new adventure. Electric Playhouse will also feature an outdoor patio and a full-service bar (launching later this year). Also coming later this summer will be upscale dining experiences. Electric Playhouse is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
AREA15 INTRODUCES NEW ATTRACTIONS AND GAMING HUB
AREA15 announces “The Lab,” the brand-new interactive attractions and gaming hub housing an array of tech-driven games and experiences, including AREA15’s first-ever proprietary IP innovations. These enthralling additions cement the award-winning experiential entertainment district as a leader in the global attractions industry. The centerpiece of AREA15’s new experiences is its proprietary gaming adventure, Origin Quest, a pioneering, narrative-driven scavenger hunt inviting guests to unravel the enigmatic origin story of AREA15.
ALL-NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART STN SPORTSBOOK AT SUNSET STATION UNVEILED
Sunset Station has unveiled a game-changing transformation of the property’s all-new race and sportsbook. The high-design and technologically advanced STN Sportsbook is poised to become the ultimate Henderson destination for guests seeking a premium sports viewing hot spot and convenient betting locale. The stunning 12,000 square-foot STN Sportsbook offers a dramatically new look and welcomes in the next era of sportsbook experiences with a panoramic 152-foot LED screen wall, tiered VIP seating, comfortable lounge areas, a dynamic bar scene, high-definition screens at every turn and seamless betting options for guests.
LINEUP FOR iHEART MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED
iHeartMedia announced the lineup for their two-day music event at T-Mobile Arena on September 20 & 21. Big Sean, Camila Cabello, Doja Cat, Gwen Stefani, Hozier, Keith Urban, New Kids on the Block, Paramore, The Black Crowes and Thomas Rhett are just some of the artists expected to perform. Ryan Seacrest will once again host the event. Tickets are available at www.axs.com. If you can’t make it to T-Mobile Arena, the festival will stream live on Hulu.
WYNN BECOMES HOME OF NEW SIRIUSXM BROADCAST STUDIO
A state-of-the art broadcast studio has officially opened on the Strip inside Wynn. The studio will be home to a variety of programming, including a new series hosted by legendary hip-hop artist Flavor Flav, called Flavor Flav’s Flavor of the Week, which debuted June 10. Other shows will include Mad Dog Sports Radio host JT the Brick and Eddie Trunk, host on SiriusXM’s Faction Talk, Hair Nation and Volume channels. The new studio joins several other SiriusXM broadcast studios across North America.
BUDDY V’S PIZZERIA OPENING AT CAESARS PALACE
Celebrity chef Buddy Valastro, better known as Cake Boss or Buddy V, is opening a pizzeria at Caesars Palace later this summer. The menu will redefine the traditional New York-style pizza experience. There will also be sandwiches, breakfast items and a variety of fan-favorite desserts. The pizzeria will replace the former DiFara Pizza. This will be Valastro’s fourth establishment in Las Vegas and his first at Caesars Palace. He already has PizzaCake inside Harrah’s and Buddy’s Jersey Eats and The Boss Cafe at The LINQ.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S KA EXTENDED AT MGM GRAND
KA, the Cirque du Soleil show, will continue performing at MGM Grand through 2026. KA first opened at MGM Grand in 2005 and celebrated its 8000th show in September 2023. KA will head into a new schedule for the summer, offering shows at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Performances will continue at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. The summer schedule runs from June 29 to September 1.
LITE-BRITE: WORLDS OF WONDER COMES TO ILLUMINARIUM
Child-like wonder is lighting up the valley with a toy-inspired immersive show. Hasbro, Inc. teamed up with content studio Secret Location to launch Lite-Brite: Worlds of Wonder at Illuminarium Las Vegas. People of all ages are invited to check out the playful and interactive 60-minute experience for some nostalgic fun. Key features of the experience include: a cinematic interactive show, a retail experience, the opportunity to play and create with physical Lite-Brite toys, and the opportunity to take a memorable take-home photo. Tickets for Lite-Brite: Worlds of Wonder start at $35 for adults and $30 for children and seniors.
JUNE 2024 HAPPENINGS
MIRAGE CLOSING JULY 17
The Mirage Hotel & Casino will officially close its doors July 17 in order to begin transforming the property into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. Guests with room reservations or show tickets beyond July 14 will be automatically canceled and refunded. Guests booked through a third-party provider or online travel agency will automatically be canceled but should be contacted directly for rebooking or possible refunds. Transformation plans for the property include adding 800 to 1,000 hotel rooms, renovating the existing rooms and suites, renovating the casino to include 1,800 slot machines and 200 table game, expanding the meeting space, and adding nearly 3,000 theater seats. The property is expected to re-open in 2027.
DOMINIQUE ANSEL MARCHE OPENING AT PARIS
Pasty chef Dominique Ansel is adding another location to his Las Vegas resume. Dominique Ansel Marche, a new dining destination, is set to open at Paris in the fall. According to the press release, it is inspired by the sidewalk markets in France and will showcase croissants, made-to-order crepes, seasonal fresh fruit tarts, cakes and ice cream. The restaurant will also offer savory items like rotisserie chicken and potatoes. The restaurant will occupy the former JJ’s Boulangerie space near The Bedford by Martha Stewart.
F1 ARCADE OPENING AT FORUM SHOPS
A new experience based around Formula One is coming to the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace in 2025. The venue will cover over 21,000 square feet and span two floors, complete with terrace views of the Strip, making it F1 Arcade’s largest venue to date. Motor sports enthusiasts can get behind the wheel of a cutting-edge full-motion simulator and race along the world’s most iconic tracks. There will be a 41-foot-long bar offering cocktails and “mocktails” named in homage to the Grand Prix. A private room will also be available to rent.
PICASSO AT BELLAGIO CLOSING AFTER 25 YEARS
Chef Julian Serrano announced that he is planning to retire and step away from the kitchen of Lago and close Picasso at Bellagio in August. Picasso opened in 1998 and earned some of the industry’s top culinary honors. The chef remains at the helm of Julian Serrano Tapas at ARIA. MGM Resorts is expected to share details on a new addition to Bellagio’s culinary portfolio in the coming months.
EVEL KNIEVEL MUSEUM MOVING TO NEW COMPLEX DOWNTOWN
The Evel Knievel Museum is relocating to downtown Las Vegas, part of a new complex planned that will feature a coffee shop and heavy metal-themed pizza parlor. Construction will begin on the 32,000 square foot Mission Linen building, located at the corner of 1st Street and Coolidge Avenue in the Arts District. The site will be the future home of the museum dedicated to Evel Knievel, the daredevil known for his death-defying stunts. The museum is currently located in Topeka, Kansas.
FONTAINEBLEAU TO HOST 2024 NHL AWARDS
Fontainebleau will host the NHL’s annual awards ceremony for the first time on June 27. Tickets for the ceremony went on sale May 17 and room packages are available. This is the eleventh time the NHL Awards have been presented in Las Vegas and is the first time since 2019. Winners of the league’s biggest trophies are announced every year at the NHL Awards, including most valuable player (Hart Trophy), outstanding goaltender (Vezina Trophy), and outstanding defenseman (Norris Trophy).
LAS VEGAS PICKED TO HOST 2027 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF CHAMPIONSHIP
Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas is reportedly set to host the College Football Playoff championships game in 2027. New Orleans, Dallas and Miami are also in talks to host the following three title games. Championship sites are expected to be announced in September. Las Vegas would be the eleventh different city to host a CFP championship.
DAYLIGHT BEACH CLUB’S LATIN NIGHT RETURNED
Neo Vibra, featuring the hottest Latin musicians and in-demand DJs returned to Mandalay Bay Resort on Saturday nights. The neon-themed dance party turns the popular beach club into a colorful oasis, including its 4,400 square foot pool with private areas for bottle service and exclusive VIP sections. The 2024 edition of Neon Vibra kicked off with a performance from the popular Latin group Sencilla Conexion, composed of the fiery duo DJ Shark and Pablo Cruz. The group performed their energetic Latin-style hip-hop and pop hits, including “Mala Vida” and “Un Loco Como Yo.”
HOLSTEINS CLOSING
Holsteins, a burger joint in the Cosmopolitan known for its over-the-top burgers and shakes, is closing July 9. Employees of the restaurant were notified of the closure on May 10, and are being encouraged to re-apply to the hospitality group’s next restaurant, which is currently in development. In the wake of the closure, the hospitality group is set to start work on another restaurant that will be announced in coming months. Holsteins opened in 2010 and had become a favorite on the Strip over the years.
EXOSPHERE DISPLAYS COULD SOON HAVE AUDIO
The world has been wowed by many Exosphere displays since the venue was officially turned on about a year ago. Soon, you could also be able to hear those displays. Sphere is exploring the idea of adding an audio component to go along with the Exosphere, making the medium even more attractive.
EL CORTEZ ANNOUNCES $20 MILLION PROPERTY-WIDE EXPANSION
A historic casino in downtown Las Vegas continues to renovate, evolve and grow. The El Cortez Hotel & Casino announced a property-wide expansion that will include a new high limit lounge, a new roulette bar, a new show bar that will play black & white films and live sports, a new Asian restaurant called Hot Noods by Chinglish, and a Starbucks coffee shop. The project will also include expanding the casino’s footprint by 10,000 square fee and renovating 4,000 square feet of the existing casino floor. The new Starbucks is expected to open in June and the restaurant is scheduled to open in early 2025.
VENETIAN ANNOUNCES EXTENSIVE RENOVATION
The Venetian Resort will undergo an extensive $1.5 billion renovation, described as the largest and most expensive in its 25-year history. A comprehensive update is underway for the 4,000 suites in the Venetian’s towers and the convention center. New suite designs are inspired by the costumes of the Venetian Carnival. Suites will be available for stays in September. $188 million will be invested into renovating the convention center, adding a new color palette and luxury lounge spaces. The redesign is scheduled to begin in the summer. New restaurants are also expected to be added.
MOHEGAN SUN EXITING CASINO OPERATIONS AT VIRGIN HOTELS LAS VEGAS
Casino operations at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas will move in-house as Mohegan Sun exits the resort in the coming months. It was announced that an integrated gaming offering will eventually fall under the management of resort president Cliff Atkinson. Virgin Hotels and Mohegan Sun will begin a transition period and once complete, Mohegan Sun will no longer manage or lease Virgin Hotel’s casino. Mohegan Sun has run the casino at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas since the rebranded resort opened in 2021. Virgin Hotels says they do not expect any significant disruptions for guests or employees. The gaming transition is subject to regulatory approval.
WRESTLEMANIA COMING TO LAS VEGAS
For the first time since 1993, WrestleMania is returning to Las Vegas. WrestleMania 41 will be held at Allegiant Stadium on April 19 & 20, 2025. In addition to the two-night stadium event, WWE officials said they are also bringing Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, WWE World, and the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony to Las Vegas, as well as a variety of community outreach events designed to give back to southern Nevada. The last time the event was held in Las Vegas was at Caesars Palace on April 4, 1993 and drew 16,891 fans. The storylines for that event included Yokozuna challenging Bret Hart for the WWF Championship at the main event. Priority Passes for WrestleMania 41 will soon be available through On Location, which offers fans premium seating, hospitality events with Superstar appearances, exclusive photo opportunities, and more. Additional ticket and event information will be announced in the coming months.
WYNN ANNOUNCES RETURN OF NIGHTTIME POOL PARTY – XS NIGHT SWIM
Wynn Nightlife, Wynn las Vegas‘ premier nightlife division, announced the return of its highly-anticipated nightime pool series, XS Night Swim at XS Nightclub. Touted as Las Vegas’ original and longest running nightime pool celebration, XS Night Swim has long been recognized as a top nightlife destination attracting partygoers to its famed Sunday night poolside party series featuring dynamic programming, relaxed attire and high-octane energy.
THE STRAT TO MAKE WAVES WITH NEW “LAST HOUR HAPPY HOUR” AT SWIM & SOCIAL
Swim & Social, the STRAT’s picturesque destination to sip, swim and socialize, will elevate the final hour of the Swim & Social experience with the introduction of “Last Hour Happy Hour,” where all beverages will be available for half-price. Admission is complimentary for hotel guests and available to non-hotel guests for $15 Monday through Thursday.
MAY 2024 HAPPENINGS
INTERACTIVE GRATEFUL DEAD EXPERIENCE COMING TO VENETIAN
A new interactive experience is opening at the Venetian to celebrate the legacy of the Grateful Dead. Called the “Dead Forever Experience”, the exhibit will offer fans a chance to gather and view exclusive content over two floors inside the resort. Fans can see a scale recreation of the infamous Wall of Sound, the massive sound system created for Grateful Dead concerts in 1974. There will also be an immersive art exhibition, a photography exhibit and a retail store. The experience is being held in conjuncion with Dead & Company’s headlining residency at Sphere which runs May 16 through July. It is free for the public and will be open five days a week.
RIO HOTEL & CASINO UNVEILS BRAZILIAN OASIS
A new local oasis is making its debut at the Rio Hotel & Casino just in time for summer. The new pool, inspired by the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, features a colorful array of brand-new umbrellas, bright yellow cabanas and an abundance of chaises. Guests are able to enjoy four pools each with its own distinct charm. The refurbished pool also treats guests to a diverse range of dining experiences. The pool is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.
COSMOPOLITAN ANNOUNCES 2024 DIVE IN MOVIES LINEUP
The Cosmopolitan is bringing back the fan-favorite Dive In Movies series to Boulevard Pool this summer. The series is scheduled to run from May 20 through September 9. Doors will open at 7 p.m. each night and the movie will start at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 for non-hotel guests or $10 for Las Vegas locals. Admission is complimentary for hotel guests, members of Identity Membership & Rewards, first responders and military (with valid ID), and children five and under. Guests are welcome to bring their own blankets – lounge seating is available on a first come, first served basis. No outside food or drinks are allowed. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Ticket information and the full movie schedule are available online.
BLUE MAN GROUP OFFERING SENSORY FRIENDLY SHOW
The Blue Man Group is gearing up to kick off a colorful performance made for those with autism. The Las Vegas icons will perform a sensory-friendly version of their show on June 23 at 2 p.m. for Autism Awareness Month. The group will limit their audience interaction and make modifications to reduce sound and light levels throughout the show. Quiet spaces outside the theater will provide a calm environment for families needing a sensory break. Earplugs will be available upon request. A portion of each ticket sold will go to Grant A Gift Autism Foundation.
NOMAD HOTEL TO BE REBRANDED
NoMad Las Vegas, the 293-room hotel on the top four floors of Park MGM, will rebrand in the coming months. Hotel giant Hilton announced that it would acquire a majority controlling interest in Sydell Group, the London-based hospitality company behind the NoMad brand. Hilton said it plans to expland the NoMad Hotels brand with as many as 10 properties. The news release stated that the Las Vegas location was excluded from the transaction and will have a new name. It is not publicly known at this time what the hotel will rebrand to.
BOB MARLEY HOPE ROAD EXPERIENCE OPENING AT MANDALAY BAY LATE 2024
Bob Marley Hope Road invites audiences to enter a world where the heartbeat of one man unites all in celebration. Guests will step into an authentic Jamaican experience as Bob Marley’s life and music unfolds around them in a lyrical tapestry of color and sound. Hope Road will be open seven days a week and will offer two unique experiences – Hope Road by Day and Hope Road by Night. For more information visit the website.
FONTAINEBLEAU INTRODUCES NEW POOLSIDE MOVIE SERIES
Fontainebleau launches Oasis Cinema Club. Guests can spend Sunday nights poolside at Fontainebleau’s six-acre Oasis Pool Deck with a line-up of big-screen classics and fun twists on signature concessions. The series begins May 5 with Coco and ends September 1 with Grease. Admission is free for hotel guests and $5 for locals. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the movie beginning at 8 p.m. Visit the Fontainebleau website for the complete movie line-up.
POPSTROKE GOLF EXPERIENCE OPENED APRIL 22
PopStroke, which is partnered with Tiger Woods and Taylormade, opened near Town Square Las Vegas on April 22. The venue features a two-story building set on two unique 18-hole courses. Guests can enjoy an open-air dining experience, an outdoor beer garden, four bars, a fully enclosed outdoor playground for small children, and oversize TVs and screens for sports viewing. There is also an ice cream parlor and outdoor games like table tennis, foosball and corn hole. You can also track your score and order drinks for delivery on-course through the PopStroke App. This is PopStroke’s first spot in Nevada.
NEW COLLEGE BASKETBALL POSTSEASON TOURNAMENT COMING TO VEGAS
A new college basketball postseason tournament is coming to Vegas starting next year. Schools from the Big 10, Big 12 and Big East conferences are set to participate, along with additional at-large participants. The tournament is scheduled for March 31 – April 6. Teams that did not qualify for the NCAA tournament will be eligible. Two automatic qualifiers come from each participating conference, and additional teams will be chosen by a committee. Details are scheduled to be released at a later date. This will be the second attempt at a college postseason tournament. Mandalay Bay hosted a tournament back in 2016 in which eight college teams competed.
LUCKLEY TAVERN & GRILL REPLACING ALL-AMERICAN BAR & GRILL AT RIO
The All-American Bar & Grill at the Rio is being replaced by the Luckley Tavern & Grill, scheduled to open in May. The restaurant’s menu will feature dishes like lollipop-style buffalo wings, tuna “pizza” and scallops “Benedict”. This is one of several changes the resort is making as it undergoes renovations across the property. Phase one of the renovation started in 2023 and included upgrades to the rooms in the Ipanema tower, arrival area, building exterior (including a dazzling new LED upgrade), lobby, gaming floor, sports book, meeting spaces, and the pool area. It’s scheduled to wrap up later this fall. Phase two will include a full renovation of the Masquerade Tower.
TROPICANA DEMOLITION TENTATIVELY SET FOR OCTOBER
Demolition of the Tropicana is tentatively set for October. Bally’s Corp chairman Soo Kim confirmed the planned timeline in a statement released at the end of March. According to a demolition company that has imploded several Strip resorts before, Tropicana is planned to be demolished via implosion, although this has not been confirmed by Bally’s Corporation. In order for an implosion to proceed, Bally’s Corporation has to achieve a checklist of requirements, including securing dust control and asbestos abatement permits, creating crowd and traffic control plans, and securing a special events permit. Several local and state entities would need to approve the implosion.
DURANGO LAUNCHING ADULTS-ONLY “RECESS FRIDAYS”
Durango is launching its “Recess Fridays” at Bel-Aire Backyard for guests aged 21 and older starting May 3. Locals and visitors can party and dance from 4 to 10 p.m. every Friday through September. For more details visit the Durango website.
VEGAS ELVIS FEST
Vegas Elvis Fest returns June 13 – 15. Join the best Elvis Tribute Artists in the world as they pay tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. The festival features four shows and three Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Preliminary Contest rounds. Visit the Vegas Elvis Fest website for further details.
APRIL 2024 HAPPENINGS
FREE CONCERT SERIES ON FREMONT STREET
Every Friday in April, Fremont Street will have a free performance by iconic artists spanning multiple genres. Catch performances from pop icons from the Pop 2000 Tour hosted by Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC with O-Town, BBMAK, Ryan Cabrera and LFO (April 5); rock groups Alien Ant Farm & The Ataris (April 12); hip-hop stars The Sugarhill Gang & Tag Team (April 19); and pop-punk legends Lit (April 26). The Free April Fridays concert series is a warmup to the iconic and highly anticipated 2024 Downtown Rocks free concert series kicking off Memorial Day Weekend.
ANTIQUES ROADSHOW COMING TO LAS VEGAS
The five-city 2024 production tour for the Antiques Roadshow kicks off May 1 at Springs Preserve, where three episodes will be recorded. Each ticketed guest can bring two items for experts to appraise. Antiques Roadshow has been delighting lucky guests with appraisals of their knickknacks since 1997.
MARGARITAVILLE CLOSING
For more than 20 years, Margaritaville, after the iconic song from Jimmy Buffet, has occupied a street-front space at the Flamingo. But, the restaurant is closing when their lease expires in June (reservations are no longer being accepted after April 15). The shuttering of Margaritaville continues the food and drink changes occurring at the Flamingo, including the addition of a new Vanderpump (Pinky’s) and Gordon Ramsay (Gordon Ramsay Burger) restaurant in summer 2024.
TREVI ITALIAN RESTAURANT CLOSED
Trevi Italian Restaurant closed unexpectedly at the Forum Shops inside Caesars Palace. The restaurant was located next to the shopping center’s fountain and featured an ancient Roman decor.
SAMMY’S ISLAND COMING TO THE PALMS
This summer, Sammy Hagar and Palms Casino Resort are introducing Sammy’s Island! Take a trip to a tropical pool getaway inspired by the music and Baja beach vibe of the Rocker himself at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas with the official debut on May 17. With a poolside restaurant, tiki bar, and Tequileria, the oasis will feature a blend of delicious food from Baja Breakfast Burritos to Shrimp Ceviche, plus refreshing cocktails made with Sammy’s signature spirits, including the signature Maui-jito crafted with Beach Bar Rum, margaritas and flights made with Santo Tequila & Mezquila, and canned cocktails like the Red Rocker Lager. And of course, it wouldn’t be Sammy’s Island without the music! It will host live poolside events throughout the summer featuring a variety of musical acts from headline performances to some of Vegas’ favorite local entertainers. On Saturday through Monday, the pool will feature top DJs spinning sets of music to keep the Sammy’s Island vibes going strong all weekend long.
COMO POOLSIDE CAFE & BAR OPENED AT BELLAGIO
Bellagio is giving pool season a big upgrade with its new outdoor dining experience – COMO Poolside Cafe & Bar. COMO’s main dining area seats up to 150 guests overlooking Bellagio’s garden, and includes a 30-seat bar top with TVs. Guests can enjoy the all-day Mediterranean-inspired dining experience offering breakfast and lunch. Apertivo Hour begins at 5 p.m. to serve early evening cocktails. COMO is available to both hotel and non-hotel guests.
INDEPENDENT MOVIE INDUSTRY EVENT MOVING TO PALMS
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) announced that the American Film Market (AFM) will be held at the Palms Casino Resort November 5 – 10. The event is described as an opportunity for professionals from the independent film industry for networking, conferences and development. It also serves as the annual fundraiser for the IFTA.
COMMISSIONERS APPROVE PROPOSED MOVIE STUDIO
Clark County commissioners approved zoning plans for a new film production studio proposed in the Summerlin area of Las Vegas. Howard Hughes Corp. and Sony Pictures are partnering on the project which would be located at the corner of Flamingo Road and Town Center Drive and is expected to cover about 31 acres.
SPHERE LAUNCHES STUDENT DESIGN CHALLENGE
The Sphere announced that it is launching the inaugural Sphere XO Student Design Challenge with the prize of featuring artwork on the Exosphere. The theme of the challenge is around the 4th of July. Eight winners, ranging from elementary school through college, will be chosen via general public voting and a panel of professional artists who have created work for the Exosphere. Winning artwork will debut on the Exosphere on July 4, and the winning students will receive a $10,000 scholarship from Sphere Entertainment. Students from elementary and middle schools will also win a $10,000 donation for their school’s art program, plus an invitation to see the Sphere in the fall. Contest entry rules are available on the sphere website.
SPHERE TO HOST FIRST KEYNOTE EVENT
The Sphere will host its first-ever keynote event in June as part of a Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) conference. The keynote address will be delivered by HPE President & CEO Antonio Neri on June 18 as part of HPE Discover 2024. The Sphere Atrium has a seating capacity of 17,600 and a 160,000 square foot LED screen that wraps around the audience.
DANCING WITH THE STARS’ GLEB SAVCHENKO JOINING CHIPPENDALES CAST
Professional dancer and Dancing With The Stars pro Gleb Savchenko was recently announced at the latest celebrity guest host of the Chippendales show in Las Vegas. He will make an appearance in three weeks of shows from April 25 – May 12 at the Rio Hotel & Casino. Savchenko joins a list of notable names to appear at the popular Las Vegas show, including Vinny Guadanigno from Jersey Shore, and supermodel Tyson Beckford. Chippendales performs Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday at 8 p.m., with an additional show on Friday & Saturday at 10:30 p.m.
NEW VEGAS LOOP TUNNELS APPROVED
The Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA) recently approved two new Vegas Loop tunnels which will run underneath Paradise Road for approximately two miles down to UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center. The two new tunnels will move convention center traffic south and ultimately to the airport. County officials are also considering a proposal from the Las Vegas Raiders to have a Las Vegas Loop station at Allegiant Stadium.
NEW TORTAZO LOCATION COMING TO CAESARS PALACE
Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless will open a new Tortazo location at Caesars Palace this summer. Tortazo is described as a fast-casual Mexican restaurant that features tacos, quesadillas and house-made churros. Tortazo already has locations in New York and Chicago.
SLOTS-A-FUN AT CIRCUS CIRCUS UPDATED
Slots-A-Fun is a 16,733-square-foot casino attached to Circus Circus that has been nearly empty for the past 10 years. But, that is changing. Recently, Circus Circus updated Slots-A-Fun by adding vintage coin slots and live table games, and reopening the bar that features $2 beer, hot dogs and shrimp cocktails.
WYNN UNVEILS REVELRY – A CULINARY FESTIVAL
This summer Wynn will unveil Revelry – an all-new culinary festival that will bring together some of the world’s most esteemed chefs, best-in-class vintners, mixologists, art installations, and live entertainment. The festival will take place June 5 – 8, and will include intimate master classes, inventive collaborative dinners, and a speakeasy concept. Details about the festival, including the available culinary experiences and feasts, and ticketing/reservations are available online.
BLAKE SHELTON TO HEADLINE GRAND OPENING CONCERTS AT OLE RED
Blake Shelton will headline back-to-back concerts at Ole Red on April 16 & 17. The concerts are part of an official week-long grand opening celebration at the restaurant. The week will include giveaways, on-site prizes, and performances from multiple country acts, including contestants from The Voice. To win tickets for Shelton’s concerts, fans can enter a sweepstakes. There is also chances to win through Ole Red’s social media accounts. Those fans that don’t win tickets will be able to stream a portion of the concert.
ATOMIC GOLF NOW OPEN
Atomic Golf opened at The STRAT on March 22. The 100,000 square foot venue features 103 golfing bays, a 212-yard range, six bars, and a putting district with eight digital putting bays. The venue also features special artwork that pays homage to the Arts District. Atomic Golf is open Monday through Wednesday 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2024 EDC LINEUP ANNOUNCED
The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) announced the lineup for the 2024 event which is scheduled for May 17 – 19. EDC will include over 230 artists who will perform across nine stages. Some of the big name artists performing include: Tiesto, David Guetta, Kascade, Diplo, Deadmau5, and many more. There are also a number of artists making their debut this year at the festival. The theme of this year’s festival is #kineticCIRCLE which celebrates the impact that circles have on our lives – circles of time, circles of trust and circles of community. There are changes to the festival layout this year, including relocating some stages, additional seating, and the addition of a saloon-style bar. Resorts World will once again transform into Hotel EDC for the festival.
GAMING MACHINE MAKERS ANNOUNCE MERGER
Gaming machine manufacturers IGT and Everi announced plans to merge forming a combined business valued at $6.2 billion. Both companies manufacture slot machines and other gaming technologies. IGT shareholders would own approximately 54% in the new company while Everi shareholders would own the remaining 46%. Everi will become the parent company but will change their name to International Game Technology Inc. The merger is expected to be completed later this year or in early 2025, pending stockholder and regulatory approval.
LAPA LOUNGE OPENING AT RIO IN JUNE
The Rio Hotel & Casino recently announced renderings for the Lapa Lounge which is inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Lapa neighborhood. The new design features a ceiling adorned with golden-textured brass monkeys and jaguars, circling a blown glass chandelier while the honey onyx bar top is surrounded by teak accents and chairs covered in animal-inspired patterns. The updated lounge is scheduled to open in June.
CRASH N BURN NOW OPEN
A new skydiving and dining experience opened on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas on March 21 on the third floor of the Neonopolis Building. Crash N Burn is a 14,000 square foot entertainment venue that features a variety of vintage video games, lawn games and flying fun. There is also a patio overlooking Fremont Street with an indoor and outdoor bar and VIP event space for dining. In the evening, the space turns into a 21-and-over nightclub. Aero Vegas “Adrenaline Elevated” will open its high-flying adventure alongside Crash N Burn this summer.