Vegas Happenings 7/1/23
Discover more from Las Vegas Round The Clock
Vegas Happenings 7/1/23
MICHAEL JACKSON ONE Celebrates 10 Years at Mandalay Bay - LEGENDS IN CONCERT “LEGENDARY DIVAS” 40TH Anniversary performance, and more
Michael Jackson ONE Celebrates a 10 Years at Mandalay Bay
On the evening of June 29, Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil celebrated 10 years of sensational performances in the state-of-the-art, surround-sound theater at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino with a special anniversary show in front of a sold-out audience filled with VIPs (including yours truly) and longtime fans.
Since premiering in 2013, more than 5 million guests have experienced this electrifying, beautifully staged production that features an extremely talented cast of performers and dancers, great choreography, dynamic acrobatics, special effects, mesmerizing visuals, and even some magic, set to the King of Pop’s iconic discography. There isn’t a lackluster moment in the show, but the highlight is a show stopping number featuring a holographic image of Michael Jackson performing “Man In the Mirror” alongside several dancers that is both mind blowing and emotionally moving. You would swear Michael Jackson was alive and well and actually performing in person on the stage.
The celebratory night concluded with the Michael Jackson ONE cast taking the stage, at which point they received a well-deserved standing ovation. For avid fans who love the late King of Pop and his music, I highly recommend this very entertaining, memorable show. If you haven’t yet seen it, put Michael Jackson ONE on your must see list. I absolutely loved it and I am sure you will, too.
Michael Jackson ONE performs Thursday – Monday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m
Legends in Concert “Legendary Divas” 40th Anniversary Performance
The acclaimed tribute show Legends in Concert, celebrated its 40 Year Anniversary on Tuesday evening, June 27 with a spectacular all new Vegas production featuring live tributes to “Legendary Divas” Cher, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga & Dolly Parton.
With 22,000 performances and counting, Legends in Concert is the longest running show in Las Vegas history, which is no surprise. If you’ve ever seen the show, you know why. Some of the best celebrity impersonators in the business throughout the years have joined the cast as tribute artists using their own live, soundalike voices, looks, mannerisms and costumes to create a “legendary” performance that is guaranteed to wow all their audiences.
Returning as the Celebrity Host is none other than Las Vegas’ most famous Diva, aka the Queen of Las Vegas, Frank Marino, with his portrayal of the late comedian Joan Rivers, looking oh-so-fabulous in several costume changes that includes a designer suit and eye popping, colorful gowns.
Backed by a live band, two additional vocalists, and several gorgeous and talented dancers, each of the four celebrity impersonators that pay tribute to music’s legendary divas do a fantastic job.
Karen Hester, who was crowned the winner of Jimmy Fallon’s Clash of the Cover Bands®, portrays the larger than life country superstar Dolly Parton to perfection singing some of Dolly’s greatest hits such as “9 to 5”, “Jolene”, and “Here I Go Again”. Jazmine performs as the late, great Whitney Houston with the vocal power and passion of “Greatest Love of All” and ‘I Will Always Love You” and the more upbeat “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and “I’m Your Baby Tonight”, before Annika Starander Weaver hits the stage as the incomparable, timeless diva Cher singing “If I Could Turn Back Time”, “I Believe in Love” and “In His Kiss”. And Tierney Allen, joins the cast, embodying Lady Gaga in a spot on performance that includes “I Was Born This Way”, “Bad Romance” and “Poker Face’.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Las Vegas history together at The Orleans Hotel and Casino with this dream cast and all the legendary fans that have supported our production for over four decades,” said Mark Mercer, VP Legends in Concert’s Special Engagements.
“I am so excited to once again be part of Legends in Concert as it makes history in Las Vegas as being the Longest Running Show ever. Their 40-year run has simultaneously coincided with my 39-year run as Las Vegas’s Longest Running Headliner proving that the art of celebrity impersonation is still alive and well in Sin City”, said Frank Marino.
Legends in Concert performs this very special engagement for only 11 must-see shows beginning Monday, June 26 through Saturday, July 8, 2023, at the Orleans Showroom at The Orleans Hotel and Casino. Showtimes are 9pm Thursday through Monday, and 7pm Tuesday & Wednesday (dark Sunday). A special $40 ticket is available using code LIC40.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
On June 15, The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod welcomed guests to celebrate the grand opening of SWIM & SOCIAL, the property’s picturesque new destination to sip, swim and socialize. Set to the elevated backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip, the event showcased small bites and cocktails from Swim & Social Café, as well as live entertainment and games.
Stephen Thayer, vice president and general manager of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod, welcomed guests to the celebration, which included Council members Olivia Diaz and Cedric Crear, among others. Thayer led the Las Vegas dignitaries in a celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony, set in front of the main pool.
The celebration included a surprise “Splash Mob,” featuring a performance by Uzeyer Novruzov, a talented ladder acrobat from season 10 of America’s Got Talent. Novruzov initiated the “Splash Mob” routine by knocking a performer into the pool, after which a group of synchronized swimmers entertained guests.
A sampling of small dishes and cocktails from the destination’s full-service restaurant and bar, Swim & Social Café, included shrimp ceviche, chicken teriyaki skewers and ahi tuna tacos, as well as Peach Party, S&S Favorite and Blue Hawaiian cocktails. The ultimate party band, Yacht & Roll, provided the musical entertainment, while games like cornhole, giant Jenga and Connect Four welcomed friendly competition and poolside socializing.
Now open, admission is complimentary for hotel guests and available to non-hotel guests for $15. Minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
On June 14, BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, concluded the four-day BetMGM POKER CHAMPIONSHIP AT ARIA RESORT & CASINO nearly tripling the number of entries and prize pool from the previous year. Michigan’s Leo Taffe emerged as the winner and took home the $560,442 top prize for the BetMGM Poker Championship that started on June 9th in ARIA’s Poker Room and ended on June 13th at the PokerGO Studio. Taffe, 24, an online poker player from Ann Arbor, Michigan, shattered his previous biggest single-tournament winnings ($182,000).
THE BETMGMPOKER CHAMPIONSHIP’s final prize pool of $3.2 million surpassed the $2 million guarantee. The $3,500 buy-in no limit Hold ‘em tournament drew a field of 1,026 including 110 BetMGM online qualifiers. Debuting in 2022, the BetMGM Poker Championship at ARIA experienced tremendous year-over-year growth. Last year’s event had 343 entries and a $1.1 million prize pool with Joey Wiseman winning $224,236.
Mike Vanier finished second ($392,704) losing to Taffe in heads-up play. Other notables who cashed in included Global Poker Index Player of the Year Stephen Song (4th - $188,193), BetMGM ambassador Darren Elias (91st - $7,256), and former Major League Baseball player Jason Kipnis (107th - $6,534).
The new “WORLD FAMOUS CARD SHOP” opened its doors from 6- 9 pm on Sunday, June 18, 2023 for a soft opening. The World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop (home of the ‘Pawn Stars’) introduced this newest venture to focus on the world of Trading Card Games (TCG) collecting and gameplay. The concept behind this new business is to help promote up and coming Trading Card Games and to host Learn & Plays and Trade Nights and eventually tournaments. The World Famous Card Shop offers a safe place for those learning about the industry allowing them to understand the nuances of the business and tournaments before moving on to more advanced competition. In addition, the space will be available for hosting private events for those interested in the TCG community. The World Famous Card Shop is located at Pawn Plaza, 725 Las Vegas Boulevard South, just south of the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, home to HISTORY’s “Pawn Stars.”
On Friday, June 23, Las Vegas’ local's casino, PALACE STATION, launched an all-new weekly poolside event, PALACE LATIN NIGHT. Guests will be welcomed to spice up their evening with a sultry evening escape featuring live music, dance lessons, drink specials and more.
Taking place every Friday night from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., the casino will transform its pool deck into the ultimate dance destination to kick-off the weekend. Featuring vivacious sounds by Puro Vicente Space to Pace and DJ Mistake, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy unbeatable drink specials; tasty eats served up by Tacos & Tequila; and complimentary salsa lessons to keep the dance floor packed all night long. General admission is complimentary and available to guests 21 and up.
THE HOSPITALITY SHOW (The Show) debuted at THE VENETIAN RESORT LAS VEGAS June 27-29, completing a highly successful inaugural year for the event, which drew more than 3,500 attendees and 300 vendors. The Show is a brand-new operations and technology event, created in partnership by The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Questex, uniquely designed for the entire hospitality ecosystem to help hotels operate more efficiently and profitably. The Show reached an important milestone prior to its opening, when it sold every available vendor space on the expo floor, a rare achievement for a first-year event of this size and scope. The Show attendees enjoyed two days of main-stage sessions led by iconic leaders, solutions-driven programming and case studies of profitable operations, as well as 13+ hours of networking opportunities.
IMAGINARIUM, an all-ages immersive outdoor 3D light festival, located in the WESTGATE LAS VEGAS’ north parking lot, has added live circus performers to all remaining dates. The attraction opens nightly at 7 p.m. and runs through Sunday, July 9. Guests will be treated to three nightly 30-minute circus performances which will feature traditional acts including comedy, hula hoops, contortionists and jugglers at 8, 9 and 10 p.m. Tickets start at just $14.
Restaged and reimagined, AWAKENING, a modern “only-in-Las Vegas” spectacle, returned to WYNN LAS VEGAS on June 30. Set in one of the most technologically immersive theaters ever created AWAKENING features new acrobatics, soaring aerialists, and choreography that fill the multi-level stage, driven by an original musical score delivered through a custom sound system.
Directed by Baz Halpin with new choreography by Emmy® Award-winning choreographer Mandy Moore (La La Land, Dancing with the Stars, Taylor Swift), the 80-minute production is packed with dynamic movement set to vibrant new music. The 360-experience conceived and created by Bernie Yuman, Baz Halpin, and Michael Curry, and narrated by two-time Academy Award®-winner Anthony Hopkins, includes new couture costumes, comedic moments, stunning puppetry, and grand illusion.
Performances of Awakening are Friday – Tuesday at 7 p.m., with an additional performance at 9:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays. The show is dark on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Ticket prices range from $99 to $179 plus tax and applicable fees, with a special VIP package available for $279 plus tax and fees. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Box Office at Wynn Las Vegas.
PALMS CASINO RESORT has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2023 TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARD TOP HOTEL WINNER. The coveted award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveler reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor globally.
Station Casinos has announced that GREEN VALLEY RANCH RESORT SPA & CASINO will undergo a property wide transformation this year. Beginning with the unveiling of an all-new casino bar, Polaris, on June 23, the premier Henderson resort destination is set to add two exciting new dining offerings by renowned chefs, Eric and Bruce Bromberg of Bromberg Bros. Blue Ribbon Restaurants and introduce elegant high-limit slots and table games rooms, over the next year. The property also recently showcased a newly refreshed pool and cabanas experience at the Backyard.
THE NEON MUSEUM, (located at 770 Las Vegas Boulevard North) the non-profit organization dedicated to collecting and preserving Las Vegas’ most iconic neon signage, has partnered again with Blue Star Museums to offer free general admission to active-duty military personnel and their families this summer. Tickets will be available through Labor Day, Sept. 4, as part of Blue Star Museums. Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and participating museums across America. The free general admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard as well as members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps—and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into The Neon Museum.
VEGAS STAND UP & ROCK AT OYO HOTEL & CASINO presents BARZ & NOTEZ, the new 9 p.m. Sunday residency brought to the stage by the visionary team at Black 11 Entertainment that mixes laughter and live music. This electrifying new show brings together the nation’s funniest touring comedians alongside an incredible all-female live performance band. This powerhouse ensemble effortlessly blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rock and Top 40 hits that will have you grooving to the beat and captivated by their vocal talents. Vegas Stand Up & Rock also hosts nightly comedy with nationally touring comedians at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays through Sundays as well as live entertainment at 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests must be 18 years or older to attend all shows. Comedy ticket prices start at $29.95 plus taxes and fees; live music tickets start at $10 plus taxes and fees.
THE STILL, located inside THE MIRAGE HOTEL & CASINO, invite guests to sip, savor and unwind with live music every Friday this summer beginning June 30 through the end of the season. Las Vegas’ most talented musicians will amplify patrons’ dining experiences with rock and roll and country tunes from 8 to 11 p.m. every Friday. The Still promises an evening of toe-tapping performances by an exceptional lineup of local performers, including ZACH RYAN on Friday, June 30, who is known for his dynamic stage presence and soulful sound; JASE NARON on Friday, July 7, a rising star in the country music scene; and DAN FESTER on Friday, July 14, a seasoned rock musician.
THE PUNK ROCK MUSEUM, located at 1422 Western Ave., between the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown, invites guests of all ages to enjoy FREE ADMISSION admission on their birthday with the proof of a valid I.D. No reservations are required; guests can redeem their free admission at the museum box office. The Punk Rock Museum is open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday. from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Registration opens for the 19th ANNUAL LAS VEGAS GREAT SANTA RUN on July 1. As one of the primary fundraisers for Opportunity Village, participation in the 5k run or 1-mile Kris Kringle Jingle walk directly supports people with disabilities in Southern Nevada. This year, the Las Vegas Great Santa Run, presented by Circle K, is scheduled for Dec. 2 in Downtown Las Vegas. The festivities begin at 8 a.m., with the 5k run starting at 10 a.m. The 1-mile Kris Kringle Jingle starts at 10:30 a.m. To register, visit www.lvsantarun.com. Registration is $25 per participant during the Christmas in July early-bird pricing. The Las Vegas Great Santa Run is an all-ages event, and children under 3 are free. For those who prefer a virtual experience, simply select the virtual option during registration and complete your run by Dec. 2. Pets are also welcome to attend the Las Vegas Great Santa Run, with a $10 pet registration that includes a pet swag bag.
Las Vegas Great Santa Run participants can earn a prize for fundraising, beginning with a $5 donation. Prizes range from free hot chocolate at The Magical Forest to a three-day cruise in Baja, Mexico. In addition, teams of 20 or more people also receive special discount registration pricing when registering together: $25 per person until Sept. 30, and $35 per person until Nov. 19 when team registration closes.
The poker community and poker fans around the world are invited to join in a HEARTFELT CELEBRATION of the remarkable life and enduring legacy of DOYLE "TEXAS DOLLY" BRUNSON. This special event will take place on July 2 at noon in the JUBILEE THEATRE AT HORSESHOE LAS VEGAS. Beyond his achievements as a player, Doyle Brunson revolutionized how the game of poker is taught. His iconic books, including "Super/System," "Super/System II," and "The Godfather of Poker," became authoritative resources in poker instruction and continue to inspire generations of players. The event promises to be a moving tribute, featuring cherished memories and heartfelt remarks from Doyle's closest friends and family. Renowned poker legends such as Jack Binion, Lyle Berman, Dewey Tomko, Billy Baxter, Eric Drache, Phil Hellmuth, and Daniel Negreanu will be among those sharing their reflections on Doyle's extraordinary legacy.
This event is FREE of charge and open to the public. Doors to the Jubilee Theater will open at 11:30 a.m. and seating will be first come, first served. Join the event that will honor the life of a true poker icon and celebrate Doyle Brunson’s lasting impact on the game we love.
THE BARBERSHOP CUTS & COCKTAILS, an upscale barbershop and Prohibition-era lounge inside THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS, will celebrate the Fourth of July with a special Independence Day session of “FADED KARAOKE” on Tuesday, July 4. “Faded Karaoke” gives guests a chance to join the band at The Barbershop and live their rockstar fantasies while showcasing their appreciation for Independence Day with a catalog packed with American rock classics such as “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “American Girl” and “American Pie,” among others. Guests can sip on the lounge’s signature smoked cocktail, while enjoying the star-spangled selections making it an ideal drink for guests wanting to also celebrate the holiday.
The entire Las Vegas valley is invited to celebrate Independence Day at the 29th ANNUAL SUMMERLIN COUNCIL PATRIOTIC PARADE, Southern Nevada’s largest and most colorful Fourth of July parade. American spirit will be on full display at this year’s parade with 70 entries, including a 40-foot American Eagle, 30-foot Grand Old Flag plus 18 more giant inflatable balloons, veteran and military organizations, both patriotic and pop culture-themed floats and performing groups. A fan favorite, the 2023 STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS, represented by Zach Whitecloud, The Golden Knight, The Knight Line and Vegas Vivas, return to the parade, along with the Las Vegas Aviators. Special guests for this year’s parade will be Nevada Governor JOE LOMBARDO along with Lieutenant Governor STAVROS ANTHONY who will help kick off the parade, which will be held from 9 am - 11 am and is FREE and open to the public. The parade begins at the corner of Hillpointe Rd. and Hills Center Dr. in The Trails village of Summerlin. Participants travel south toward Village Center Circle, then west on Trailwood Drive. The parade ends near the corner of Trailwood Drive and Spring Gate Lane. Parade/viewing set-up is allowed before July 3 at 7 a.m. Items placed before this time will be removed and donated. All persons and their property must remain on the curb.
THE PLAZA HOTEL & CASINO will again celebrate the 4th of July with its ANNUAL FIREWORKS SHOW – the only one in downtown Las Vegas – lighting up the sky on Tuesday, July 4 at 9 p.m. Hotel guests will get to exclusive opportunity to watch the fireworks from the Plaza’s rooftop pool deck with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Staged from multiple locations on the Plaza’s roofs and towers, the fireworks will be an amazing show for people downtown and visible for miles beyond. To allow for prime viewing of the fireworks and increased pedestrian traffic, Main Street will be closed to vehicular traffic for a limited time from Carson Avenue to Ogden Avenue.
July’s FIRST FRIDAY event on July 7 will celebrate ‘Freedom,’ honoring local veterans with a special pin ceremony at 7:00 p.m. by the Southern Nevada Veteran Advocacy Program and Forgotten Not Gone. The featured artist will be MASON CAMPBELL, who specializes in drawing and digital art. The art walk area on Boulder Avenue and First Street in downtown Las Vegas will feature an estimated sixty First Friday artists and craftspeople. From 5:00 p.m. local talent will be featured throughout the night. Plant based Plaza returns with food trucks and activities.
The College of Southern Nevada, School of Arts & Letters, and Department of Fine Arts will host AN EXHIBITION FEATURING FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY by Treasure Valley Community College and CSN faculty, Jennifer Saracino. JENNIFER SARACINO: SPACES. Spaces will open on Friday, July 7 and run through Saturday, September 16, 2023, in THE ARTSPACE GALLERY, located upstairs above the main entrance lobby on the North Las Vegas Campus of the College of Southern Nevada (3200 E. Cheyenne Avenue, one-mile East of I-15 North). Saracino's artmaking process is informed by her teachings of the foundation of art, and her pieces have strong structural ties in the compositional principles she teaches. Currently she is using a transfer printing process to put her photography to aluminum plates. The images obtain a special depth and nuance with this process that enhances the original composition, one that can only truly be appreciated in person. The CSN Artspace Gallery is free, family friendly, and open to the public.
The musical traditions of "The March King" John Philip Sousa, continue at UNLV in July as the NATIONAL COMMUNITY BAND, a project of the John Philip Sousa Foundation, presents a FREE CONCERT, open to the public at 3:30 p.m. on July 9 in ARTEMUS W. HAM CONCERT HALL. The 100-member concert band is composed of adult amateur musicians from around the country and will be led by Col. John R. Bourgeois, director emeritus of the U.S. Marine Band, The President’s Own, in Washington, D.C. According to Bourgeois, “the concert will have music for everyone, from a Beethoven transcription to Scott Joplin’s A Real Slow Drag. Along with great continental marches and marches of Sousa, there will be music from Academy Award-nominated composer, Julie Giroux.”
The John Philip Sousa Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the promotion of international understanding through the medium of band music. Through the administration of band related projects, the group seeks to uphold the standards and ideals of that icon of the American spirit, John Philip Sousa.
Local minority women-founded nonprofit organization, YOGA HAVEN, will celebrate its 7th Anniversary with a special SEVA GATHERING ARTS & MUSIC EVENT Saturday, July 15, from 5 – 8 p.m. at ART WAVY STUDIO & SHOWROOM INSIDE THE ARTS FACTORY, 107 E. Charleston Blvd., Unit 246, in downtown Las Vegas. The event will raise funds for their free yoga and meditation programs that support and empower trauma survivors of all ages. The event will feature light bites, libations, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, as well as local artists, Janel Raihl and David Soto. Tickets are $100 per person. 100% of the proceeds will support Yoga Haven’s programs. To purchase tickets or sponsorships, or for more information, visit https://www.yogahaven.org/seva-gathering/
MINUS 5º ICEBAR at The LINQ PROMENADE will host at its 3rd annual CHRISTMAS IN JULY on Thursday, July 20. The destination’s outdoor patio will transform into a winter wonderland with a life-sized snowman built with real snow, a live ice carving demonstration, live Christmas music by Troy Romzek, snow blowers and more. Meanwhile, the inside of the ice attraction will feature interactive Christmas-themed ice sculptures, festive décor and staff donning Santa hats and holiday attire. Visitors to Minus5º ICEBAR can also enjoy photo opportunities with Santa Claus dressed in his festive summer wardrobe. In addition, guests 21 years or older can enjoy a Christmas-inspired menu of chilly cocktails served in signature ice glasses or super daiquiris, available for $12.25 each. The “Cool Package” for entry into the ice attraction will also be discounted to $12.25 per person throughout the day.
THE BATTLE FOR VEGAS hosted by Reilly Smith returns to Las Vegas Ballpark® at Downtown Summerlin® on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. The star-studded charity softball event gives fans the chance to watch their favorite stars in action as the teams “battle” it out for Las Vegas’ ultimate bragging rights, all for a good cause. The softball showdown features two all-star teams of professional athletes and celebrities, led by Reilly Smith of the Vegas Golden Knights and friends vs. Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders and friends.The roster for Team Reilly includes Captain Reilly Smith and current Vegas Golden Knights members Jack Eichel, Keegan Kolesar, Nic Hague, Logan Thompson and Shea Theodore – to name a few.The roster for Team Maxx includes Captain Maxx Crosby and current Las Vegas Raiders members David Long Jr., Dylan Parham, Nate Hobbs, Tre’von Moehrig, Daniel Carlson and AJ Cole.
Gates open on Saturday, July 22 at 5:30 p.m. This year the Battle for Vegas has collaborated with Las Vegas Grand Prix Foundation, the philanthropic organization of the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX for THE HOME RUN DERBY, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. with the opening pitch at 7:30 p.m. A flyover is planned with special appearances by mascots Chance, Spruce the Goose, Aviator and others. The event will conclude with a post-game firework display presented by Century Gaming Technologies.
The initial event launched in 2019 and has raised over $550,000 for deserving local charities. This year’s Battle for Vegas will benefit the Vegas Golden Knights Foundation with funds distributed to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada and the Public Education Foundation.
New for 2023 is a BATTLE FOR VEGAS FAN FEST event which will take place 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday, July 21 and 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 22 on The Lawn at Downtown Summerlin. The Fan Fest will feature family-friendly interactive games, plus food, drinks and appearances from players. Entry to Fan Fest is free and open to the public. Tickets for the Battle for Vegas charity softball game are on sale. General ticket prices begin at $35 for the game.
Some of the biggest artists and hits from the 80s and the Y2K era are ready to make a splash at SOAK Pool at Palms. Enjoy reggae under the stars featuring UB40 with JUNIOR MARVIN & THE LEGENDARY WAILERS AND BIG MOUNTAIN on Saturday, July 22, and the catchy tunes everyone loves with POP 2000 featuring SMASH MOUTH, CHRIS KIRKPATRICK of *NSYNC, O-TOWN, THE CALLING, LFO, on Saturday, Aug. 19. Shows are 21+ only and tickets and cabanas for both shows are now on sale. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the shows beginning at 9 p.m.
THE PUNK ROCK MUSEUM (located at 1422 Western Ave., between the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown) will host SPECIAL GUIDED TOURS AND PROGRAMMING with musician and comedian FRED ARMISEN and singer and TV show host DAMIAN ABRAHAM in July. On Sunday, July 23 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., Armisen will lead two exclusive guided tours followed by a livestream event on “Turned Out A Punk,” the punk podcast featuring an array of special guests hosted by Abraham. More surprises are also in store for guests. Abraham will also host guided tours on Monday, July 24 at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. followed by another livestream on “Turned Out A Punk,” including a walkthrough of The Punk Rock Museum with Mike “Fat Mike” Burkett. Lastly, on Tuesday, July 25 at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., Abraham will lead additional guided tours followed by a final livestream on his podcast at the museum. Guests for this special episode have not yet been announced. General admission or guided tour tickets are on sale now.
Award-winning producer and choreographer JENNIFER ROMAS is bringing her slightly indecent and sexually suggestive new production, EXXCITE: THE SHOW to The Duomo Theater inside Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The show, a journey into sensuality with a Rock ‘n’ Roll vibe, will open on July 29 for an extended engagement. This thrill-inducing burlesque production gives a flair of authenticity to the classic showgirl and Vegas glitz and glam but with an erotic, edgy twist. Filled with controversial (and iconic) hip-shaking sex appeal, Exxcite portrays diverse representations of Rock ‘n’ Roll through the years, which ultimately changed the image of female sexuality of today. Exxcite: The Show will perform Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 10pm at The Duomo Theater inside Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Tickets range from $39.00 - $99.00 (+taxes and fees).
Many of Las Vegas’ finest entertainers will join hearts and voices at THE SMITH CENTER for an encore performance of the hit original musical theatre concert “GOD LIVES IN GLASS” at REYNOLDS HALL on Sunday, Aug. 13, at 3 p.m. A portion of proceeds will benefit the nonprofit The Composers Showcase of Las Vegas.
“God Lives in Glass” is an exciting, fun for all ages multicultural and multigenerational community concert event featuring some of Vegas’ favorite musical performers from Broadway and the Las Vegas entertainment community along with exciting new young performers, creating a cast that includes 60 singers, 20 dancers and a 26-piece orchestra led by renowned pianist Philip Fortenberry (The Cocktail Cabaret, Behind the Candelabra).
Las Vegas singers in the cast will include JANIEN VALENTINE, JOEY DEBENEDETTO, NIKI SCALERA, TONY ARIAS, KATIE KERN, BRUCE EWING, ARMI GUZMAN, STEPH PAYNE, REBECCA SPENCER, KRISTEN HERTZENBERG, JIMMY LOCKETT, CHRISTINE HUDMAN PURDY, PAUL BRADLEY, SAM HOLDER, and many more, as well as young artists MOLLY MARTIN, ELIZA BELK, OLIVIA DEASE, CHANDLER SHULMAN, HARPER MISEGADES, GRIFFIN MISEGADES, and many more.
The popular concert will showcase a funny, powerful and emotionally uplifting original score written by Keith Thompson (Jersey Boys, The Composers Showcase), with musical styles ranging from pop to gospel, classical to blues and reggae to R&B. Tickets start at $29.
Hawaiian singer-songwriter JOHN CRUZ is returning to the “Ninth Island” for a special performance under the stars at THE SUNSET SIDE LAWN AT SUNSET STATION on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $32.50 plus applicable fees and wen on sale beginning Monday, June 19, 2023.
Jason Bonham, son of legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, is returning to Las Vegas with a performance of JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EVENING at GREEN VALLEY RANCH RESORT on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023 at 8 p.m. Encompassing hits from the iconic band’s entire career, including albums Led Zeppelin, Led Zeppelin II, Led Zeppelin IV and Physical Graffiti, the concert event celebrates the life and music of Jason’s father, the legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, with “…a band that recreates Led Zeppelin’s music to such a degree that one can’t help but close their eyes and simply listen…” Tickets starting at $37.50 plus applicable fees are on sale now.
Additional recent and upcoming venue openings:
A neighborhood café by day and upscale restaurant and bar by night, 1228 MAIN, located in Downtown Las Vegas’ Arts District at 1228 S. Main St., is now open for breakfast and lunch, along with the bakery and coffee counter. Dinner will follow in late June. 1228 Main brings a San Francisco sensibility to downtown’s laid-back vibe with freshly baked artisanal breads and pastries, craft coffees, beautifully presented dishes, exceptional cocktails, and a fabulous wine collection - all set to an enviable playlist.
Cameron Mitchell Restaurants has officially opened the nearly $20 million marquee restaurant OCEAN PRIME LAS VEGAS located at 63, centered on the bustling corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue. Ocean Prime delivers an extraordinary experience with stunning settings, a chef-curated menu, signature handcrafted cocktails, and a Wine Spectator honored wine list. The menu is both classic and modern, featuring sushi, indulgent seafood presentations, juicy steaks, decadent side dishes and made-from-scratch desserts. This is the 18th Ocean Prime location in the U.S. and will serve as the flagship boasting 14,500 square feet with a nearly 2,500 square-foot rooftop terrace, more than 400 total seats, three bars and three private dining rooms. This premier location is set four stories above the Las Vegas Strip and offers breathtaking views from the restaurant’s outdoor terrace.
This summer, PINE BISTRO – an original concept by AYYA Hospitality Group – will bring a new modern dining experience to Southern Highlands. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine, Pine Bistro will deliver an elevated yet approachable journey through the region’s diverse flavors, culture and nightlife.
Additional restaurant openings:
AREA15 announces its newest eatery, KAIA HANDROLL, is now open inside the immersive art and entertainment District. Offering a vibrant, modern take on sushi handrolls inspired by traditional Japanese flavors and techniques, the destination joins AREA15’s current roster of out-of-this-world cuisine and cocktails.
Celebrity Sightings:
Tuesday, June 13…
After attending the Las Vegas Golden Knights’ exciting Stanley Cup win, “Loki” star OWEN WILSON caught a performance of The Beatles™ LOVE™ by Cirque du Soleil® at The Mirage Hotel & Casino.
Thursday June 15…
The VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS’ VEGAS VIVAS dance team was spotted out at MAGIC MIKE LIVE at SAHARA Las Vegas. Celebrating the team’s first-ever Stanley Cup win, the group was seen on their feet, cheering and dancing along to the thrilling stage spectacular, and roared when dancer Vinnie Castillo took the bar stage in a Vegas Golden Knights jersey to perform the signature “Candy Shop” routine.
Sunday, June 18…
Comedy actors NICOLE BYER (Nailed It!, Why Won’t You Date Me? Podcast) and SASHEER ZAMATA (Saturday Night Live, Home Economics) closed out their weekend girls trip to Las Vegas with a night out at MAGIC MIKE LIVE at SAHARA Las Vegas. All eyes were on the real-life besties, and hosts of the Best Friends Podcast, when they were each brought onstage for a steamy scene – Nicole, receiving an intimate dance from Blair Edwards as “Mike” and Sasheer, later, being adored in French by dancer Anton Engel during the “Male Appreciation” scene.
Fresh off of their championship parade, the VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS dined at DOWNTOWN PRIME AT CIRCA RESORT & CASINO. The Official Steakhouse of the team, Barry’s also hosted the Stanley Cup, the Conn Smythe Trophy and its MVP winner Johnathan Marchessault and the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl. With the entire team in attendance, Chef Barry S. Dakake prepared a feast for the 2023 champions and the team continued to celebrate their historic win in style.
Tuesday, June 21…
KEEGAN KOLESAR and NIC HAGUE, members of the Vegas Golden Knights and recent Stanley Cup champions, made a surprise visit to CLIQUE BAR & LOUNGE, the upscale cocktail lounge inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Monday, June 26…
Following her recent crowning at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Nevada USA 2023 WINNER JOSIE STEPHENS visited MINUS 5º ICEBAR at The Venetian Resort® Las Vegas to support the local business.
