Vegas Happenings 8/11/23
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Vegas Happenings 8/11/23
Mind-bending Paradox Museum Opens in Las Vegas - JD Sports Hosts Grand Opening Weekend at Miracle Mile Shops... and much more!
Mind-bending Paradox Museum Opens in Las Vegas
Paradox Museum Las Vegas, featuring the world’s most extraordinary collection of mind-twisting and eye-tricking exhibits – where nothing makes sense, but everything is real, held an exclusive VIP grand opening celebration on Aug. 2 at 6 p.m.
The 11,000-square-foot destination is the first-of-its-kind on the Las Vegas Strip and includes 90 engaging exhibits combining the fun of exploring brain-bending illusions with the science of paradoxes. More than an entertainment destination, every Paradox Museum exhibit is interactive, including sensory and educational experiences with information about the exciting science behind optical and perceptual effects.
Taking visitors approximately 60 to 90 minutes to navigate, guests can encounter new perspectives at the Paradox Museum, along with the opportunities to defy reality, live their own experiences and take unbelievably cool photos and videos.
The newest Paradox Museum location also includes distinctive Las Vegas-themed exhibits, including the Upside Down Room inspired by the city’s proverbial strip clubs as well as the casino slot machine-themed Ambiguous Shapes Room.
Below photos courtesy of The Vox Agency.
“A first-of-its-kind experience in Las Vegas, Paradox Museum not only provides attention-grabbing, entertaining moments but also leaves visitors in awe as they ponder what they just witnessed,” said Marc Gregory Tipton, regional sales and marketing manager, Paradox Museum Las Vegas.
Paradox Museum Las Vegas is located at 3767 S Las Vegas Blvd, Suite 200 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Hours of operation are subject to change without notice. Parking is available at Showcase Mall located next to Target.
Online tickets for adults and children 12 and up are $35, children 4 to 11 are $31 and children under 3 are free. Family four-packs are available for $124 ($31 per person). Paradox Museum Las Vegas also offers special ticket pricing for private groups, schools and corporate gatherings.
JD Sports Hosts Grand Opening Weekend at Miracle Mile Shops
On Saturday, August 5, internationally recognized sports-fashion retailer, JD Sports, officially opened its first Las Vegas location inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.
The store’s opening weekend was full of exciting activities for fans, including a special appearance by Anthony “Ant-Man” Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
On Saturday morning, the store officially opened with an excited crowd of the brand’s fans lined up for the exclusive Air Jordan shoe release that dropped right as the doors unlocked. A local DJ brought an exciting energy to the opening as shoppers explored the new store. Shoppers also enjoyed delicious treats from Caked Up Las Vegas. “Ant-Man” Edwards was in attendance to surprise shoppers who attended the grand opening. All STATUS members received a tote bag and deck of cards when they shopped at the new location. The excitement continued for the store’s second day of operation on Sunday, August 6, with many more fans enjoying the iconic brand’s newest location with DJs, influencer appearances and more.
Hailing from the UK, JD Sports is a leading retailer of globally minded sportswear and sneakers, combining culturally recognized brands such as Nike, adidas, Jordan, Champion, Vans, and The North Face with self-owned brand labels like Pink Soda Sport and Supply & Demand.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include…
Red Rock Resorts, Inc. announced the anticipated target opening date for DURANGO CASINO & RESORT as November 20, 2023, pending regulatory approval. The all-new luxury resort set to debut in Southwest Las Vegas will offer tourists and locals an exceptional gaming experience, personalized hospitality, premier restaurants, and convenient access along the I-215.
In conjunction with the opening announcement, Durango unveiled its striking new marquee on Thursday, Aug. 3. The captivating display illuminates the casino site as a sequence of engaging content pieces, and the property’s targeted opening date are displayed. The double-sided display is 60 feet high and 55 feet wide, and the marquee will boast high-resolution technology with over six million color LED pixels.
The state-of-the-art resort will feature over 200 hotel rooms, convention and meeting spaces, a resort pool with cabanas, outdoor social areas, and free parking. Durango will offer locals and visitors a best-in-class resort boasting 15 restaurants, including four signature outlets and a food hall set in a dynamic casino environment. Durango will share further details on hotel room availability, and more specifics about the opening in the coming months.
On July 24, PALMS CASINO RESORT and the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority officially welcomed LA POPULAR, the newest restaurant in the resort’s growing culinary collection, with a special ribbon cutting, proclamation, and check presentation of $100,000 to Three Square.
Located on the casino floor, the upscale chef-driven Mexican restaurant is anchored by authentic dishes from Mexico City with a modern twist, an extensive agave-centric cocktail program, and warm hospitality set in a lush, contemporary space.
Palms General Manager Cynthia Kiser Murphey, San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority Chairwoman Latisha Prieto and Eric Berman of Eureka! Restaurant Group along with Commissioner Michael Naft cut the ribbon to officially open La Popular. SMGHA Chairwoman Latisha Prieto presented a check to Three Square representatives Kate Gaines and Will Edwards, Event Marketing Manager.
Following its critically acclaimed one month limited engagement in July, SPIC GIRLS WANNABE: THE SPICE GIRLS TRIBUTE SHOW is being given a permanent residency at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas with shows set to reopen on September 12. Tickets go on sale August 11.
THE COMEDY SHOWROOM AT AHERN HOTEL (300 West Sahara) HOSTED BY FUNNYMAN LORENZO CLARK, will feature the following headliners in August. ROCCO SILANO — an extraordinary sleight-of-hand artist and TV actor, will bring his unique style of magic & comedy to the stage on Friday, August 11 and Saturday, August 12. Joining Rocco will Vegas standup icon & entertainer PENNY WIGGINS. Ventriloquist Comedian MARK MERCHANT is set to headline the Comedy Showroom on Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19. Former L.A. Police Officer turned comedian KEVIN JORDAN will headline on Friday, August 25 and Saturday, August 25. Doors open at 7 p.m. Shows runs 8pm - 9:30 pm. Tickets for each show starts at $50.
Combining a fascinating world of both entertainment and education, MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS LAS VEGAS, the brand’s newest flagship location and largest museum to date, is set to open mid-August. Museum of Illusions is an interactive, immersive experience unlike anything offered in Las Vegas and will highlight various mind-blowing exhibits along with the science behind the expertly crafted illusions. The unique, viral-worthy exhibition will captivate visitors of all ages with an educational and entertaining journey, as each room is designed to play tricks on the mind and further demonstrate how the mystery is solved. Located right on the Strip, in between The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and The Shops at Crystals, Museum of Illusions Las Vegas is the city’s newest must-see attraction for all ages. Early bird tickets are available to purchase now and start at $22. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance as they often sell out fast.
STADIUM SWIM AT CIRCA RESORT & CASINO is partnering with Tennis Channel to serve up a variety of TENNIS MATCH WATCH PARTIES in downtown Las Vegas. The collaboration will bring the action to Stadium Swim’s 143-foot diagonal screen including National Bank Open, Western & Southern Open, Winston Salem Open and Tennis in the Land WTA. The upcoming tennis watch party events include: August 7-13: National Bank Open, August 13-20: Western & Southern Open, August 20-26: Winston Salem Open and Tennis in the Land WTA. Located on the fifth floor of Circa, Stadium Swim is open from 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily. Admission is free to guests of Circa, as well as sister properties the D Las Vegas and Golden Gate Hotel & Casino. General admission prices start at $20. Circa is only open to guests ages 21+ with valid ID.
SAL“THE VOICE” VALENTINETTI, Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent season 11, will be wowing the audience once again with his flawless vocals on Friday, August 18 at 8 p.m. at THE COPA ROOM AT THE BOOTLEGGER Bistro Italian Restaurant, located at 7700 South Las Vegas Boulevard Suite 14. The special show will see the charismatic Valentinetti return after a sold out show last April to once again join producer and performer Dave Damiani and The No Vacancy Orchestra for an evening of Sinatra-inspired tunes and songs from the Great American Songbook. Tickets start at $25. Doors open at 7pm and the show begins at 8pm.
ARIZONA CHARLIE’S DECATUR, located at 740 S. Decatur Blvd. and ARIZONA CHARLIE’S BOULDER, located at 4575 Boulder Hwy., will host HOT BINGO NIGHTS, a 24-hour bingo marathon with a grand prize of $1,000, beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 18 through 7 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19.
THE PUNK ROCK MUSEUM (located at 1422 Western Ave., between the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown) announces the celebration of JOE STRUMMER’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA that will begin on Saturday, Aug. 19. The celebration includes the reveal of new artifacts, including Strummer’s iconic 1966 Fender Telecaster Guitar, original handwritten lyrics, and personal artifacts on loan from the Joe Strummer Estate. The weekend celebration begins a few days before what would have been his 71st birthday on Aug. 21. As the museum pays homage to Strummer's legacy, visitors are invited to experience the transformative power of punk rock and its ability to shape the world for the better. It is with deep respect and admiration to carry forward his enduring message of unity, creativity, and activism. As part of the night’s festive celebration on Aug. 19, there will be a special evening planned in Strummer’s honor with “All The Young Punks!” This birthday celebration will take place in the museum’s Triple Down bar with JR Ska Boss and Selecta Scream DJing, along with more surprises in the works. The Triple Down bar will also feature specialty drinks all weekend.
TAILGATE SOCIAL SPORTS BAR & GRILL, located at Palace Station Hotel and Casino, will host ANNUAL TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP VIEWING PARTIES on tournament days. The sports hotspot will broadcast all evening sessions beginning Monday, Aug. 28 through Saturday, Sept. 9 with the exception of the evening game on Thursday, Sept. 7. Additionally, Tailgate will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday beginning Saturday, Sept. 2 for guests to catch the weekend morning sessions. Tailgate Social will serve an array of game day fare to accompany the exhilarating action.
Trumpeter and singer Brian Newman announced 12 new performance dates of his late-night show BRIAN NEWMAN: AFTER DARK. Newman will perform at the NOMAD LIBRARY at NoMad Las Vegas with all shows scheduled to begin at 11:30 p.m. Newman’s 2023 show dates are: Thursday, Aug. 31, September 2 – 3; 6 – 7; 9 – 10; 28; 30 and October 1; 4 – 5. Serving as the bandleader for the LADY GAGA JAZZ & PIANO resident show at Dolby Live, Brian Newman: AFTER DARKi s reimagining the storied Las Vegas lounge by bringing a swinging, cocktail-swilling ode to “Vintage Las Vegas” to NoMad Library at Park MGM, where classic Vegas vibes never sleep. .Filled with great music and new friends as well as featuring special guest performers from New York, Las Vegas, and beyond, AFTER DARK will be an intimate evening of stars, singing sirens, burlesque queens and icons on stage and screen.The intimate evenings will feature Newman’s partner in everything – burlesque star Angie Pontani. Her quintessential dazzling choreography and performance is the Keely Smith to Newman’s Louis Prima. Tickets starting at $49, plus applicable services charges, go on sale Friday, Aug. 11.
Award-winning superstar Lady Gaga will return to DOLBY LIVE AT PARK MGM with her beloved, critically acclaimed LADY GAGA: JAZZ & PIANO show for a total of 12 performances in 2023 beginning Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023. The shows celebrate her love of the Great American Songbook, and also include some of her biggest hits. 2023 Dates: Thursday, Aug. 31, September 2 – 3, 6 – 7, 9 – 10, 28, 30 and October 1, 4 – 5. Ticket are on sale now.
THE VENETIAN RESORT LAS VEGAS unveiled details surrounding its new nightlife sensation, VOLTAIRE, with the announcement of its first headliner, pop sensation, KYLIE MINOGUE. Blurring the lines between an intimate club, concert, and non-stop entertainment venue, Voltaire will usher in a new destination nightlife scene with Minogue at the forefront in an exclusive U.S residency. The venue’s opening on November 3 kicks off the Australian pop icon’s first Vegas Residency where she will perform tracks from her highly anticipated release “Tension,” alongside many of her greatest hits including “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head” and “All The Lovers.” Tickets, tables, and packages for Kylie’s opening show and ongoing residency go on sale August 9.
The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod and SPI Entertainment have announced that the performances by NIGHT RANGER and STEPHEN PEARCY, originally scheduled for Friday, Sept. 1 and Saturday, Sept. 2, have been moved to Friday, Feb. 16, 2024 and Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024. Tickets will be honored for the rescheduled dates. Those wishing to receive a refund must do so at their original point of purchase. Show times will be at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. Ticket prices start at $75.
RICHARD CHEESE & LOUNGE AGAINST THE MACHINE will return to ROCKS LOUNGE INSIDE RED ROCK RESORT Friday, Sept. 8, 2023 at 9 p.m. America's loudest lounge singer Cheese performs swingin' Vegas versions of rock and rap songs, "swankifying" popular Top40 hits into retro vocal standards. Imagine Sinatra singing Radiohead, and you've got Richard Cheese & Lounge Against The Machine. Tickets start at $40 plus taxes and fees for reserved seating and are on sale now.
Las Vegas artist, STEVEN SPANN will launch his ONE-NIGHT-ONLY EXHIBIT: JACKSON STREET PROJECT, a series of more than thirty large-scale sculptures all created using the rusty and mangled rebar from the tearing up and redevelopment of Jackson Street on the Historic Westside, on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023 from 6 to 9 p.m. With the recent completion of the historic Jackson Street, there is hope to see major redevelopment and new businesses moving into the area. It is the artists hope to make this a national touring show that goes to disadvantaged communities as an opportunity for education on revitalization. This one-night-only exhibit is FREE and open to the public, and will take place at The Doyle, 418 W. Mesquite Ave., 89106 in downtown Las Vegas. No reservations are required.
Due to popular demand, comedian GABRIEL IGLESIAS will perform a third show at THE CHELSEA AT THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS. In addition to his previously announced September 15 – 16 show dates, Iglesias will bring his hilarious comedy to Las Vegas Sunday, Sept. 17. All shows are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.
The second annual RUMBAZO MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION will return to DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS EVENTS CENTER September 15-16, 2023, featuring headliners Ivy Queen, Jay Wheeler, Gera MX, Guaynaa, Lenny Taváres, Lunay and more. RUMBAZO will bring the spirit of El Grito to life with the ultimate block party filled with Latin music, community, food and other surprise experiences. The event is open to guests ages 18+, with full weekend tickets starting at $79.
Imani (Emandu Wilcox), Slimkid3 (Trevant Hardson) and Fatlip (Derrick Stewart) from old-school rap group THE PHARCYDE are reuniting on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at BROOKLYN BOWL LAS VEGAS for a one-night show. Tickets to The Pharcyde at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas start at $29.50.
Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum singer-songwriter, actor and New York Times best-selling author CORY TAYLOR will perform at BROOKLYN BOWL LAS VEGAS on Friday, Sept. 29. One of modern rock music’s most recognizable names, Taylor will be celebrating the release of his sophomore solo album, “CMF2.” Tickets to Corey Taylor at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas start at $35.
International Queen of Burlesque, DITA VON TEESE has announced her premier residency, DITA LAS VEGAS: A Jubilant Revue will be opening in the Jubilee Theater at Horseshoe Las Vegas on Thursday, October 5, 2023. A lifelong aficionado of the iconic Las Vegas show Jubilee, Dita’s new show will merge her signature production with the celebrated Jubilee aesthetic—including incorporating some of the show’s original costumes and sets.
Renowned, all-female Iron Maiden tribute band THE IRON MAIDENS are returning to Las Vegas for a special performance at Chrome Showroom at SANTA FE STATION on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 8 p.m. Tickets for The Iron Maidens are $25 plus applicable fees for general admission. Doors open at 7 p.m. and guests under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. All tickets go on sale Friday, August 11, 2023 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at any Station Casinos Reward Center.
Clark County Parks & Recreation presents the 29th ANNUAL AGE OF CHIVALRY RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL AT SUNSET PARK for three days, October 13 – 15, 2023. The Age of Chivalry is an immersive Renaissance era experience with numerous villages and guilds, activities, historical reenactments, fantasy creations, live performances and an array of foods and beverages – truly an event that is fun for the entire family. The festival boasts more than 100 artisans from throughout the U.S. and Canada including gold and silver smiths, stained glass designers, costume makers, wood workers, toy makers, leather workers, perfume blenders, potters armor makers and many more. The festival will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Pre-sale admission is $15 per day for adults ($25 day of event) and $8 per day for children ages 6-12 and seniors ages 60 and older ($20 day of event). Children 5 and younger are free. The box office will be open at the festival starting at 9:00 a.m. daily during the fair and will accept credit cards only (no cash accepted).
THE ROD EXPERIENCE, featuring CARMINE APPICE & RICK ST. JAMES, will take over the stage inside the M PAVILION at M Resort Spa Casino on Saturday, October 14, 2023. It’s not a tribute; it’s a trip back in time to the legendary period of Rod Stewart, created and spearheaded by Carmine who was part of it. Sit back and enjoy Rick St. James who is generally regarded as the world’s finest performer to play Rod as he looks the part, plays the role, and, most importantly, sings the part to a “T.” Tickets for THE ROD EXPERIENCE, starting at $20 plus taxes and fees, go on sale Friday, August 11, 2023, at 10 a.m.
Registration is now open for the highly anticipated seventh annual juried chalk art competition, CHALKTOBERFEST. Embracing the spirit of the fall season, this family festival will feature a chalk art contest, art fair, pumpkin patch, and more. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14, 2023, as the festivities unfold at SKYE CANYON PARK (10111 W. Skye Canyon Park Dr.) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year's chalk art contest theme is "Colors of the Desert Skye." Artists of all skill levels are invited to unleash their creativity and imaginatively interpret this inspiring theme, as they compete for top honors and enticing cash prizes.The juried competition encompasses three categories: student (ages 12-18), amateur (18+), and professional. Cash prizes await the winners in each category, with $300 for first place, $200 for second place, and $100 for third place. Additionally, there will be two special awards, with $100 cash prizes for the Best 3D piece and the Best Use of Color. As in previous years, attendees will have the chance to cast their votes for the People's Choice winner, who will receive a $100 cash award. Registration is now open for the first 50 artists to secure their spots. Interested artists can register to participate at https://skyecanyon.com/call-to-artists/.
Chart-topping country superstar JAKE OWEN is returning to Las Vegas for a special performance at the SANDBAR STAGE, located poolside at RED ROCK RESORT Friday, Oct. 27, alongside special guests Tyler Booth and Daves Highway. Tickets start at $55 plus taxes and fees and are on sale now.
Additional recent and upcoming restaurant and bar openings:
Treasure Island Las Vegas has opened the BIG CHILL MARGARITA BAR, a brand new venue that serves up refreshing frozen cocktails, perfect for beating the summer heat. Quick and convenient, Big Chill offers an array of flavorful, fruity concoctions with sizes up to a 48-ounce yard. Big Chill also serves a variety of beer on tap and other refreshing cocktails.
RIVER ROCK PIZZA & PASTA, a rockin’ new Italian restaurant now is open at Arizona Charlie’s Decatur, located at 740 S. Decatur Blvd. for dine-in and takeout at 4 p.m. daily.
GAME ON, an all-new sports bar and grill from the creators of the popular Las Vegas destination Blondies will debut later this summer inside Boulder Stations Hotel & Casino. Game On will welcome fans with the perfect combination of sports viewing amenities: bar top gaming, flavorful menu, and a variety of spirits and draft beers, comfortable seating and countless screens for prime viewing. For recreation between games, Game On will also be home to popular bar games Golden Tee and tabletop shuffleboard.
The burger chain, WHATABURGER, which is headquartered and based in San Antonio, Texas, has announced plans to open a new restaurant this fall on the Las Vegas strip, the first in Nevada. The two story restaurant will be located next to Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse in a space adjoining the Waldorf Astoria and will be open 24/7.
Celebrity Sightings:
Tuesday, July 25…
Broadway legend and acclaimed singer-dancer CHITA RIVERA, known for her award-winning roles in West Side Story and Chicago, visited the dazzling production, Awakening, at Wynn Las Vegas.
Wednesday, July 26…
Guests at The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas were delighted by a surprise appearance from Dos Hombres Mezcal co-founders and award-winning actors AARON PAUL and BRYAN CRANSTON. The pair was found behind the bar on the pool deck at The Venetian Resort serving specialty cocktails to guests who were lounging in the summer sun. In addition, the superstars held an intimate tasting of their Dos Hombres Mezcal with invited guests in a luxurious plunge cabana on The Venetian pool deck.