Spending the holidays in Vegas is becoming increasingly common as more and more people flee the snow and head for the sunshine. This city’s over-the-top tendencies don’t stop when the holidays roll around. Everything from festive decor to light displays to special seasonal menus exude holiday spirit.
In an effort to make the most out of your desert holiday experience, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate eating, shopping, and otherwise enjoying the holidays and Christmas in Las Vegas:
Best Places to Shop for Gifts in Vegas
Vegas is one of the best places to be when you need to go shopping for gifts. Whether your loved ones prefer designer goods, gourmet snacks, or casual trinkets, this city has you covered.
-Town Square
Complete with a range of trendy retailers, Town Square is a one-stop-destination for all your holiday gift shopping. Make a day of your outing by dining at one of the many restaurants or stopping into a casual eatery. Town Square offers guests convenience wrapped in an elegant package.
-HEXX Chocolate
HEXX is a beloved Vegas chocolatier specializing in fine, artisanal chocolates. If one of your holiday gift recipients has a sweet tooth, this is the perfect option. HEXX chocolate is created from scratch with cocoa beans from all over the world. According to HEXX, each region brings out a specific flavor in the resulting chocolate, similar to wine. Chocolate can be purchased in single bars or in sample packs so your loved one gets a little taste of each region.
-RAO’s
Rao’s Specialty Foods offers an array of gift baskets during the holiday season, each featuring a unique selection of hand-crafted goodies. This gift is perfect for the food lover in your life, as you can personalize it according to their taste.
Holiday Events and Activities in Vegas
Don’t let the desert foliage and sunshine fool you – Las Vegas gets festive during the holiday season! The city embraces the holidays just like it does everything else – with vigor and extravagance. If you’re spending the holiday season in Sin City, be sure to check out these events:
-VEGAS! THE SHOW Holiday Spectacular
This year, the renowned Vegas production will take on a holiday twist. Additional dance numbers, shimmering decor, and extravagant holiday costumes will decorate the stage. This is a great option for couples and families alike, as the show is open to all ages. Show times are 7 pm and 9 pm nightly.
-Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan
Get a taste of that classic winter weather in the desert by visiting the ice rink at the Cosmopolitan. The fourth floor outdoor pool that draws guests in the Summertime transforms into a Winter wonderland from November to January. S’mores, seasonal cocktails, holiday movies, and festive music add to the ambience. Tickets are $20 ($10 for locals and hotel guests).
-Annual NYE Party at Tahiti Village
Complete with hand-crafted hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight, this party is always one for the books. Guests are greeted with festive decor, a fresh seafood display, and a dance floor pumping with top tunes. Located in the Skyview Lounge of Tower 5, the atmosphere of the party matches the excitement of the evening, providing guests with the perfect place to bring in the New Year in style. Tickets are $135 in advance or $150 at the door.
Easy Meals to Make in Your Suite
If you like to prepare your holiday meals yourself, make sure to stay at a resort that offers suites with fully functional kitchens. Here are a few easy-to-prepare, delicious holiday meals so you can both delight your loved ones and save time and money:
–Glazed Ham with Coriander and Fennel
Add a delicious twist to a Christmas classic. This slightly-salty, slightly-sweet flavor complements nicely with the meat and makes for the perfect holiday dinner.
–Striped Bass With Shallot Vinaigrette
This dish is a lighter alternative to most holiday classics. The delicate bass and tarte vinaigrette combine to create an exceptional flavor that will earn you compliments all day and night.
–Roasted Leg of Lamb with Carrots and Honey-Mint Sauce:
Feeling adventurous? This dish takes your taste buds for quite the ride. Each aspect of the meal contributes to the overall flavor, which is equal parts bold and intricate.
General Tips
-Book Early:
Restaurants, hotels, shows, and events tend to fill up pretty quickly during the holiday season as more and more people decide to celebrate in Sin City. As long as you make your reservations early, you’ll be good to go!
-Keep Your Mind Open:
Though it’s smart to have a pretty good idea of what you want to do during your trip, keep your eyes peeled for even more holiday fun along the way. Light displays and other holiday celebrations are plentiful throughout the city.
-Dress for the Occasion:
Though Las Vegas is typically thought to have hot weather year round, it can get pretty chilly in the Winter months (especially at night). Make sure to bring sweaters and jackets with you.
Las vegas embraces the holidays with excitement and spirit – and it shows! From the extravagant decor to the plethora of holiday-themed activities and events, this city is the perfect place to be when getting into the holiday spirit. Celebrate the season with loved ones in this desert oasis that never fails to impress.