Christmas in Las Vegas is unlike any other. If it’s your first time spending the holidays there, then you’ve got loads to look forward to! But before you go on a whirlwind of festive shows, gigantic decorations and tons of holiday treats, here are six things to know about Las Vegas at this time of the year. Get ready for an awesome Christmas!
1. Dress for the season
In Las Vegas, December is a lot cooler than other months. You can expect cool, sunny days and chilly nights. Not too cold to have frostbite though, just enough to wear that new scarf and feel the holiday spirit. For men, pack warm trousers and coats; for women, pack full-sleeve blouses, cardigans and scarves. Still bring your swimwear because there are heated pools for those who want to go swimming.
2. Many Christmas attractions are free
There are numerous ways to celebrate Christmas in Las Vegas, and many of them are free. Some of the most popular holiday attractions include:
Dancing Fountains at the Bellagio
This goes first on the list. When you’re tired of playing the slots, take a breath of fresh air and watch the infamous fountains dance to music such as “Carol of the Bells,” “Holy Night,” “Santa Baby,” “Sleigh Ride,” and other Christmas songs.
Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Dominated by a 42 foot Shasta tree, the gardens get a makeover with thousands of lights on all kinds of plants. Also take note of the holiday rocking horse, flying reindeer, penguin statues and life-size polar bears.
Ethel M. Chocolate Factory Cactus Garden Light Display
Open to the public from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly, this attraction proves that even the desert can exude the spirit of Christmas.
Winter in Venice
It seldom snows in Las Vegas, and if it does, the snow doesn’t settle. At the Venetian, you get to enjoy an ice skating rink and icicle-laden decorations.
Holiday Display at the Crystal’s City center
No need to worry if you don’t have the budget to shop at Luxury shops such as Christian Dior, Prada, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton. You can enjoy the special holiday displays with your family for free.
3. Christmas shows abound
Las Vegas has a lot of wonderful shows during the holidays. This Christmas, you can look forward to the Mannheim Streamroller Christmas Vegas, “The Nutcracker,” The Jersey Boys, Celine Dion, and breathtaking Cirque du Soleil performances. Aside from these, there are still plenty of other shows that will be taking place throughout December.
4. Everything is open
Everything is open on Christmas day – from your favorite shops, bars, restaurants, casinos, attractions and buffets. You don’t have to worry about running out of time because everything’s up and awake even during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
5. Make dinner reservations ahead
Las Vegas is overflowing with delicious holiday food and drinks. But with so many people celebrating Christmas in Vegas, be sure to make dinner reservations. If you plan to eat in a restaurant, book ahead if you don’t want to wait in a very long line. Also consider that some buffets have special prices during Christmas day that may cost double the regular rate.
6. Downtown is a place to visit
The Strip is jampacked with people. If you want a change of scenery, head Downtown where you can enjoy the Fremont Street experience, complete with fireworks on the display canopy. You can also try your hand at poker at the Plaza Hotel and Casino. They have a new poker room with automated poker tables just in time for the holidays.
Enjoy the holidays!
About the author:
Melissa Page loves Christmas as much as she loves writing. She is also an avid traveler and when not writing, she’s busy planning out her next trip. Her upcoming Christmas destination would be the Plaza Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Follow her on Twitter @Melissapage90.