Las Vegas Announces Holiday Schedule and Happenings
Las Vegas is not only for casinos and concerts - it is also synonymous with Christmas, and the holidays this year promise to be glittery and bright on the Vegas Strip. There are all sorts of sights and sounds for holiday-goers, including the Cosmopolitan Ice Rink, the Las Vegas Ballpark with its ice sculptures and holiday shopping, the lights on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and so much more. The Las Vegas Strip, famed for its non-stop energy and neon-lit glamour, embraces the holiday season with unparalleled extravagance. While many of its iconic casinos, attractions, and shops remain open year-round - including Christmas Day - and the city also transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling displays, unique experiences, and festive cheer. Here's a guide to the most spectacular ways to celebrate the holidays, Vegas-style. Cosmopolitan Ice Rink Address: 3708 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Perched atop the Cosmopolitan's Boulevard Tower, the Ice Rink transforms 4,200 sq. feet into a skating paradise. Visitors can glide under the stars while enjoying light snowfalls, screenings of holiday films, and breathtaking views of the Strip. Open from 4 to 11 pm on weekdays and 12 pm to 11 pm on weekends, the rink is accessible until next year, January 12. Entry around the rink is free for those who prefer to soak in the festive atmosphere without lacing up their skates. Fontainebleau Ice Rink Address: 2777 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Making its debut this 2024, the Fontainebleau Ice Rink offers a double dose of skating fun with two rinks totaling 8,000 square feet. This new addition combines public skating with private event spaces, holiday movie screenings, and cozy firepit rentals. While the experience is twice the size of the Cosmopolitan's rink, it comes at a higher cost. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this chic winter escape. Enchant Christmas Address: Las Vegas Ballpark, 1650 S. Pavilion Center Drive For an immersive holiday adventure, head to Enchant Christmas at the Las Vegas Ballpark. This festive pop-up boasts what's referred to as 'the world's largest Christmas maze,' spanning 80,000 square feet of awe-inspiring light sculptures. Caroling, ice skating, holiday shopping, and live entertainment round out the magical experience. Special days - the 4th of December, the 10th, and the 11th - offer free admission for children. Glittering Lights Address: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 7000 Las Vegas Blvd. N. A cherished tradition for 24 years, Glittering Lights is a 2.5-mile spectacle featuring over 5 million holiday lights. Families and friends can drive through the amazing light show and enjoy the dazzling displays from the comfort of their vehicles, creating a magical memory against the backdrop of the Speedway. Magical Forest (Opportunity Village) Address: 6300 W. Oakey Blvd. Celebrating its 32nd year, the Magical Forest at Opportunity Village offers family-friendly fun with rides, a festive lights walking path, mini golf, and the Forest Express train. Visitors can also visit Santa's cabin for a memorable holiday photo. Proceeds benefit Opportunity Village's programs, which support over 3,000 individuals with disabilities. Also, children 3 and under get in for free. Holiday Cactus Garden Lights Address: Ethel M Chocolates, 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson For a desert twist on holiday decorations, Ethel M Chocolates transforms its Botanical Cactus Garden into a glowing wonderland adorned with over a million lights. Visitors can explore the pathways filled with succulents, meet Santa Claus (available through December 23), and indulge in the factory's sweet treats. Proceeds from the $3 admission fee support the Three Square Food Bank and HELP of Southern Nevada. Winter Wonderland at Aria Address: 3730 Las Vegas Blvd. S. Aria's Winter Wonderland display enchants visitors with a Sugar Palace (it's 15 feet tall!) crafted from edible ingredients. This sweet spectacle is a must-see for holiday lovers and remains on display until January 5. Celebrate the holidays, Vegas-style The Las Vegas Strip proves there's no better place to celebrate the holiday season. From skating rinks and sparkling light displays to enchanting mazes and edible creations, these attractions offer a mix of entertainment and festive spirit for locals and visitors alike. So whether you're seeking a family outing or a romantic evening under the lights, Las Vegas guarantees a holiday experience you'll never forget. Make sure to check the hours and ticket availability in advance to secure your spot at these magical events!