December 2022
Sorry that this newsletter is coming out late…life sometimes gets in the way.
I’ll be home for the holidays in Las Vegas. There are so many shows that I have to see, so many friends I want to spend time with, and so many chores I want to do around the house.
‘He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.’
I hope that everyone had a good Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving really is one of my favorite holidays. It is about friends, family, and food. That’s it. The holiday makes us just take a moment, stop, and simply be thankful for all that we have.
It is so interesting how time and age changes our perspective on the holidays. The holidays always bring both joys and challenges to all of us. I am looking forward to a simple homebound holiday without the pressure of doing anything… I want to see friends. I want to spend time with family. I’m going to give money to the Salvation Army, and donate clothes to Goodwill. I’ll drive around and look at Christmas lights, and I’ll go see holiday attractions, shows, and events. I’ll do a little decorating, and I’ll buy a couple of things for a couple of people. Mostly, I’m going to appreciate being home.
It’s different when you have little ones around…their excitement fuels your excitement. Seeing their wonder fills your heart with joy; so there is a far greater enthusiasm to get out and find just the right presents for them. Then the little ones grow up, and we find joy in so many other ways.
I do love the holidays, but I now love them for all the other reasons…people seem to appreciate each other more during this time of year; family and friends take the time to get together. My daughter just asked me what I want to Christmas…all I could come up with was: “let’s spend time together, play golf, get a mani/pedi; go out to dinner...” She was unsatisfied with my answer.
December is a unique time for the city. The first couple of weeks in the month stay fairly busy, the week just before Christmas is the slowest time of the year, and the week, after Christmas and before New Year’s, the town usually gets neurotic. During that week prior to Christmas, a lot of the shows take a holiday break and close down. Visitors need to be sure to check the show listings to see the status of their favorite production.
Hanukkah 2022 begins December 18 at sunset and ends December 26 at nightfall.
Kwanzaa 2022 begins December 26 and ends January 1, 2023
Christmas is December 25, 2022.
There are several events that make the first part of the month very busy: The Great Santa Run, the NFR, and at the end of the month of course, New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve is going to be huge.
There are many Christmas attractions, celebrations, and entertainment; and most of these things are geared to the locals and not to the tourists. People forget that the Strip is not the city. The Strip is a fantasyland where people work, but do not live. The city is truly everything else, but the Strip. Yes, Virginia, we do have neighborhoods, schools, grocery stores, and parks just like every other city in the country.
There are a few conventions during the first couple of weeks of the month, but then there are no more conventions booked for the rest of the year…at all. In a city of conventions, it is amazing to have an empty convention calendar for two weeks. Things get going again in January when the International Consumer Electronics Show comes in, and the Adult Entertainment Expo is at the same time.
One of my favorite winter attractions is Opportunity Village’s, "The Magical Forest," running through December. The Enchanted Carousel, the Forest Express Trains, live music, sweet treats, lavishly decorated trees, whimsical displays, millions of lights and visits with Santa Claus provide people of all ages with a winter wonderland each night during the holiday season. You will also have the opportunity to take in Boris the Elf’s 3-D Experience, ride the rails on the Forest Express train, take photos with Santa in his workshop or go for a spin on Cheyenne’s Enchanted Carousel. Other can’t-miss attractions at the Magical Forest include a gingerbread house display, Rod’s Mini-Golf course and Rudolph’s Raceway. Opportunity Village is a not-for-profit organization that serves people with intellectual disabilities by providing them with vocational training, employment and social recreation services that make their lives more productive and interesting. Once thought by society to be unemployable and unimportant in the community, people with severe disabilities are engaged, active residents who contribute to our society. Through Opportunity Village’s programs and services, hundreds of people with disabilities are learning vocational skills and being placed in jobs throughout the community.
Another good holiday attraction is “Glittering Lights,” at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, running into January. “The Glittering Lights” is a holiday drive-thru spectacular featuring millions of twinkling and animated displays, and part of the proceeds go to charities. And you can also receive a discount on the admission if you bring a bag of stuff for Goodwill. Being at the Speedway is a bit of a drive to get to it, but it will be worth it.
"Tournament of Kings: 'Twas the Knight" will make its return to Excalibur Hotel & Casino, continuing the popular holiday tradition at The Strip's longest-running dinner show. The Tournament of Kings Arena will transform into a magical winter wonderland, guaranteeing all a 'holly jolly' time during this limited engagement.
Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall is making the season merry and bright with the return of Mystic Falls Park®'s winter wonderland display, featuring festive décor, more than 26,000 points of light and the return of its holiday laser light show. The holiday attraction can be enjoyed starting at sundown on Wednesday, November 24 through Saturday, January 1, 2022.
In celebration of the holiday season, Snow Carnival opened as the newest holiday attraction in the Las Vegas Valley and sold out much of its opening weekend. Snow Carnival began welcoming guests of all ages through January 8, 2023. Visitors to the winter wonderland can experience a gentle flurry of snowflakes in designated areas, multiple snow play spaces and unlimited rides. For an adrenaline rush, guests can take unlimited runs down the snowy inclines of the "Mini Matterhorn," a multi-lane snow tubing slide for those over 42 inches tall. The Santa Train transports adults and children through a snowy forest of lighted trees and a roaring polar bear. Holiday goers can challenge each other to snowball throwing contests by aiming at a festive target wall. Finally, no trip to the snow will be complete without building the perfect real snowman or making a snow angel! Snow Carnival creates a storybook experience of exploration, wonder, and fun for the entire family with immersive play, unlimited rides and many Instagram-worthy moments. Pet the "reindeer" in the Reindeer Barn and check out the polar bears and penguins that add to the lifelike winter wildlife atmosphere. Commemorate your visit with a professional photo with the loveable Snow Carnival Yeti who greets everyone and poses for photos.
Palms Casino Resort offers multiple live music, special events and concert theater performances. Located adjacent to the Las Vegas Strip where valet and self-parking are always free you will find a wide range of headline talent, and performances you can only see at Palms.
Pearl Concert Theater
Santa Jam
Florida Georgia Line's Tyler Hubbard and The Voice season 4 Winner and 2018 ACM New Female Vocalist of the Year nominee Danielle Bradbery—along with up-and-coming singers/songwriters Matt Stell, Jackson Dean, Ashley Cooke and Shane Profitt—will perform at Santa Jam 2022. Join us for some classic holiday songs from these amazing country music artists.
December 4, 2022 at 7 PM
Collective Soul
It's probably (well, definitely) somewhat of an understatement to say Collective Soul frontman and chief songwriter Ed Roland is unwaveringly driven in his desire to double down on doing more of what he does best — making music, sweet music, both in the studio and onstage. See Collective Soul live onstage at Pearl Theater!
Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 8 PM
On Friday, Dec. 9 at 5:15 p.m., prior to its live viewing party of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR), the Plaza Hotel & Casino will welcome Montana cowboy and Yellowstone star, Forrie J. Smith, for a special appearance. Smith has become a well-established cowboy TV star, playing bunkhouse veteran Lloyd Wheeler on the hit television series Yellowstone, airing on the Paramount Network. Now, Smith will host a talk show/television series titled Ramblin’ with Forrie J., debuting New Year’s Day on Wild Rides TV.
The Downtown Christmas Expo takes over the Plaza’s third floor convention space from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 1-10. The carefully curated shopping event features a diverse array of apparel and accessory designers, artisans, jewelers, and Western couture. With dozens of Western industry vendors, including its top makers and trend setters, the expo showcases exclusive looks and products. The Downtown Christmas Expo is a marquee part of the memorable Western experience that takes place in Las Vegas every December. Admission to the expo is free and parking is validated with a purchase.
In celebration of the 2022 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR), MGM Resorts will host numerous rodeo and country music-themed events at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, The Mirage and Excalibur December 1 – 10. Throughout the 10 days, bars, lounges and sportsbooks, will transform into country lovers' dream destinations featuring live music from well-known artists and bands, cowboy autograph sessions and viewing parties, among many other activities.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
CODY JINKS
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is welcoming back country music superstar Cody Jinks to The Chelsea for an exclusive two-night engagement December 2 – 3. Performances are scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. nightly.
ADAM SANDLER
World-renowned actor, musician and comedic legend Adam Sandler is extending his sold-out tour with an exclusive, two-night engagement at The Chelsea December 9 – 10. Performances are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. nightly.
MGM Grand, New York-New York and Excalibur
GOLD BUCKLE ZONE BLOCK PARTY
MGM Grand, New York-New York and Excalibur will become country central as the three resorts turn into the Gold Buckle Zone Block Party. Scheduled events include viewing parties, live music and autograph sessions.
WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO LIVE VIEWING
MGM Grand, New York-New York and Excalibur will host complimentary Wrangler National Finals Rodeo viewing parties at various locations beginning at 5:45 p.m. nightly.
RODNEY CARRINGTON
Comedian, actor, singer and writer Rodney Carrington returns to the David Copperfield Theater at MGM Grand for three evenings full of guaranteed laughs. Carrington will perform December 8 – 10 with shows scheduled to begin at 9 p.m.
COWBOY AUTOGRAPH SESSIONS
Fans will have the chance to meet and get autographs from the Tie-Down Roping contestants in the MGM Grand Main Lobby Saturday, Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Additionally, the Bareback Riding contestants will sign autographs and meet with rodeo fans at Beerhaus at The Park Thursday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mandalay Bay
COWBOYVILLE
Two-step over to Cowboyville at Rhythm & Riffs Lounge and Eyecandy Sound Lounge & Bar at Mandalay Bay.
Rhythm & Riffs Lounge
One-Hour Instructor-Led Line Dancing Class
Dates & Times: December 3, 7 & 10 at 8:30 p.m.
Bull Horn Ring Toss
Dates & Times: December 2 – 3, 9 – 10 at 8 p.m.
ROPER COWBOY MARKETPLACE
The expansive Roper Cowboy Marketplace will be located in Bayside E & F at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center December 1 – 10 and will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. This shopping extravaganza features more than 200 Western vendors, providing guests the opportunity to purchase everything from clothing, home goods and more. There also will be entertainment featured on the Roper Stage and meet-and-greet autograph opportunities with rodeo contestants daily. Admission is complimentary and open to the public.
The Mirage
WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO LIVE VIEWING
The Mirage will host complimentary viewing parties at the BetMGM Sportsbook starting at 5:45 p.m. nightly. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.
2022 RODEO VEGAS
Each night, country's brightest stars will headline "Rodeo Vegas" at the BetMGM Sportsbook where the party never ends. Live music begins at 8 p.m. nightly and admission is complimentary. The lineup is:
Thursday, Dec. 1 & Sunday, Dec. 4: Casey Donahew
Friday, Dec. 2: Lainey Wilson
Saturday, Dec. 3: Josh Abbott Band
Monday, Dec. 5: Danielle Bradbery
Tuesday, Dec. 6: Glen Templeton
Wednesday, Dec. 7: Randy Rogers Band
Thursday, Dec. 8: Travis Denning
Friday, Dec. 9: Elvie Shane
Saturday, Dec. 10: Ian Munsick
RON WHITE
As part of the Aces of Comedy series, Ron White, best known as the cigar-smoking, scotch-drinking funnyman from the "Blue Collar Comedy" tour, will perform his hilarious stand-up comedy inside The Mirage Theatre December 2 – 3 and December 9 – 10. Performances start at 10 p.m. nightly.
STEVE TREVIÑO
"America's Favorite Husband" Steve Treviño is scheduled to perform at The Mirage Theatre Thursday, Dec. 1 and Thursday, Dec. 8. Known for his tongue-in-cheek humor and relatable stories, Treviño will charm guests with his comedy during NFR week. Shows is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.
T-Mobile Arena
GEORGE STRAIT
George Strait is returning to Las Vegas December 2 – 3 for his "Strait to Vegas" series, gracing the stage at his T-Mobile Arena home away from home for the 35th and 36th times. Joining the King of Country is special guest Caitlyn Smith. Performances are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. nightly.
Jingle all the way to Downtown Container Park this holiday season. Downtown Las Vegas' open-air shopping center & entertainment venue will host a special ho-ho-holiday breakfast hosted by Father Christmas himself, Santa Claus! Christmas comes early to Container Park as Santa Claus rides into town to deck the park for the holidays! On Saturday, December 10th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., families and holiday devotees are invited to celebrate Christmas early with 'Breakfast with Santa'!
Never fear, Container Park has no shortage of holiday cheer! Downtown Container Park's 'Movies on The Lawn' returns with a clatter featuring family-friendly holiday favorites including the following:
December 12th – 'The Santa Clause'
December 11th – 'Elf'
December 18th – 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas'
Downtown Summerlin® announces a special appearance by the world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales who will Grand Marshall the Holiday Parade at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. The iconic team features eight horses pulling the famous red, white, and gold beer wagon carrying two traditionally clad drivers and a Dalmatian coach dog. Starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, guests are welcome to head to a designated public viewing area in the Northwest parking lot at Downtown Summerlin to get and up-close look, snap a photo with the iconic Clydesdales and enjoy an ice-cold Budweiser for purchase until 5:30 p.m.
Santa’s Experience returns to Tivoli Village with an expanded footprint this year! Take a stroll through a winter wonderland at Santa’s Experience – complete with a visit with a live Santa at the end of the tour for kids of all ages, naughty or nice! A fun and festive interactive adventure with plenty of photo-ops along the way, Santa’s Experience includes everything from a visit to the North Pole through the reindeer stables, an oversized gingerbread house, Santa’s workshop, a candy factory, nutcrackers, Whoville and the Grinch, and so much more!
The holidays are approaching, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is getting in the spirit with its annual community-created seasonal exhibition, A December to Remember. Supported in part by Nevada Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities, the six-week event will feature a unique collection of exhibits, workshops, and performances by notable community groups and civic organizations showcasing holiday customs from various ethnic and religious cultures including Hawaiian, Japanese, Scottish, Italian, Mexican, Filipino, Buddhist, Muslim, and Wiccan.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is thrilled to welcome hometown music icons The Killers back to The Chelsea for an exclusive, encore New Year’s Eve performance on Saturday, Dec. 31. On the heels of a massive, worldwide tour and an unforgettable sold-out performance at the resort earlier this year, the GRAMMY® nominated group will ring in 2023 with their greatest hits from their seven best-selling studio albums. Deemed one of the most successful acts to ever emerge from Las Vegas, The Killers have rocked the world selling more than 25 million albums globally, receiving multiple GRAMMY® nominations, AMA nominations, MTV VMA’s and NME Awards and performing in more than 50 countries and six continents.
The Killers’ performance at The Chelsea is one of several exclusive New Year’s Eve festivities hosted at the resort. Additional programming and events include:
Champagne Toast at The Chandelier
Saturday, Dec. 31 | 9:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Known as ‘The Most Instagrammable Spot in Las Vegas,’ The Chandelier 1.5 will be reserved for an exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration, inviting guests to toast to 2023. Imbibe on an unlimited bar package featuring signature craft cocktails and champagne courtesy of Veuve Clicquot set amongst two million dazzling crystals while enjoying a live DJ and photo-booth activations. Exclusive fireworks viewing at the Ice Rink for guests of the event will be open from 11:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. General admission starts at $200.
The Ice Rink Fireworks Viewing Party
Saturday, Dec. 31 | 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Welcome 2023 with a bang and feast your eyes on an exclusive fireworks display complete with breathtaking views of the Strip at The Cosmopolitan’s very own rooftop Ice Rink. Toast to a three-hour open bar experience among snow flurries and the glittering lights of Las Vegas atop the resort, complete with VIP and reserved seating, a champagne toast at midnight and complimentary ice skate rental.
DJ Pauly D at Marquee Nightclub
Saturday, Dec. 31 | Doors: 8 p.m.
This New Year’s Eve, say goodbye to 2022 at Marquee Nightclub with a live set by DJ Pauly D. Partygoers can toast to the New Year as Pauly D leads the countdown to 2023 and continues the celebration all night long.
Multi-Platinum recording artist and global icon Gwen Stefani will celebrate 2023 with two exclusive New Year's Eve weekend performances at The Venetian Theatre inside The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas. Performances on Friday, Dec. 30, and Sat. Dec. 31, are scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m.
Las Vegas Ballpark® announces the return of Enchant this holiday season! The whimsical and heartfelt Christmas Light Maze and Village that boasts a walk-through 100-foot tree, with an all-NEW family-friendly Mischievous Elf theme. Guests can join in on the brand-new maze experience that features best pals, Eddie the Elf and Sparky the Reindeer, who help find missing presents for Santa to deliver— before it’s too late. The full Enchant experience at Las Vegas Ballpark includes gliding down the ice-skating trail with an improved streamlined process for checking in; sampling gourmet holiday treats from around the world with many new vendors including the Build-A-Bear Workshop to make a special bear to join you on your adventures; the Hallmark® Channel Holiday House; Polar Roller, where you can create your own snow cone from start to finish; Merry Lodge for a signature Enchant lightbulb beverage; and for guests 21 and over, a stop at the new Tipsy Tree Tavern. Finish your experience with a walk through the Christmas Market that takes over the entire 360-degree concourse and includes an improved, special Santa experience.
Spiritual sounds and heavenly hashbrowns...this is "churrrch on the Strip!" as emcee Patti Pennington describes it. House of Blues Las Vegas inside Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino proudly announces the extension of the world-famous House of Blues Gospel Brunch after sold-out shows during 2022.
Remaining 2022 Performances (all performances at 10 a.m.):
Dec. 4 & 11
2023 Performances (all performances at 10 a.m.):
Jan. 8 & 22 – Just added!
Feb. 19 & 26 – Just added!
March 12 & 26 – Just added!
The all-you-can-eat Gospel Brunch is a non-denominational, immersive celebration of gospel music to help wipe away your troubles and leave you inspired. With a buffet menu that is ever-evolving, the Gospel Brunch menu includes southern specialties and morning feast favorites omelet and ham carving stations, red rose-roasted potatoes, biscuits & gravy, BBQ chicken, creamy mac & cheese, cider-braised Brussels sprouts, andouille sausage & chicken jambalaya, chicken & waffles, and an array of salads, seasonal fruits, desserts and breakfast pastries.
The holidays are quickly approaching, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is getting in the spirit with its annual community-created exhibition, A December to Remember. Museum visitors can experience holiday traditions and celebrations from around the world at the heart of Las Vegas' cultural corridor. Supported in part by Nevada Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities, A December to Remember features a unique collection of cultural exhibits, workshops, and performances by notable community groups and civic organizations. During the six-week event, visitors can learn about holiday customs from various ethnic and religious cultures including Hawaiian, Japanese, Scottish, Italian, Mexican, Filipino, Buddhist, Muslim, and Wiccan.
The Giving Machine, the popular “vending machine” that works in reverse by giving users an opportunity to purchase a variety of much-needed items for local and global charities via the swipe of a credit or debit card, or Apple and Google Pay, returns to Downtown Summerlin® where it will remain through Jan. 1, 2023.
Local nonprofit beneficiaries this year include Catholic Charities, HELP of Southern Nevada, Project 150, Three Square and Volunteers in Medicine. Global beneficiaries include Church World Services and Lifting Hands International.
This holiday season the UNLV Performing Arts Center will present "A Very Merry Christmas" starring the dynamic ensemble Mariachi Herencia de México at the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 7:30 p.m. Filled with music and cheer for the whole family, the Latin GRAMMY®-nominated group will perform Mexican and American favorites, including their hit "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," "Los Peces en el Rio," "Sleigh Ride," "Mi Burrito Sabanero," and many more.
The Mirage Hotel & Casino announced Wayne Brady and Chico Bean will join the Aces of Comedy Series 2023 lineup at The Mirage Theatre while Jim Jefferies announced additional performances. All three comedians' shows are scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.
WAYNE BRADY
January 14, 2023
June 10, 2023
Multi-Emmy Award-winning and GRAMMY Award-nominated Wayne Brady has an impressive resume on stage and screen. Brady has starred in and executive produced such hits as "Whose Line Is It Anyway?," "Let's Make A Deal," "Game of Talents" and "Comedy IQ," a series he also co-created. Fueled by his passion for music, Brady is an accomplished singer and performer, winning the second season of "The Masked Singer" as well as starring in Broadway shows including "Chicago," "Kinky Boots" and "Hamilton."
CHICO BEAN
April 8, 2023
Chico Bean stars on MTV's "Wild 'N Out" as a top veteran and one of the show's most notable faces. Known for his uncanny ability to instantly memorize the words to an old song or create an on-the-spot quirky jingle, Chico credits perfecting his craft to appearances on "The Freestyle Funny Comedy Show," an improv stand-up comedy show in North Carolina, and MTV 2's comedy series "Guy Court."
JIM JEFFERIES
June 2 – 3, 2023
Jim Jefferies returns to The Mirage Theatre with his "Give 'em What They Want Tour." Jefferies is one of the most popular and respected comedians of his generation, entertaining audiences across the globe with his provocative, belief-challenging and thought-provoking comedy. Jefferies hosts his own podcast series, "I Don't Know About That with Jim Jefferies," alongside co-hosts Forrest Shaw and Kelly Blackheart.
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton and proud hotel partner of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) 2022, will be abuzz with viewing events, live performances, dining specials and more, Dec. 1 – 10.
24 Oxford will play host to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Calcutta (fantasy rodeo draft) nightly, beginning at 4:30 p.m., followed by a live viewing of NFR. The after party kicks off at 9:30 p.m. each night with live musical performances from exciting, up-and-coming country stars. The entertainment lineup includes Easton Corbin (Dec. 1), Dillon Carmichael (Dec. 2), Glen Templeton (Dec. 3), Dan Smalley (Dec. 4), Will Jones (Dec. 5), Ben Gallaher (Dec. 6), Wyatt McCubbin (Dec. 7), Joe Nichols (Dec. 9), Heath Sanders (Dec. 10) and more.
The nonstop entertainment continues at The Theater with multi-platinum country artist Gary Allan with special guest Drake Milligan on Dec. 2 and 3, GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter, Ryan Bingham with The Texas Gentlemen plus special guest Corb Lund on Dec. 4, genre-bending artist Koe Wetzel and special guests Bones Owens & Ben Burgess will perform Dec. 6 and legendary southern rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd will bring the heat on Dec. 9 and 10.
Igoshows.com is, of course, the place to read the reviews of all of the shows that are in town so that you can be better informed as to what you should expect from a certain production. The reviews are updated as needed to give you the knowledge you need to spend your entertainment dollars better.
