How To Celebrate Christmas In Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the ultimate entertainment destination. The city that never sleeps takes it’s holidays very seriously, especially Christmas! The magnificent hotels on The Strip seem to be in a month long battle against each other to see who can be the Grandest Of Them All during the month of December. What I love is that because the hotels want the foot traffic (so that you spend money in the casinos and restaurants) many Vegas Christmas Attractions are completely free!

Whether you are with your crazy friends, your wholesome family, or all by yourself, there is something on this list just for you!

(In Alphabetical Order By Location)

The Shops At Crystals (Aria Resort & Casino)

There are many places to shop in Vegas, but the #1 reason to come here in December is the GIANT CHRISTMAS TREE! It is one of the largest I have seen, and definitely draws a consistent crowd. Great place for a photo opp!

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden (Bellagio)

The beauty and attention to detail here is almost unmatched. Every season, a team of horticulturalists and designers create an original exhibit complete with thousands of flowers, plants, and trees. This year’s theme is “Majestic Holiday Magic.”

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Fremont Street Experience (Downtown Las Vegas)

Fremont Street is sometimes referred to as the “REAL” Las Vegas, and you are sure to see some interesting characters here any time of the year. Each December, there are decorations, a Tree Lighting ceremony, photos with Santa Claus, and a Grand Menorah Lighting.

Glittering Lights (Las Vegas Speedway)

This is the most unique light display I have ever seen! Located in the Las Vegas Speedway, visitors slowly drive through the 2.5 mile Christmas experience viewing Christmas themed displays with millions of glittering lights.

“Holiday Magic” (Linq Hotel & Casino)

A one stop show for food, shopping, and entertainment, the LINQ dazzles during the Holiday Season. Everyday in December, visitors can enjoy free live performances, synchronized lights on the High Roller, and dazzling artificial snow.

Palazzo Waterfall Atrium & Gardens

If you are looking for the best photo opp, just head to the Palazzo. I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful displays, and they might just be my favorite on The Strip!

Paris Hotel & Casino

Paris has shimmers of Christmas Cheer here and there, but my favorite part is the lobby. The combination of the majestic tree and beautiful chandeliers, while modest compared to other options, is a worthy photo opp if you happen to be in the area.

The Christmas Festivities don’t end there! Below is a list of other noteworthy Holiday attractions to check out in Las Vegas!

Santa’s Wonderland (Bass Pro Shop): Santa has become rather expensive as of late. But at Bass Pro Shop, you can still visit him and receive a 4×6 photo for free! Time slots are limited, so be sure you plan accordingly.
Fountains of Bellagio (Bellagio Hotel & Casino): Known worldwide, the Fountains of Bellagio is a free synchronized performance, where water elegantly dances to the music. during the holidays, the music is Christmas-themed with tunes like “Santa Baby” and “O Holy Night.”
HollyDome (Circus Circus Hotel): One of the world’s largest indoor theme parks in the world really gets into the Christmas Spirit in December. Aside from the normal thrill rides the HollyDome, aka the AdventureDome, offers pictures with Santa, ice skating, and live performances.
The Ice Rink (Cosmopolitan Hotel): It’s far too cold to swim in the Las Vegas Winter, which is why The Cosmopolitan transforms one of it’s pools in a skating rink! Overlooking the Vegas Strip, this ice skating rink also features light snowfall, movie nights, and photos with Santa and The Grinch.
Christmas Town (Cowabunga Bay Water Park): This water park located in Henderson transforms into a Winter Wonderland fit for the whole family. Here you can enjoy paintball, a train ride, sledding, and a lot more!
Holiday Cactus Garden (Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory): Las Vegas is in the middle of a vast desert, so its only right that there be an outdoor holiday display full of cacti. You can find Santa here, take a selfie in a giant snow globe, as well as both wine and chocolate tastings.
Tournament of Kings (Excalibur Hotel & Casino): The Tournament of Kings is a Dinner+Show of epic proportions. This years’ theme is “‘Twas The Knight” featuring jousting, dancing, and a yummy 3-course meal.
Winter Village (Green Valley Ranch): This is a truly festive place for both couples and families. With two locations, Green Valley Ranch and Red Rock, you can enjoy ice skating and special winter treats in the holiday lounge.
Santa In The Shipwreck (Mandalay Bay Shark Reef Aquarium): The Shark Reef Aquarium is already impressive on its’ own, but the Mandalay Bay takes it up a notch in December. Here, you get to take a picture with Santa Claus and you get to watch him take a dive in the shark tank! Make sure you check out the website for specific show times.
Magical Forest (Opportunity Village): Opportunity Village is a wonderful organization serving people with physical and intellectual disabilities. You can support this organization while enjoy festive rides, dazzling light displays, and a whole lot more.
Holiday At The Park (Park MGM): The Park MGM, formerly Monte Carlo, is one of The Strip’s latest hotels and delivers a fun family-oriented winter experience. Enjoy gorgeous decorations, ice skating, and a massive Christmas tree.