It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is here! What better place to spend the holidays than Las Vegas a place well-known to do everything big! This year is no exception as once again this one-of-a-kind destination steps up the celebration in a whole new way. From the spectacular holiday-themed shows to the festive gardens at the Bellagio, to even ice skating, now is the time to visit the Entertainment Capital of the World. It truly is a gift anyone would like to find under their Christmas tree.
Here are some of the best places to get into the holiday spirit while visiting Las Vegas, and these are kid-approved!
Bellagio Gardens
The Bellagio Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel should always be at the top of every visitor’s list when visiting Las Vegas, however, perhaps more than the rest of the year, the Gardens look incredibly festive during the month of December and into the Chinese New Year. Following Thanksgiving weekend, The Bellagio transforms its garden wonderland into a one-of-a-kind holiday showcase. Open 24 hours a day, this inside oasis is free to the public and located near the front lobby.
Mystic Falls Park at Sam’s Town
From Thanksgiving Eve through the first week of January, visit the winter wonderland of Mystic Falls Park, at Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall. Discover a Christmas-inspired atmosphere with garlands, lights, snow-covered trees, poinsettias, ice sculptures, and more, not to mention Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Free hourly holiday shows daily 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Magical Forest at Opportunity Village
Opportunity Village is an incredible program that raises money to support services and programs for people with disabilities. One of their biggest fundraising events every year is the Magical Forest, which pops up every December.
Opportunity Village’s Magical Forest is an amusement park that appeals to everyone in the family, regardless of their age.
Hundreds of trees are beautifully lit, creating a winter wonderland in the desert! Visitors can roam around, taking in the sights, enjoying holiday music, drinking hot chocolate and riding the miniature trains, the Enchanted Carousel, playing mini golf, and having fun on the Avalanche Slide! The giant Christmas tree completes the holiday aesthetic.
Santa is a frequent visitor to the Magical Forest, so kids can do a meet and greet and get their photo with jolly Old St. Nick.
All the proceeds go toward helping Opportunity Village support its mission. So, you can feel good about spending your holiday dollars at the Magical Forest because you know you’re helping others.
Open: Nov. 24-26, Nov. 30-Dec. 3, Dec. 7-10, Dec. 14-31, 2023 (Closed: Christmas Day)
Ethel M Chocolates Cactus Gardens
This 3-acre cactus garden features more than 600,000 lights delighting chocolate lovers from all over the world. Free to guests, on weekends, Santa Claus himself visits as well as performances by local choirs. This is truly a one-of-a-kind event that’s only in Las Vegas. Of course, you will also be close to some of the best chocolate ever made. Period.
- November 3rd – December 31st
- Holiday Lights: Nightly, 5pm to 10pm
- Santa will be in the garden nightly through Dec. 23
Holiday Magic at The LINQ Promenade
The Linq Promenade is the heart of the Las Vegas strip. This huge pedestrian mall has the best shops, restaurants, and experiences Vegas has to offer. There are even rides for kids of all ages, including the largest Ferris wheel in the world – The High Roller. From the top of the High Roller, you can see the entire city.
Like most places in Vegas, the Linq Promenade completely transforms for the holiday season until January 2, 2024. There are decorations everywhere, holiday-themed lights, live performances, a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, Christmas crafts, and the High Roller is lit up in holiday colors.
Every day during December, you and your family can wander the promenade and enjoy all the holiday wonder. You and your kids will be happy to run around the promenade taking in all the sights and sounds.
Plan Your Las Vegas Christmas Getaway
When traveling to Las Vegas during the holiday season, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Las Vegas is busy every day of the year, but very popular during Christmas and New Year’s when the city pulls out all the stops to make this season unlike anything anyone has seen before. Casinos attempt to outdo the others with decorations, oversized Christmas trees, entertainment, special menus and drinks, and more. Keep in mind the following:
- Las Vegas never closes, and this is true on holidays. Everything will be open!
- Make reservations for meals (restaurants are at their busiest during this time), and shows. Keep in mind that buffet prices are usually twice the normal price. If budget is an issue, choose a venue that is off the strip or consider eating lunch out instead of the more pricey dinner.
- Expect the Strip to be crowded, especially since Christmas falls on a Saturday this year. Keep a watch on your personal belongings and leave valuables at home.
- Dress warmly. Believe it or not, Las Vegas can get quite cold during the winter months.
Remember, it’s the most magical time of the year, and Las Vegas won’t disappoint. Happy Holidays!
