It has been a year of change for Las Vegas’s queer bar scene. Six gay bars have closed since the summer of 2023, and even though newer and glitzier nightspots have debuted to fill some of those gaps, another community staple shuttered last week. The Garden, which held drag brunch, dance parties, and community events since 2020, closed on Saturday, September 21.

Originally created by local gay nightlife fixture Eduardo Cordova, the Garden featured an outdoor patio with fire pits for nighttime lounging. Inside, a wraparound bar with a white stone countertop served as the centerpiece. Crystal chandeliers hung over green velvet booths and bar stools. On weekend mornings, drag performers roved the room while visitors dined on tiramisu French toast, smoked salmon Benedicts, and bottomless mimosas. In the evenings, the bar poured sweet cocktails in pastel colors while go-go dancers created a high-energy atmosphere. Last year, Cordova stepped away from the bar and opened Queen Bar Las Vegas.

The Garden’s owner, Edith Castillo, posted on the bar’s Instagram page on September 11, saying: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of the Garden Las Vegas after four amazing years.” The bar hosted a farewell party on Saturday, September 21.

The Garden joins other shuttered queer bars including Freezone in the historic Fruit Loop neighborhood, the Las Vegas Eagle, the Spotlight Lounge, Coop’s Cabaret Jimmy’s at Madison’s, and Charlie’s Las Vegas.

Update: September 30, 3:01 p.m.: This post has been updated to include the name of the Garden’s current owner.