Las Vegas in December: Your Ticket to Can’t Miss Vegas Attractions and Events
December is typically known as the quietest time of the year in Las Vegas.
As most people are getting ready for the holidays, trimming the tree, and traveling through the woods to Grandma’s house, some people will still hit up Las Vegas for fun instead!
No matter the time of year, there are plenty of can’t miss attractions and events in Las Vegas. What’s the best part about traveling to Las Vegas before Christmas and New Year’s Eve? Cheaper hotel rates and airfare!
Another added bonus is cooler temperatures, making it more comfortable to explore all Las Vegas has to offer.
Whether you need to finish up last-minute shopping for friends and family or are looking for family fun, there is plenty to do in Las Vegas in December.
Shop in Las Vegas in December
One of the best places to find unique gifts while enjoying holiday decorations is The Linq Promenade.
Amongst a giant tree, holiday-themed magic shows, and festive carolers, you will discover boutique-style shopping, dining, and nightlife. If that’s not enough, how about the world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller?
Do you still have some people on your gift list? Head over to the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. The shops are beautifully lined with cobblestone walkways and the Grand Canal.
Some of the world’s premier luxury brands have storefronts here, including Diane von Furstenberg, Burberry, Dooney & Bourke, and White House Black Market.
The Palazzo Atrium will also feature holiday decor and entertainment options. Don’t forget to take a ride on one of their famous gondola, complete with a singing gondolier!
Visit with Santa
For many children, the holidays are not complete without a visit with Santa. While in Las Vegas in December, you can give your children educational opportunities while enjoying some holiday magic.
At the Nevada State Railroad Museum Boulder City, the entire family can enjoy the Pajama Train. This is the perfect way to close out a fun day at Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.
It runs on Friday and Saturday at 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.Join Santa and his elves in a heated train car as you enjoy the nighttime city lights, a cup of hot chocolate, and a cookie.
Is a holiday train ride not enough time with Santa? Check out Springs Preserve, an award-winning family destination dedicated to exploring green-living, desert life, and Las Vegas’ lively history.
While here, enjoy the Holiday Express train ride- direct to Santa’s Village. Your children (and the children at heart) can visit with Santa, listen to holiday stories, and enjoy the snowfall.
Have Some Winter Fun
Don’t think you can have traditional winter fun in Las Vegas in December? From outdoor ice skating to holiday shows, Las Vegas has you covered!
The Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers an outdoor skating rink, complete with snacks, snow showers, and outdoor holiday films. Even if you aren’t able to skate, there is still fun at the Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan.
Enjoy the fire pits, a menu of seasonal fare, s’ mores, and hot chocolate while overlooking the beautiful Las Vegas Strip. You’ll feel like you are at a ski lodge without the hassle of traveling to one!
No matter what time of the year you visit Las Vegas, the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are a can’t miss attraction. In December, it should be at the top of your list! Savor the beauty of enormous polar bears made from carnations and other wondrous winter scenes.
All of the plant and flower creations are produced by a dedicated team of horticulturists.
Before leaving the Bellagio, check out the trademark Fountains of Bellagio. During December, the show is updated to include holiday music.
Las Vegas in December also highlights several holiday-themed stage shows. Check out the holiday classic ballet The Nutcracker. The Nevada Ballet will hold afternoon and evening performances December 13th – 24th.
Rock Out at Upcoming Concerts
Feeling a little holiday overload with all of the shopping and decorations? Las Vegas in December offers some fantastic shows by best selling musical artists.
It doesn’t matter what genre of music you like, chances are there is a show for you!
Some of the artists holding concerts in Las Vegas in December include:
- Wayne Newton (December 2nd – 30th)
- Reba McEntire (December 4th – 14th)
- Snoop Dogg (December 10th)
- Ariana Grande (December 15th)
- Boyz II Men (December 27th – 29th)
- Journey (December 27th – 31st)
- Lady Gaga (December 28th – 31st)
- Maroon 5 (December 30th – 31st)
Attend Sporting Events
There is no shortage of sporting events in Las Vegas in December. Fans of NCAA Basketball can enjoy the CBS Sports Classic featuring games against UNC and UCLA and Kentucky vs. Ohio State on December 21st.
Is football more your speed? How about college football’s Las Vegas Bowl, which takes place the same day.
In professional sports, Las Vegas’ first professional team, the NHL’s Golden Knights will have several home games in December.
See the world’s top hockey players as they the New York Rangers (December 8th), Chicago Blackhawks (December 10th), Colorado Avalanche (December 23rd), Arizona Coyotes (December 28th), and more!
Relive the days of the old West at the National Finals Rodeo from December 5th – 14th. Here, you can watch some of the best rodeo performers showcase their roping, steer wrestling, and bronco riding skills.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve
Ready to ring in 2020 and say goodbye to 2019 in the way only Las Vegas can? The Strip will be shut down to set up for one massive party for you and hundreds of thousands of others!
As the clock stricks midnight, a fireworks show will light up the night sky while the parties continue in all of Las Vegas’ hottest nightclubs.
Looking for the best vantage point? The New Year’s Eve Tower Part at The STRAT will give a breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree view of the Las Vegas Strip. This party will have an open bar, food, party favors, and a midnight champagne toast.
Travel to Las Vegas This December!
Regardless of age or what you are looking for, Las Vegas in December has something for everyone.
Travel safe and, most importantly, have fun!
