Most people's eyes are on New York City on New Year's Eve; the famous ball dropping in Times Square is watched by a large international audience. But it can be hard to appreciate the luxury of a winter holiday's vacation when you're bundled up against the cold, in the crush of NYC.
Las Vegas is one of the most popular travel destinations in the US. While it's often too hot for most people's comfort in the summer, Las Vegas is quite comfortable in the winter. It's a great place to ring in the New Year, as well; the party atmosphere in Las Vegas is famously revelrous every day as it is, and when a holiday brings disparate people together to celebrate, the parties are just incredible. Here is a recommended selection of upscale New Year's Eve events in Las Vegas, Nevada.
- The Bellagio is a luxury resort and casino, bringing class to the hubbub of the Las Vegas Strip. The BANK Nightclub at Bellagio is considered by some to be the most exclusive nightclub in Las Vegas; the BANK is celebrating New Year's Eve with a live performance by Jay Sean. The famous British hip hop artist is hosting the countdown to midnight, after a full concert of his hits. Once the clock strikes 12, the crowd and Jay Sean will have a champagne toast to the New Year. Now, this is an exclusive club, and the tickets are $150 per person. Tickets entitle each bearer to VIP access all night, and table reservation packages are available.
- Mandalay Bay is another upscale resort casino in Las Vegas. Rather than having a special New Year's Eve party for an elite group, Mandalay Bay is hosting an entire block party. The Mandalay Block Party at Mandalay Bay should be a great night: The Block Party Pass provides entry into the Mandalay Bay Beach area, where FOX television will be shooting its "New Year's Eve Live" show, with host/television personality Nancy O'Dell. The night's drinks and food will be supplied by several restaurateurs in Mandalay Bay and otherwise. Tickets are $50, or $75 if purchased on New Year's Eve.
- ARIA Resort & Casino is a AAA 5-Diamond Award resort, and on Conde Nast's 2010 "Hot" list. The HAZE Nightclub at Aria is new, plush, and hip, with the most advanced music technology around. Taking advantage of this superior audio system, Grammy award-winning hip hop artist Nelly is hosting New Year's Eve celebrations at HAZE. Tickets are $150 per person, and likely to sell out – this is one of the best events of the night. The VIP access is good all night long, and there are table reservation packages as well.
- Luxor Hotel & Casino is one of the most iconic Las Vegas Strip sights; the beam of light emitted from the top of the pyramid-designed hotel and casino is often the first thing tourists see when arriving at night by car. In fact, the Luxor Sky Beam is the strongest single beam of light in the world. LAX Nightclub at Luxor is the site of its New Year's Eve festivities. The energy in the room will be fantastic, as Diddy (formerly known as Puff Daddy) will host the blowout New Year's Eve bash. This is one that most of Las Vegas will be talking about the next day.
Las Vegas has many other New Year's Eve parties planned, of course – it's the Entertainment Capital of the World, and the night is already cause for celebration. Anyone planning a luxury New Year's Eve trip to Las Vegas, Nevada will have a riotously good time.
Jennifer W. Miner - Jennifer has years of travel writing experience, spoken at several national conferences, and more. See Jendeavor.com for more details.
