Three Las Vegas Convention Venues Top The Wall Street Journal’s List of Best Convention Centers in the U.S.
The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) was number one among The Wall Street Journal’s list of the 30 best convention centers in the U.S., with rankings based on the quality of the facility and the vibrancy of the surrounding city.
The Venetian Convention and Expo Center and Mandalay Bay Convention Center ranked third and seventh respectively, solidifying Las Vegas’ position as the premier tradeshow destination.
Tourism leaders commemorated the accolade today during the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor’s Authority (LVCVA) Board of Directors meeting.
According to The Wall Street Journal, scores were primarily weighted on the size and quality of convention facilities, including total square footage, amount of exhibition space, the number of meeting rooms, and the proximity to a major airport. Walkability of the convention destination in addition to weather, dining, entertainment, and hotel offerings were also considered.
“We are honored that three of Las Vegas’ premier convention centers were recognized by The Wall Street Journal,”
Steve Hill, president and CEO of the LVCVA,
which owns and operates the LVCC.
“Thanks to our resorts offering unparalleled experiences, amenities, and customer service, Las Vegas has earned its reputation as the leading meetings and convention destination. As we continue to invest in the destination and improve the Convention Center experience with our $600 million renovation, we are grateful to our building customers who continue to choose Las Vegas.”
Las Vegas has been named the number one trade show destination in North America for 26 consecutive years by Trade Show News Network (TSNN), the world’s leading resource for the trade show and event industry. Its combined 15 million square feet of meeting and event space is more than any destination in North America. The destination welcomed 4.9 million convention attendees in 2022. The Wall Street Journal story highlighted the growing demand for dual-purpose trips that combine business and pleasure, with more business travelers tacking on leisure trips before or after meetings.
The 4.6 million square foot LVCC is a key component of Southern Nevada’s convention and meeting segment, hosting about one-sixth of the region’s convention attendees. The $1 billion West Hall debuted in 2021 and the renovation of the LVCC’s legacy campus kicked off earlier this year. The LVCC hosted 56 conventions in 2022 with a combined attendance of more than 840,000, accounting for $2.2 billion in direct and induced economic impact, according to data published by the LVCVA’s Research Center. So far this year, the facility has hosted 35 tradeshows with an estimated attendance of 900,000.
The Wall Street Journal accolade comes as Las Vegas prepares to usher in an unprecedented line up of tradeshows and marquee sporting events from October through February that will garner worldwide attention. The roster includes the SEMA Show, an automobile show that anticipates 160,000 attendees, the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, Pac-12 football, National Finals Rodeo, the NBA’s first in-season tournament, Las Vegas Bowl, New Year’s Eve, CES, World of Concrete, and Super Bowl LVIII.
To learn more about the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, visit LVCVA.com and www.vegasmeansbusiness.com.
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Is Vegas Pouring Somm-Approved Wine from a Can? – We Tasted with Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines
Sommelier Businesswoman Kristin Olszewski brings Michelin quality to Canned Wines with Nomadica Wines
Nomadica offers sparkling, rose, white, red and orange options — both canned and bag in a box.
Nomadica Wines are sourced from vineyards with responsible farming practices and winemakers who engage in low intervention wine making.
Wine-lovers can be 100% confident you’re drinking serious sommelier-approved wine.
Today’s conversation with Sommelier / Businesswoman Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines has been edited for length and clarity. For the full, un-edited conversation, visit our YouTube channel here.
Joe Winger: We’re here today with Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines.
What’s the most important message you want to share today with our audience?
Kristin Olszewski:
I think the biggest message that I want to get across is that everyone should be drinking more wine. That’s my mission in life to just bring consumers back to the wine category.
Joe Winger:
Outstanding. And how how are you trying to get that done?
Kristin Olszewski:
I’ll give a little context on my own history and how I came here.
My undergrad degree is in sustainable agriculture and I ended up dropping out of Harvard Medical School to become a sommelier – typical journey.
I just really fell in love with wine. I worked in restaurants to pay for school and wine was always the thing that captivated my interest.
I feel like it’s the intersection of history, agriculture and gastronomy. And then also there’s something so fun and communal and – you’re getting a little tipsy. It’s everything.
But I spent a decade-plus in Michelin restaurants all over the country, everywhere from three Michelin stars, Saison in San Francisco, Husk in Nashville, Osteria Mozza here in LA.
When Nancy Silverton was on a Netflix show called Chef’s Table, I started noticing a different customer coming into the restaurant. Usually as a sommelier, you’re talking to a very specific demographic of people. I would say 45 plus male white wine collector. That’s my demo. And when Nancy was on Chef’s Table, young people started coming into the restaurants, a lot of women, and I noticed they didn’t want to drink wine.
They would drink tequila, beer, cocktails, like anything but wine.
That always felt like such a missed opportunity because wine, it’s the most ancient beverage. Our people have drank wine for millennia. It’s also in an age where we care about what’s natural, what’s minimally processed, what’s better for you.
Great wine is literally just grapes, yeast, water, and time, so I started digging into why aren’t you drinking wine? And I found out a few things.
One, people felt like wine wasn’t a good value. If you weren’t going to spend a lot of money on wine, you couldn’t get a great wine, which is untrue.
The other one is people feel like they needed a PhD or some level of education or knowledge in order to access wine, which, again, is not true.
I want to be people’s guide, hold their hand and walk them into the world of wine. So I started Nomadica to do that on a larger level.
Joe Winger:
That’s beautiful.
You mentioned two things. We’re going to go into both. Your background in Michelin restaurants. I’ve heard heavenly amazing stories. I’ve heard horror stories.
Can you share an experience and what you learned from?
Kristin Olszewski:
Everyone always asks me if I watch The Bear or not. And I’m like, no, I can’t.
Some positive stories, Michelin restaurants have changed a lot from when I started working in them. I think work has changed a lot for the positive. I remember one of my first serious jobs in a scary restaurant. You have your hair pulled back because you don’t want it to get in the food.
I had one small piece of hair hanging down above my face and the chef takes a match from the stove, lights a piece of my hair and says don’t ever have a hair hanging down in your face again.
Some of the wonderful stories are having the opportunity, especially at Mozza, you taste each bottle you open there.
When I was at Mozza, it was a $5 million dollar all-Italian cellar with 90 pages of the best Barolo, Brunello, Etna Rosso’s, just things that like collector’s dream about tasting.
And I feel so lucky to have tasted things like Conterno Monfortino, which is the type of wine that you want to smell for three hours before you drink it.
When you have a wine like that, it makes you realize why collectors obsessively chase bottles, there’s something so romantic and intangible, and having a wine like that, you realize you’ll never have A wine that tastes the same at any moment in time ever again.
It’s just such a lucky experience.
Joe Winger:
I’m curious about how that experience inspired you to open Nomadica.
Kristin Olszewski:
My entry point into wine was always through farming. I majored in sustainable agriculture.
I was an avid farmer. I ran our community garden in college and was focused on permaculture. I lived in India and farmed for a while there.
And I always say great wine is made by great farmers, great wines made in the vineyard, not the cellar.
So when I was looking at starting Nomadica, that sustainability ethos, it was always my starting point, but I was really shocked when I found out how bad glass bottles are for the environment.
30% of glass is recycled in the US. The rest just goes into a landfill. It’s highly energy intensive to make, to ship, because it’s so heavy.
The fact is, most wine does not need to be in a glass bottle.
Yes, that Barolo I mentioned absolutely needs to be in a glass bottle. That needs to be aged for years before it even comes into its own.
But for a $20 – 30 bottle of wine that you’re going to pop open and drink it on a weeknight or on a not special weekend does not need to be in glass.
So that’s how we started.
Cans at 70 % reduction in carbon footprint. Our newly launched bag and box wine is almost a 90% reduction in carbon footprint.
Joe Winger:
I sampled your sparkling white, your white, your red and your rose, they were dangerously drinkable.
Can we talk about where the fruit is sourced from?
Kristin Olszewski:
Absolutely.
The name Nomadica is really a fun double entendre because you can take it wherever you want to go. Of course, cans and boxes can be found in places that bottles can’t.
We source our fruit from all over.
We’re truly a nomadic winery.
Our head winemaker spent time at some of the best wineries in California, like Eric Kent Cellars, which makes award winning Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and also Kosta Brown.
Before that he spent 10 years doing vineyard management in California. So through Corey, we’ve really got a handle on some of the best fruit. A lot of our wine comes from Mendocino. A lot of our grapes come from Mendocino or Lodi. I’m such a Sonoma girly. Our winery is located in Sonoma, and so I always find myself drawn back to that region.
Joe Winger:
Are there any vineyards you’d recommend us touring when we come to Northern California?
Kristin Olszewski:
I think the Sonoma Coast is the best wine region in California. They’ve fought very hard to become designated as their own AVA, which is very important in terms of quality.
The oceanic influence, what we call a diurnal shift, the extreme temperature change between night and day, like Hirsch and Littorai.
I think if anyone ever wants to see proof in the pudding of what great farming can do, you need to go see Littorai.
Ted Lemon was one of the first Americans to ever be a winemaker in Burgundy and he brought all of his practices back, was one of the first people to practice biodynamic agriculture in California and really brought that style of farming onto a larger scale.
When you go visit his vineyards, it’s like teeming with life. You look next door at a conventionally farmed plot, which is just like dead and sad looking. And then you taste the wines and you’re just knocked on your butt because they’re so good.
Joe Winger:
Nomadica Wines has several varieties. White, Sparkling white, Rose, Red, Orange.
Can you walk us through the taste profiles of any of your favorites – what’s the aromas, what are the profiles?
Kristin Olszewski:
Something really cool about our wines is everything’s practicing organic. No pesticides, no synthetic fertilizers, all of our wines are fermented dry. Naturally zero grams of sugar per serving. They have nice fruit notes, but none of the wines are sweet.
Crushable bright flavor.
Across the gamut, our entire portfolio has a brightness and a freshness to it. All of our wines are like slightly aromatic because I love an aromatic variety, but part of the thought that we put behind the brand is that I wanted to take that sommelier curation and put it in the restaurant, on the retail shelf so that when you’re serving Nomadica at your home, at parties and the beach, 99% percent of people will love it.
I’m doing the work on the back end on blending, sourcing, creating these flavor profiles that’s really taking that wine experience, that decade plus of developing my own palette and giving it back to the consumer.
Joe Winger:
Are there any favorite wine and food pairings for you with your wines?
Kristin Olszewski:
I love an aperitif. Our sparkling rosé is definitely my favorite wine in our gamut. In a can you always have the perfect pour because sometimes you don’t want to open up an entire bottle of wine.
When we do that in my house, it usually gets drank. It doesn’t go back in the fridge.
Sometimes you just want a glass of sparkling. And I love that.
I love that with a charcuterie board and cheese. I also love Rose with green salads.
I think one of the best things about living where we live [Los Angeles] is we have the best produce on the planet.
I still run some wine programs in Los Angeles and I’m actually opening up a restaurant in Silver Lake next year, an Italian restaurant. Orange Wine is like the hottest trend.
I was doing the wine list at a restaurant in Hollywood called Gigi’s and I noticed I was selling more orange wine by the glass than all other colors combined, which was just mind blowing to me.
We made what I think is the best orange wine coming out of California.
There’s a lot of talk about natural wine, orange wine. They’re not all created equal. My winemaker and I tasted through my favorite Italian skin contact wines and decided on a really concrete flavor profile source.
My mother in law in Orange County is drinking her orange wine with her friends. So I really feel like I’ve achieved something. That with sushi is a mind blowing pairing.
Then our red. We found Teroldego growing in Northern California, which is a grape that’s indigenous to Northern Italy from the Alto Adige.
It’s really Alpine, like dark fruit, like a Zinfandel, but really refreshing and bright acidity and a little bit more tannin than a Zin [Zinfandel] has.
There’s a perception that we had to overcome about can and boxed wine. People think that it’s low quality.
Whenever I pour our red for somebody, the response is always, “Wow, oh my god, that’s so good.”
No matter your level of wine knowledge, you can see what I’m trying to do when you taste our red wines.
Joe Winger:
What’s next for you and Nomadica?
Kristin Olszewski:
Right now we’re in hardcore expansion mode. We were the first people to do fine wine and can, and I grew really slowly at my own pace.
I wanted to build the brand.
A lot of people just run to retail shelves and they want to be in every grocery store on the planet. I didn’t want that. I wanted to be, at the Four Seasons, at the Ritz Carlton, at music venues.
I wanted to be in places where people don’t typically expect to see wine in cans and boxes.
We are one of the highest velocity items at Whole Foods in our category.
We just launched all of our box wines at Total Wine in California, Texas, Florida, Colorado, and New York and got some really big plans for next year.
So keep your eyes peeled. People are about to see me everywhere.
That’s my goal.
Joe Winger:
Having a canned wine at some of these nicer hotels is a challenge.
What lesson did you learn by accomplishing that rather large challenge?
Kristin Olszewski:
That’s the best thing about how we’re positioned. Not only am I a sommelier, my VP of sales is a sommelier. My winemaker has an incredible reputation. Every person on my team comes from the wine industry and we have the best product.
When we’re sitting down and tasting with these buyers, these people that are in our industry. They recognize it. I always say taste out of a wine glass. Everything tastes better out of a wine glass. The second that they taste it, these are people who taste wine all the time and they taste a lot of bad wine.
So that has been amazing.
We’ve always had the industry behind us. It’s a huge differentiator for us. So I think it was slow build. Everything takes a lot more time than you think it will, which is I think the biggest lesson that I’ve taken away from this business over the last seven years.
But you got to build your brand first.
Joe Winger:
You seem like a deep-souled individual. Whether it’s wine or otherwise, is there an overall message that you want to share to inspire the audience?
Kristin Olszewski:
We are in a time where sustainability is more important than it ever has been. You can’t base your entire brand about it, but I think it’s an absolutely necessary component to any consumer product that’s coming out today.
One of my missions in life is to have that conversation about sustainability and have it with other brands because it needs to be convenient.
Otherwise, consumers will not buy it, care or participate or choose a sustainable option. That’s my big thing.
Joe Winger:
What are the best ways to follow your journey and to learn more about you?
Kristin Olszewski:
You can buy Nomadica online and our new rosé yuzu spritz, which is delicious at ExploreNomadica.com. And then our socials are at Nomadica on Instagram.
And if you want to follow me. I’m at Kristin__O.
AFM, Vegas Bound Gets Early Sign-Ups! From A24, LionsGate, Voltage, StudioCanal, Neon, Pathe
American Film Market (AFM)Vegas Bound Gets Early Sign-Ups! From A24, LionsGate, Voltage, StudioCanal, Neon, Pathe
The American Film Market ® (AFM®) announces the current lineup of participating Exhibitors for its upcoming 45th edition, scheduled for November 5-10, 2024.
This year marks a significant milestone as the American Film Market relocates to the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas for the first time.
With American Film Market is still four months away, Exhibitor registrations are surging, with early sign-ups far surpassing previous years. Currently, 145 sales, production, and distribution companies, along with international trade organizations, film commissions, and national umbrella stands from 25 countries have secured spaces in The Palms’ Fantasy Tower, AFM’s designated hub.
The ongoing influx of Exhibitor commitments establishes serious momentum for the Las Vegas show and indicates that AFM 2024 will exceed recent participation levels.
Exhibitors to date include major international companies and organizations such as v, Telepool GmbH, The Match Factory, Trust Nordisk, Unifrance, The Veterans, Vision Films, Inc., Voltage Pictures, WestEnd Films, WME Independent, and XYZ Films, among many others.
Buyer and Attendee participation is also running strong since registration opened in mid-June, with participants from 45 countries already registered. Organizers estimate total participation to come from more than 80 countries.
Early commitments from Exhibitors and Buyers underscores the event’s global significance and returning confidence in the business. The convenience of hosting all participants and Market activities in a single location, including AFM Screenings at The Palms’ Brenden Theatres and The AFM Sessions, also is welcomed by Exhibitors and Buyers alike.
AFM 2024 will be a landmark event for global content, offering unparalleled opportunities for discovering the newest independent film and TV productions and projects and an energetic and efficient environment for business transactions, networking, knowledge sharing, and educational opportunities. Further details about AFM Exhibitors and the comprehensive event schedule, conferences and speakers will be announced in the coming weeks and months.
For the Current List of AFM Exhibitors, visit: americanfilmmarket.com/exhibitor-list-2024
For More Information on AFM and to Register, visit: americanfilmmarket.com.
About the American Film Market® (AFM®)
The AFM is where the global film and television business comes to life every November. The only independently produced international sales market, hundreds of finance, production, sales and distribution companies and thousands of professionals from every segment of the industry, convene at AFM for six days of discovery, development, deal making, networking, marketplace discussions and world-class conferences. The AFM is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and serves as the annual fundraiser for the association.
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
IFTA is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. The organization represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides significant entertainment industry services to independent companies around the world.
About Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort is a trailblazer as the first Las Vegas resort fully owned and operated by a Native American tribe, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. With 766 hotel rooms and suites across two towers, Palms offers a dynamic mix of bars and restaurants including the acclaimed steakhouse Scotch 80 Prime, the popular A.Y.C.E Buffet, and celebrity chef-driven eateries including Mabel’s BBQ by Chef Michael Symon and sky-high dining at Vetri Cucina from Chef Marc Vetri. Home to live entertainment venues, and unique lifestyle experiences within a redesigned 95,000-square-foot casino, amenities include free valet and self-parking, The Pearl (a 2,500-seat concert theater), Ghostbar Rooftop Lounge, The Spa & Salon, the Brenden Theatre 14-screen cinema, over 190,000 square feet of meeting space, and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums. Sammy’s Island at Palms Pool, named after rock legend Sammy Hagar, offers island fun and laid-back vibes. Palms features innovative suites like the Hardwood Suite for basketball fans, the Kingpin Suite for bowling enthusiasts, and many more theme suites. The Sky Villa suites, with masterful artwork and private pools & terraces, with breathtaking views of the Strip provide unmatched luxury for unforgettable experiences. Located just west of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road, Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more details, visit palms.com or the Palms Press Room.
Nén Danang Awarded 2024 MICHELIN Green Star for Sustainability
Nén Danang Awarded 2024 MICHELIN Green Star for Sustainability
At the prestigious MICHELIN Awards Ceremony held at the InterContinental Hotel Saigon, a notable achievement was celebrated within the realm of sustainable gastronomy: Nén Danang, a pioneer in Vietnam’s fine dining scene, was honored with the 2024 MICHELIN Green Star for Excellence in Sustainability. As the first Vietnamese restaurant in the world to be recognized, as well as the first in Vietnam, this accolade underscores Nén’s commitment to innovative and environmentally conscious practices that set a benchmark for the industry.
The Michelin Green Star, a prestigious annual award, celebrates restaurants leading the industry in sustainability. Highlighting establishments that uphold rigorous ethical and environmental standards, this accolade recognizes those who collaborate with sustainable producers and suppliers to minimize waste and reduce or eliminate plastics and other non-recyclable materials. To date, only 540 restaurants worldwide have earned this honor, offering dining experiences that not only exemplify culinary excellence but also demonstrate exceptional eco-friendly practices. These restaurants serve as beacons of inspiration for both enthusiastic foodies and the broader hospitality industry.
Nén Danang, under the visionary leadership of Chef Summer Le and her partner Leon Le, has been instrumental in redefining what it means to dine sustainably. With a culinary philosophy deeply rooted in the principles of ethical and environmental stewardship, Nén sources 99% of its ingredients locally, including from its own farms, thereby supporting Vietnam’s local economies and artisans while minimizing environmental impact. This approach not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also fosters a strong connection with the community and the natural world.
The restaurant’s Sto:ry Menus exemplify this ethos, merging rich Vietnamese traditions with inventive dining experiences. Each dish is a celebration of nature and a narrative of culture, crafted to offer a multi-sensory delight that evokes emotions ranging from joy to nostalgia. Notably, their Sto:ry Menu #5 is a zero-waste venture that transforms everyday ingredients, such as eggshells into noodles, showcasing an innovative approach to sustainability.
The core of Nén’s culinary identity lies in its commitment to ‘Conscious Vietnamese cuisine.’ The restaurant’s ethos—origin, aesthetic, intention, balance, emotion, and presence—guides its culinary choices. Each aspect, from the sourcing of ingredients to the final presentation, is thoughtfully curated to enhance the dining experience, making every meal an event of conscious consumption and enjoyment.
Nén’s unique approach to cuisine also reflects in its name, derived from a humble but flavorful ingredient found in Central Vietnam’s kitchens. This reflects the restaurant’s philosophy: finding potential in the overlooked and elevating it to something extraordinary. It’s about transforming simplicity into splendor, turning each meal into an exploration of the hidden depths of Vietnamese culinary traditions.
Located next to Nén Farm in Da Nang, the restaurant serves as the flagship for a brand that is deeply invested in research and sustainability. Despite challenges like a temporary closure during the Covid-19 pandemic, Nén Danang reopened in 2023 with renewed vigor and a continued focus on its sustainable mission. This commitment culminated in receiving Vietnam’s first and only MICHELIN Green Star in 2024, a testament to its leadership in promoting a sustainable and ethically aware dining culture.
Through Nén Danang, diners are invited not just to eat, but to experience stories through flavors, where each dish serves as a dialogue between the chef and the earth, a narrative that continues to inspire both food enthusiasts and culinary peers around the world.
About the Author
Joe Wehinger (nicknamed Joe Winger) has written for over 20 years about the business of lifestyle and entertainment. Joe is an entertainment producer, media entrepreneur, public speaker, and C-level consultant who owns businesses in entertainment, lifestyle, tourism and publishing. He is an award-winning filmmaker, published author, member of the Directors Guild of America, International Food Travel Wine Authors Association, WSET Level 2 Wine student, WSET Level 2 Cocktail student, member of the LA Wine Writers. Email to: Joe@FlavRReport.comYou Might also like
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Post Malone, Janelle Monáe, Paul Anka: Fontainebleau Las Vegas ushers in 2024 with its inaugural New Year’s Eve festivities.
Fontainebleau Las Vegas ushers in 2024 with its inaugural New Year’s Eve festivities.
Fontainebleau Las Vegas ushered in 2024 in a spectacular way with its inaugural New Year’s Eve festivities.
From the Las Vegas Strip to New York City’s Times Square – the newly debuted luxury resort and casino kicked off the New Year with bi-costal live performances by Post Malone and Paul Anka while unveiling the members-only club Poodle Room with a surprise performance by Janelle Monáe and an unforgettable rooftop fireworks show.
“From the Strip to Times Square and beyond,
Fontainebleau is leading the world into a new year and the dawn of a new era for our iconic brand,”
Jeffrey Soffer
Fontainebleau Development Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
“We are so proud to bring people together in a collective celebration of style, luxury, endless possibilities, and 70 years of Fontainebleau.”
Opening talent Jesse Jo Stark warmed up the crowd with her ethereal stage presence and haunting vocals before GRAMMY® Award-nominated and eight-time diamond-certified global superstar Post Malone made history as Fontainebleau Las Vegas’ first New Year’s Eve headliner. Taking the stage for his second consecutive sold-out night at BleauLive Theater, Post performed some of his greatest hits including “Congratulations,” “Wow” and “I Like You (A Happier Song).”
Post took a moment to acknowledge the crowd’s energy and thank them for coming to the show.
“Thank you all so much. It’s New Year’s Eve ladies and gentlemen and I just want to say I love you so much. There’s so much love in this building tonight.”
Post welcomed a super-fan to the stage, who strummed an acoustic version of “Stay” while he sang along as the crowd joined in. The 10-time Billboard Music Award-winner continued, inviting his dad alongside him to help lead fans inside BleauLive Theater in a countdown to the New Year, toasting to love, happiness and success in 2024.
For those who couldn’t attend Post Malone’s Fontainebleau Las Vegas debut, a glimpse of his BleauLive Theater performance aired on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024″ nationally, giving fans across the country the chance to ring in the New Year with Fontainebleau.
Simultaneously, in New York City, hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Times Square donning bowtie-shaped glasses as legendary crooner and Fontainebleau Las Vegas grand opening headliner Paul Anka serenaded the crowd with a new rendition of his signature hit “My Way” and John Lennon’s “Imagine,” a New Year’s Eve tradition. Following the iconic ball-drop, the ball itself was re-lit with Fontainebleau’s iconic bowtie motif and rose back to up where it will sit atop One Times Square for the remainder of the year – a nod to the resort’s 70-year history to be celebrated throughout 2024.
Back in Las Vegas, Fontainebleau Las Vegas christened the resort’s new, member’s only club – Poodle Room – with a surprise performance by GRAMMY® Award-nominated Janelle Monáe. A modern representation of Fontainebleau’s history and heritage, Poodle Room is a sanctuary for members to escape the norm and unlock Fontainebleau luxury like never before. Serving as the crown jewel of the resort, the panoramic penthouse that is Poodle Room offered an unparalleled view of the city’s legendary New Year’s fireworks in all their glory.
The festivities did not stop there – with live entertainment sprinkled throughout the resort’s signature bars and restaurants, including Mother Wolf, Don’s Prime, Komodo, and Papi Steak. Guests imbibed and dined to the music of Hermanos Gutiérrez, DJ Karma, Jennifer Keith, and more.
Keep up with Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook. For more information, please visit https://www.fontainebleaulasvegas.com/.
Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a 67-story, vertically integrated luxury resort. Rooted in the 70-year history of the iconic Fontainebleau brand, Fontainebleau Las Vegas brings a legacy of timeless elegance and unparalleled service to the Strip. The resort’s thoughtful design allows guests to move effortlessly among 3,644 luxury hotel rooms and suites, 550,000 square feet of customizable meeting and convention space, more than 150,000 square feet of gaming space, a collection of world-class restaurants and shops, exquisite pools, vibrant nightlife, and vitality-enhancing spa and wellness offerings. Located at 2777 S. Las Vegas Blvd., adjacent to the acclaimed Las Vegas Convention Center expansion, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is created by Fontainebleau Development in partnership with Koch Real Estate Investments.Post Views: 700 -
PirateFestLV 2024 March 23 – 24: Family Fun in Vegas at Craig Ranch Park to Benefit Paradise Ranch Foundation
PirateFestLV Announced for March 23 – 24 at Craig Ranch Park to Benefit Paradise Ranch Foundation
Pirates of the Caribbean Stars: Lee Arenberg, Kevin McNally, and Martin Klebba!
PirateFestLV 2024 anchors at March 23rd‐24th at scenic Craig Ranch Park. PirateFestLV is the largest Pirate and Fantasy Renaissance Festival in the West.
This family fun event includes premium Las Vegas live entertainment, exotic foods, unusual games of skill and intrigue, and three separate bars to serve well-known signature cocktails.
Proceeds from PirateFestLV benefit the Paradise Ranch Foundation a 501C(3).
PirateFestLV 2024 Tickets
Regular pricing for adults $20.00 each, children (ages 5 ‐ 11) Children 4 and under are free. Military, First Responders, and Teachers use the discount code “THANKYOU” for $5.00 off your total order (must show ID at the gate).
The amazing festival performances include Gladius the Show with beautiful, powerful Clydesdale horses and their aerobatic gladiators sworn to protect the Pirate Fest realms. The battle between light and darkness colliding at the Gladius Arena is an experience for the ages!
Amazing Day of Adventure at PirateFestLV 2024
At the Captain’s challenge the audience must choose a side as the pirate captains do battle with swords, musket fire, and swoon beautiful maidens. The audience will cheer the loudest for their favorite captain and see who will win the prestigious title of Pirate Lord.
As if that is not enough to get their blood going, customers can also watch the stomach-turning talents of Cydeshow Cy the Sword Swallower!
Kids and their families will enjoy following the free Treasure Map throughout the event to complete super fun tasks and activities such as, tie ship’s knots; walk the plank, swab the deck, hoist the sails, get a pirate name, even make an eye patch or a fairy wand! There are tons of photo opportunities for the whole family.
Complete the map, and at the final X receive a Letter of Marque, collect pirate booty and become an “Official Pirate of PirateFestLV.”
One of the biggest hits with the wee ones is the Kid’s Cove stage, see the Pirate Puppet Show, magic acts, and interactive storytelling. Las Vegas Family Puppet Theater Co.’s handmade puppets are works of art in their own right.
After the show, visit the magnificent Mermaid pod. You might even see the elusive and beautiful mermaids sunning on their mystical beach! Spend time with our Captains to learn about pirate history, ships, uniforms, and naval traditions.
At the food court, world-class Whiskey Tasting is returning this year where patrons can sample the finest Whiskeys and Rum while learning the finer points of high‐quality spirits.
New this year, customers can enjoy the upgraded Pirate experience with the VIP package including a private parking lot and exclusive seating area for the daytime Gladius shows.
Saturday night, guests will have access to the celebrity panel with the stars of Pirates of the Caribbean Lee Arenberg, Kevin McNally, and Martin Klebba! VIP ticket holders get priority seating to the celebrity panel.
Tickets available at: https://wl.seetickets.us/
event/Pirate-Fest-2024/579955? afflky=piratefest
For more information, visit www.piratefestlv.com.Paradise Ranch Foundation was founded in 2011 to provide mental health services to families in need.
They provide Horse Assisted Therapy (HAT) and Interactive Behavioral Therapy to all with a focus on children with autism and our veterans with Traumatic Brain injuries and PTSD. It is well known, and research has proven that interactions with animals reduce stress, lower heart rates, and positively affect mental health and emotional states.
When we include a horse in our therapeutic sessions, they become a participating member of the therapy process. The horse can “tune in” to emotional states and recognize when the way you feel should be reinforced or reduced and the horse reacts accordingly. HAT is beneficial for many health disorders from depression, anxiety,
OCD, suicidal thoughts or other behavioral problems. https://paradiseranchlv.com/paradise‐ranchfoundation.
SOURCE: VegasPublicity.com
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Las Vegas Promises a Fast and Fun Weekend of Festivities During the Inaugural Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix
Las Vegas Promises a Fast and Fun Weekend of Festivities During the Inaugural Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix
Las Vegas will celebrate the inaugural FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX taking place from Wednesday, Nov. 15 to Saturday, Nov. 18, with the race occurring at night on the legendary Las Vegas Strip.
Top-tier entertainment, opulent nightlife and exclusive dining experiences have surrounded the anticipated event. Here is a taste of what visitors can look forward to during the exciting weekend in the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.
OFFICIAL FORMULA 1 VIEWING EXPERIENCES
Grandstands, club and hospitality suites offer ticket holders complimentary food, beverage and entertainment from DJs and live acts throughout the race weekend.
- Sports Illustrated’s Club SI will host an immersive, on-track experience with views of the high-speed action on Las Vegas Boulevard. The experience includes celebrity hosts Shaquille O’Neal and David Beckham, DJ sets, panels, passed hors d’oeuvres, food stations, cocktails and more.
- Club Paris features Strip-side views of the race, food stations serving Alexxa’s high-end favorites and a menu of beer, wine and cocktails on Beer Park’s trackside terrace. The experience also features a bespoke lounge at Chéri Rooftop, complete with a DJ, live entertainment and passed bites and desserts.
- The East Harmon Zone by Virgin Hotels Las Vegas features The Red Bull Energy Station as well as the Skybox, boasting views of along the starting grid and into the pit lane, an elevated food menu with Prohibition-era cocktails and access to the star-studded Opening Ceremony on Nov. 15 featuring all 20 F1® Drivers as well as performances by Andra Day, Bishop Briggs, J Balvin, Journey, Keith Urban, Steve Aoki, Thirty Seconds to Mars, and will.i.am.
- Grandstands throughout the circuit offer varying viewpoints and assigned seats to ticketholders, who also enjoy complimentary water, soft drinks and food by Wolfgang Puck Catering. Grandstands are found in the East Harmon Zone by Virgin Hotels, West Harmon Zone by Chrome, T-Mobile Zone at Sphere and The Mirage Zone.
- Located in the Pit Building just above the team garages, the Paddock Club™ includes 360˚views of the start/finish line, all-inclusive food and beverage, concierge services, exclusive experiences and more. A private area within the Pit Building, Wynn Grid Club is a stunning private hospitality experience that includes exclusive access to locations within the Pit Building, decadent cuisine, cocktails from expert mixologists and more.
- The South Koval Zone by Caesars Rewards features views of the Koval Straightaway from Heineken House’s trackside nightlife experience complete with DJs, live entertainment, premium cocktails, interactive food stations and more.
- The T-Mobile Zone at Sphere offers race attendees views of the racing action and electrifying performances from some of today’s most recognizable acts from the T-Mobile stage including Mark Ronson, Kylie Minogue, Nile Rodgers & Chic, A Trak, Major Lazer, J Balvin and more..
FESTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND
Several venues in the destination will celebrate with special events, unique offers and more.
- Bellagio Fountain Club at Bellagio Resort & Casino offers views from the hotel’s lake from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. The experience is complete with live race coverage in Dolby Vision; live performances and driver appearances; open bar service; and culinary delights from several celebrated chefs including José Andrés, Christina Tosi, and Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. Also at the resort, Lío will take over Mayfair Supper Club from Sunday, Nov. 12 to Wednesday, Nov. 22. With the hotel’s fountains in the background, the cabaret dining experience from Ibiza offers live performances, exquisite costumes and a prix-fixe menu of Mediterranean fusion specialties.
- Stadium Swim at Circa Resort & Casino transforms the pool amphitheater space on Saturday, Nov. 18 with racing décor and a display of an RB14 Static Car for fan photo opportunities. The venue will broadcast the race on its 143-foot, high-definition screen with full audio.
- Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas presents AIOKA Race Weekend from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. With views of the Strip, the rooftop event features live DJs, signature cocktails, culinary presentations and more.
- Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub at The Cromwell Las Vegas hosts VISTA Las Vegas, an experience in association with the McLaren Racing Formula 1 team from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. The rooftop club offers fantastic Strip views and a live broadcast on LED screens throughout the venue. Hosted by Mark Wahlberg, the event also features live entertainment, DJ sets and racing commentary from F1 driver David Coulthard.
- The Front Yard at Ellis Island Casino Hotel Brewery presents Turn 4 at Ellis Island from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. The beer garden will have an outdoor platform and live race feed on over 20 televisions (including an 18-foot screen). The event is complete with food, soft drinks and Ellis Island’s brewed-on-site beer.
- Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas offers packages from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18, with seating options at its glass pavilion or famed Strip-side patio. The French restaurant will have monitors displaying F1 coverage and offer a special menu with thematic elements paying homage to the European countries that host F1.
- Topgolf Las Vegas has more than 300 screens across its four levels, where guests can purchase a bay to hit the field while watching the action on television on Saturday, Nov. 18. The driving range-meets-entertainment complex also has a limited amount of tickets available for its Ferrari Champagne Bar on Level 4, which includes unlimited Ferrari Champagne from 9-10 p.m.
FOOD & BEVERAGE EXPERIENCES
Restaurants, bars and lounges are getting festive with special cocktail menus, wine lists and more.
- Culinary Kickoff Grand Prix at offers a night of culinary extravagance at Allegiant Stadium on Thursday, Nov. 16, as the chef lineup features renowned talents like Todd English, Aaron May and Rick Moonen. The dining event features 14 to 16 interactive food stations, paired beverages, live entertainment and legendary guests from the NFL like Emmitt Smith and Charles Woodson.
- Proper Bar at ARIA Resort & Casino will feature four cocktails themed to F1 drivers and teams from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Sunday, Nov. 19. Selections include the High Speed and Podium Paloma.
- Caesars Entertainment presents several exclusive dining events with its culinary superstars. Gordon Ramsay will curate menus and make appearances at dinners at both Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay at Harrah’s Las Vegas on Thursday, Nov. 16 and Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace on Friday, Nov. 17. Nobu Matsuhisa will lead sushi-making demonstrations at both Nobu at Caesars Palace on Friday, Nov. 17 and Nobu at Paris Las Vegas on Saturday, Nov. 18. Two special brunches are planned, as well: GIADA at The Cromwell with Giada De Laurentiis on Sunday, Nov. 19 and Vanderpump à Paris at Paris Las Vegas with Lisa Vanderpump.
- The Laundry Room at Commonwealth will feature an automotive-inspired cocktail menu from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Sunday, Nov. 19. Visitors can enjoy libations including the Need for Speed and Checkered Past at the downtown speakeasy.
- MGM Resorts International presents several exclusive dining events throughout the weekend. Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten partners with Yamazaki Japanese whisky for a pairing dinner at Jean Georges Steakhouse at ARIA Resort & Casino on Friday, Nov. 17 before doing the same with Hundred Acre wines at PRIME Steakhouse at Bellagio Resort & Casino from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. Also at ARIA Resort & Casino, Marco Carbone will curate a menu at a dinner paired with LOUIS XIII Cognac and Rémy Martin cocktails at Carbone. Also, at Bellagio, Le Cirque will feature a cognac experience with fifth-generation producer Bénédicte Hardy from Friday, Nov. 17 to Saturday, Nov. 18 and a dinner curated by James Kent on Friday, Nov. 17. Masaharu Morimoto will also curate a menu for an omakase dinner at Morimoto at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino.
- Minus5° ICEBAR presents a Grand Prix-themed ice display and offers its GRAND PRIX ICE-P experience at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. The experience includes entry to the ice bar, cocktails, photos, souvenir items and entry to the sister location at The LINQ Promenade.
- The Still at The Mirage Hotel & Casino and Tailgate Social Sports Bar & Grill at Palace Station Hotel & Casino will feature three F1 driver-inspired cocktails from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18, including the Verstappen Martini, Hamilton Highball and Ricciardo Refresher.
- Piero’s Italian Cuisine will feature six sommelier selects of specialty wines honoring course landmarks from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18. Just off the Strip, the restaurant also will offer four cocktails themed to the participating countries, including Canada, France, Italy and the U.S.
- The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower will feature racing-themed cocktails from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 18, including the Flat Out and Pole Position. Participating bars include 108 Drinks, PT’s Wings & Sports, REMIX Lounge and View Lounge. The resort’s Top of the World restaurant will offer a “Circuit Tour” prix fixe menu, featuring four courses pulling inspiration from countries on the 2023 F1 calendar.
- La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas will feature a sommelier-select wine flight highlighting European regions along the 2023 race calendar.
- Wynn Las Vegas offers a LOUIS XIII Cognac Pop-Up Boutique now through Tuesday, Nov. 28. The shop features an extensive selection (including The Iconic Collection, THE DROP Collection and RARE CASK 42.1), the brand’s bespoke accessories, and private appointments with a LOUIS XIII Ambassador.
MOTORSPORTS ACTIVITIES
Attractions throughout the destination offer automobile enthusiasts unique experiences, including the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a real racecar.
- ARIA Resort & Casino hosts an Alfa Romeo Experience in its lobby, featuring the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale, the new Giulia and Stelvio, an Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake Show Car, and a selection of racing gear available for purchase. On Wednesday, Nov. 15, the Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake will unveil a unique vehicle livery to be used during the race, with special appearances by Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.
- Bellagio Resort & Casino presents a Ferrari Pop-Up Boutique from Monday, Nov. 13 to Monday, Nov. 20. The space will embody the retail concept under the creative direction of Rocco Iannone.
- Dream Racing Las Vegas offers opportunities to experience driving on the world-famous Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where countless NASCAR drivers have proven their skills. Cars offered include models from Maserati, Ferrari, Corvette and more.
- Four Seasons Las Vegas will feature the work of British artist and sculptor Paul Oz, known for traveling the globe to produce Formula 1-focused art. The exhibit runs through race weekend, featuring paintings and sculptures from his Formula 1 collection. Visitors can also experience Oz live painting in the hotel’s lobby throughout the weekend.
- Las Vegas Off Road Experience offers a thrilling experience behind the wheel and off the track. Offerings include professional race trucks, dune buggies, Polaris RZRs and more.
- Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix offers visitors a family-friendly approach to the racetrack. The go-karting attraction also features rides, slides, games and an arcade.
- Palms Casino Resort will have four Ferraris on display in its lobby and valet from Sunday, Nov. 5 to Sunday, Nov. 19. Visitors can get up-close for a first-hand look at Ferrari models in pristine condition, including a red 333SP, a red LaFerrari FXX-K, a red Enzo FXX, and a black 599XX.
- SunBuggy Fun Rentals Las Vegas offers off-roading rentals (including ATVs and dune buggies) and experiences that take visitors to locations throughout the Mojave Desert.
- SPEEDVEGAS is a 100-acre motorsports complex where visitors can drive exotic supercars around a Formula 1-inspired racetrack with 12 sweeping turns, 15-degree bank turns, 60 feet of elevation change and a half-mile straightaway. Cars offered include models from Porsche, Lamborghini, McLaren and more.
- The F1 Las Vegas Hub presented by American Express is open now through Wednesday, Nov. 22 in the Waterfall Atrium at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. The state-of-the-art retail store features exclusive F1® merchandise and Las Vegas Grand Prix collaborations with some of the hottest brands in fashion, including Malbon Golf and UNDEFEATED. Available items will include eight Las Vegas Grand Prix collaborations for 2023, Formula 1® team gear and much more.
- McLaren Experience Center at Wynn Las Vegas, Powered by O’Gara at Wynn Las Vegas offers an immersive brand experience for McLaren fans, enthusiasts and potential customers. The store features a rotating display of three McLaren supercars, opportunities for visitors to configure their own dream McLaren on the McLaren showroom vehicle configurator, and a racing simulator a professional driver coach.
ELECTRIFYING ENTERTAINMENT
Las Vegas always offers an impressive entertainment lineup including resident headliners, hilarious stand-up comedians and more.
- Pop rock star Rod Stewart is back for more dates of his residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Wednesday, Nov. 15 and from Friday, Nov. 17 to Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Rapper Jack Harlow takes the stage at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on Thursday, Nov. 16.
- DJ Chris Lorenzo plays a set at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center on Friday, Nov. 17.
- Stand-up comic Bill Burr brings the laughs to Dolby Live at Park MGM on Friday, Nov. 17.
- Country artist Keith Urban continues his residency at Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Wednesday, Nov. 15 and from Friday, Nov. 17 to Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Comedians David Spade and Nikki Glaser team up for a show at The Venetian Theatre at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas on Thursday, Nov. 16 and Friday, Nov. 17.
- Disco and funk artist Nile Rodgers and his band Chic play two nights at Voltaire Belle de Nuit at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas on Wednesday, Nov. 15 and Friday, Nov. 17.
WHERE TO KEEP THE PARTY GOING
Some of the world’s top DJs are bringing the noise around the clock to the destination’s luxurious dayclubs and state-of-the-art nightclubs.
- Omnia Nightclub at Caesars Palace presents sets by Steve Aoki (Thursday, Nov. 16), Martin Garrix (Friday, Nov. 17) and Alesso (Saturday, Nov. 18).
- Marquee Dayclub Dome at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas presents a set by Martin Garrix on Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Marquee Nightclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas presents sets by Cedric Gervais on Friday, Nov. 17 and Mustard on Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Inspire Nightclub & Lounge presents a set by Paul Oakenfold on Friday, Nov. 17.
- Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino presents sets by Fat Joe on Thursday, Nov. 16, Fisher on Friday, Nov. 17 and Steve Aoki on Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World Las Vegas presents a performance by Travis Scott on Thursday, Nov. 16, and sets by Zedd and DJ Snake on Friday, Nov. 17 and Tiësto on Saturday, Nov. 18.
- TAO Nightclub at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas presents a set by Lil Jon on Saturday, Nov. 18.
- Voltaire Belle de Nuit at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas presents Amber Lounge, an exclusive afterparty experience following the race on Saturday, Nov. 18. The pop-up features a performance by Kylie Minogue and a DJ set from Jellybean Benitez.
- Encore Beach Club at Wynn Las Vegas presents sets by Dom Dolla and Purple Disco Machine on Friday, Nov. 17; ESPN’s Official Pre-Race Party with Marshmello and special guest Tyga on Saturday, Nov. 18; and a set by The Chainsmokers on Sunday, Nov. 19.
- XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas presents sets by Marshmello on Wednesday, Nov. 15; Sports Illustrated Circuit Series with The Chainsmokers on Thursday, Nov. 16: Swedish House Mafia on Friday, Nov. 17; Calvin Harris, Diplo and Dom Dolla on Saturday, Nov. 18; and RÜFÜS DU SOL and Black Coffee on Sunday, Nov. 19.
GETTING AROUND THE DESTINATION
Offering seven stops along the Strip, the Las Vegas Monorail will operate continuously from 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 14 through 3 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 20, ensuring fans can conveniently access the race footprint. Attendees can plan ahead and find the closest station to each race zone via this easy to follow map.
Individual rides and multi-day passes can be purchased at a discounted rate here.
For more information about Las Vegas, please visit www.VisitLasVegas.com.
ABOUT THE LVCVA
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide and with operating the 4.6 million square-foot Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). With more than 150,000 hotel rooms and more than 15 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space in Las Vegas alone, the LVCVA’s mission centers on attracting leisure and business visitors to the area. The LVCVA also owns the Vegas Loop at Las Vegas Convention Center, designed and operated by The Boring Company, and also owns the Las Vegas Monorail, an elevated 3.9-mile system with seven stops throughout the resort corridor. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com, www.visitlasvegas.com or www.vegasmeansbusiness.com.Post Views: 619
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