Contrary to what you might see in movies, Las Vegas is not just mobsters and Elvis impersonators. It's a vibrant vacation destination, and not just for gamblers and raging bachelorette parties. Casinos are focusing on providing world class dining,
hotel, and spa experiences--and that's just on the strip! Best of all, the city's making great strides to welcome gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender visitors who are looking to have the time of their lives--on and off the strip.
Here's a look ahead to some of the best LGBT-relevant events coming your gay way in Vegas. And for more info about hot shows running in town now (Hello Bette Midler! Hey Cher! Bonjour Cirque du Soleil!), buzzworthy nightlif, and fierce food from star chefs, check out our
Vegas Destination file.
WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS...
Gay Days & Nights Presents The Best of Las Vegas
July 3-6
http://www.gaydaysandnights.com/
Don't have plans for July 4th? Cirque Du Soleil presents 4 days of fun and activities for LGBT visitors to Las Vegas. Happening over July 4th weekend, the weekend kicks off with an underwear fashion show at Paris Las Vegas' Risque nightclub to benefit Vegas LGBT organizations. Lesbians can celebrate independence day at club Gipsy Friday the 4th with a special party put on by Vegas' largest lesbian social group, and on Saturday night at Candy Bar. There are all sorts of shopping and social activities planned, too. Vegas is turning out to be quite the gay mecca!
The Official Star Trek Las Vegas Convention
August 6-10
http://www.creationent.com/cal/stlv.htm
Get your Jean-Luc Picard on at the Las Vegas Hilton for this event where thousands of Trekkies gather to schmooze with stars of the show, purchase memorabilia in daily auctions, and they can even compete in a costume contest! C'mon, you know deep down you've fantasized about Patrick Stewart or Marina Sirtis (or both!)...
HRC Gala Dinner
September 6
http://lasvegas.hrc.org/dinner
Held at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, this event will entail engaging speakers, a fabulous dinner, and 'fun-filled' entertainment. We're not sure what that means, but it's a great cause--and the Mandalay [Gay] Bay is a great hotel.
Bear Dip 3
September 13
http://kumakorner.ning.com/
Yes, bears exist in the desert. On June 28th, they'll be gathering en masse at Blue Moon Resort, one of the only gay men's hotels in Vegas. It's $25 to get in and BYOB, but we hear it's definitely worth the price.
Las Vegas Bikefest 2008
October 2-5
http://www.lasvegasbikefest.com
Motorcycle (and leather?) enthusiasts will encounter over 300 vendors and 40,000 bikers over 4 days. Parties, contests, demo rides, and an annual 'Artistry in Iron' competition will be available for bikers of all ages and backgrounds, gay and straight. Start growing out that handlebar 'stache now...
International Gem & Jewelry Show
December 5-7
http://www.intergem.net/
With gay marriage legal in California, it's time to shop for great wedding rings at the International Gem & Jewelry Show in Las Vegas. Or, pursue the bling of your dreams by perusing vendors from all over the world selling the finest gold, silver, diamonds, and other jewelry.
For more info on gay-friendly Las Vegas, including where to stay, eat, and party, check out our Destination guide to Las Vegas.
If you're planning a visit to Las Vegas, check out Visit Las Vegas which has a ton of info for all prospective visitors to Las Vegas.
