Christmas in Las Vegas 2025: Things to Do, See, and Feel During the Most Unexpected Holiday Ever

Why Vegas Christmas Hits Different (And How the Desert Turned a Grinch Like Me Into a Believer)

Let’s start with a confession: I used to hate Christmas.

Back in Italy, it meant freezing temperatures, endless dinners with relatives I barely remembered existed, chaos in every direction, and the same loop of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” playing every fifteen minutes. Add Home Alone on repeat, fake smiles, and forced small talk, and all I wanted was to escape.

Traveling west—toward Los Angeles and the desert—became my personal rebellion.As someone who’s always hated the cold, I just wanted warmth, silence, and freedom. Vegas, in my head, was everything Christmas wasn’t: hot, loud, unapologetically over the top.

Then came Christmas 2015.

A few days before flying out here, I lost someone very close to me. I wasn’t in the mood to celebrate, let alone hear Mariah Carey or George Michael on the radio. But Vegas—somehow—helped me get through that time. It showed me a different kind of Christmas: not quiet or traditional, but comforting in its own chaotic way.

When Anna and I officially moved here in December 2019, I started to feel something shift. Maybe it’s age, maybe it’s gratitude—but Vegas taught me how to fall in love with Christmas again.

Here, the holiday spirit feels freer, less scripted. There’s glitter and noise, yes—there's crazy people on the Strip, also yes—but also kindness, community, and a sense of wonder that sneaks up on you when you least expect it.

And the irony? The very person I used to run away from every December—Mariah Carey—has chosen Vegas for her holiday residency.

This year’s biggest attraction is Mariah Carey’s “Christmastime in Las Vegas” at Dolby Live at Park MGM, running November 28th through December 13th, 2025. When the Queen of Christmas herself decides to make Vegas her home for the holidays, you know the city has officially earned its place as a true Christmas destination

The Must-See Holiday Experiences

(Ranked by Someone Who's Done Them All)

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Still the Reigning Champion

Every December, the Bellagio transforms its 14,000-square-foot conservatory into something that makes Rockefeller Center's Christmas tree in New York look understated. We're talking towering holiday trees, hundreds of thousands of flowers arranged in winter scenes, and displays that change throughout the season.

The best part? It's completely free and open 24/7.

Why we locals love it, despite it being pretty touristy: 

• No crowds if you go early morning (8 AM) or late night (after 10 PM)

• Different lighting throughout the day creates new photo opportunities

• The smell is incredible—like walking through the world's most expensive flower shop

• It's always the perfect temperature inside

Pro insider tip: Visit multiple times during your stay. The displays often change elements throughout the season, and the morning light creates completely different photo opportunities than evening visits.

We’ll talk more about it HERE, along with 15 other things to do in Las Vegas that are still worth it in 2025.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory Holiday Display

The Hidden Gem in Henderson

Every local has their "you have to see this" recommendation for visitors. This is ours. The Ethel M Chocolate Factory in Henderson wraps its cactus garden in over a million Christmas lights, creating the most uniquely Vegas holiday experience you'll find anywhere.

Picture this: thousands of desert cacti and succulents transformed into a twinkling wonderland that exists nowhere else on earth. It's about 15 minutes from the Strip, which means most tourists miss it entirely.

The chocolate factory tour is decent (free samples of surprisingly good chocolates), but the real magic happens at sunset when all the lights come on. It's more Instagram-worthy than half the paid attractions on the Strip, and it costs almost nothing.

Why we love bringing visitors here: 

• Uniquely Vegas—you can't see this anywhere else

• Perfect for sunset photos, then a full light display after dark

• Less crowded than Strip attractions

• Great for all ages, including elderly relatives who can't handle Strip walking

Getting there: Easy drive via RentalCars.com or rideshare. About 15 minutes from the central Strip hotels.

Christmas Shows Worth Your Money

(According to Someone Who's Seen Too Many Vegas Shows)

Mariah Carey:

The Holiday Experience You Can't Get Anywhere Else

Despite my repeatedly asking her to stay away from me, Mariah Carey returns to Dolby Live at Park MGM with "Christmastime in Las Vegas," running November 28th through December 13th, 2025, with all shows starting at 8:00 PM.

Real talk: Tickets will be expensive, and they'll sell out fast. But if you're doing Vegas at Christmas, and if you like the Queen of Christmas, this is the experience you'll still be talking about years from now.

Book through: Vegas.com for the best prices and VIP packages

Elf: The Musical

Family Fun That Adults Actually Enjoy

Perfect for families, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's only for kids. The Vegas production of Elf captures that childlike Christmas magic without being overly sweet or dumbed down.

We've brought adult friends to this show, and even the most cynical enjoyed it. The production values are high, the performances are energetic, and it's colorful enough to keep kids engaged while being clever enough for adults.

Best for: Families with kids ages 5+, but honestly enjoyable for anyone who doesn't hate the idea of Christmas joy.

You can find the best shows available in December HERE, including Cirque du Soleil performances, and book through the Vegas.com banner below — it’s the same site we locals use to score the best shows at the best prices.

Holiday Lights and Displays You Should Actually Drive To

Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Drive-Through Magic

This 2.5-mile drive-through light display at Las Vegas Motor Speedway features over 5 million lights and 600 animated displays. You stay in your car the entire time, which makes it perfect for families with young kids, elderly relatives, or anyone who's already walked too much on the Strip.

What makes it special: 

• Climate-controlled experience (you're in your car)

• Can bring your own snacks and drinks

• Multiple themed sections keep it interesting

• Perfect for groups who want to experience something together

Pro tip: Go on weeknights if possible. Weekend traffic can turn the 2.5-mile route into an hour-long experience, which sounds relaxing until you're stuck behind someone taking photos at every display.

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

Holiday Shopping with Entertainment

The Forum Shops transform for Christmas with decorations that make regular shopping malls look like bus stations. But here's the insider secret: it's not just about shopping.

The Fall of Atlantis show still runs throughout the holidays (free entertainment), the holiday decorations create perfect photo opportunities, and you're connected to multiple hotels via climate-controlled walkways.

Currency tip for both domestic and international visitors: we’ve written a full article to help you figure out how much cash to bring to Las Vegas, updated for 2025.

Where to Stay for the Ultimate Vegas Christmas Experience

For Families:

Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

Why it works for Christmas visits:

• The pool complex stays open (heated) with holiday decorations

• Large rooms that don't feel cramped with holiday gifts and luggage

• Connected to Luxor and Excalibur via indoor walkways

• Easy access to family-friendly Christmas activities

Mandalay Bay offers that balance of family-friendly amenities with grown-up comfort. The Shark Reef Aquarium adds an extra activity for days when you need a break from holiday crowds.

Book it through Booking.com for free cancellation and competitive rates

For Couples:

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan goes all-out for Christmas with rooftop holiday experiences, seasonal cocktails, and decorations that feel sophisticated rather than kitschy.

Why couples love it here during holidays: 

• Balconies with Strip views (perfect for holiday photos)

• Winter Wonderland rooftop experience (adults-only after certain hours)

• Connected to other hotels via pedestrian bridges

• High-end restaurants perfect for holiday date nights

Book today through: Booking.com

For Classic Vegas Christmas:

Caesars Palace

If you're doing Vegas Christmas for the first time, Caesars Palace delivers that iconic experience. Roman statues wearing Santa hats, massive holiday decorations, and you're walking distance to most major Christmas attractions.

What makes it perfect for Christmas: 

• Central Strip location puts you in the heart of holiday action

• The Forum Shops' holiday displays are right downstairs

• Multiple restaurant options for Christmas Eve dinner

• That classic "this is definitely Vegas" atmosphere

Christmas Food & Drinks:

Holiday Flavors, Vegas Style

Holiday Brunches Worth the Calories

Most Strip hotels offer special Christmas brunches, but a widely popular option is always Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas. The patio seating gives you Strip views, the French-inspired holiday menu feels special without being gimmicky, and the price point won't destroy your vacation budget.

Seasonal Cocktails That Don't Taste Like Cough Syrup

Every hotel bar creates holiday cocktails in December, but these stand out:

The Chandelier Bar at Cosmopolitan: Their mixologists treat seasonal drinks like works of art. Expect ingredients you've never heard of and presentations that are Instagram-worthy.

Skyfall Lounge at W (ex-Delano): Rooftop views with winter-spiced cocktails. Perfect for watching the sunset over the holiday-decorated Strip.

Commonwealth Downtown: Craft cocktails with local flair. Less touristy, more authentic Vegas.

Budget-Smart Christmas in Vegas

(From Locals Who Know All the Tricks)

Free Holiday Experiences

All hotel lobbies and conservatories: Bellagio, Wynn, Venetian, and others create elaborate displays accessible to everyone. You don't need to be a guest to walk through and take photos.

Fremont Street holiday light shows: The LED canopy overhead runs special Christmas displays throughout December. It's loud, bright, and completely different from the polished Strip experience.

Holiday window shopping: Forum Shops and Grand Canal Shoppes transform into winter wonderlands. Walking through costs nothing, and the people-watching is entertainment itself.

Experiences Worth the Splurge

One major show: Whether it's Mariah Carey or another holiday production, make one big entertainment purchase your holiday gift to yourself.

Enchant Christmas: The full experience is worth doing once. It's expensive, but it's also unlike anything you can do anywhere else.

A memorable holiday dinner: Choose one really special meal instead of trying to make every meal an event.

Getting Around Vegas During Christmas Week

The Strip gets more crowded during Christmas week, but it's manageable with smart planning (and using the Free maps available HERE):

Walking: Expect longer waits at crosswalks and pedestrian bridges. The weather is perfect for walking, but distances are longer than they look.

Rideshare: Surge pricing kicks in during peak times, especially Christmas Eve and the days leading up to New Year's.

Rental cars: Worth considering if you want to visit Ethel M's, Glittering Lights, or explore beyond the Strip. Plus, you'll have air conditioning and can avoid walking in crowds.

Book transportation through RentalCars.com for the best rental car deals, or arrange airport transfers through your hotel in advance.

What to Pack for Christmas in Vegas

(That First-Timers Always Forget)

Layer-friendly clothing: December days hit the 60s, but evenings drop to the 40s. Pack t-shirts for afternoon activities and light sweaters for evening shows.

Comfortable walking shoes: You'll walk more than you expect, especially if you're hotel-hopping to see different holiday displays.

Portable charger: All those holiday lights and photo opportunities will drain your phone battery faster than usual.

Light jacket or hoodie: Perfect for evening activities and outdoor events like Enchant Christmas.

Polarized Sunglasses: It's still desert sun, even in winter.

Get travel essentials delivered: Amazon.com can deliver items to your hotel before your arrival!

Pro Tip: Download our Free Essentials Guide for Las Vegas and beyond using the section below. It’s free, packed with clickable, bookable items, and will save you hours of thinking and planning.

Christmas Activities by Travel Style

For Families with Kids

• Enchant Christmas: All ages love the lights and ice skating experience

• Bellagio Conservatory: Free, stroller-friendly, and magical for children

• Elf: The Musical: Broadway-quality family entertainment

• Glittering Lights drive-through: Perfect for tired kids who've walked all day

• Adventure Dome at Circus Circus: Indoor theme park when you need a break from holiday crowds

For Couples

• Winter Wonderland at Cosmopolitan: Adults-only evening events with Strip views

• Mariah Carey's Christmas show: Once-in-a-lifetime romantic experience

• Holiday dinner at Top of the World: Romantic atmosphere with panoramic city views

• Couples spa day at Red Rock Resort: Escape Strip chaos in luxury

• Sunset at Ethel M Chocolate Factory: Unique and romantic photo opportunities

For Friend Groups

• Downtown holiday bar crawl: Fremont Street offers multiple venues within walking distance

• Holiday pool parties: Yes, pools are open and heated year-round

• Group shows and entertainment: Vegas specializes in group experiences

• Shopping at Town Square or Downtown Summerlin: Less touristy, better prices

• Day trips to Valley of Fire or Red Rock Canyon: Amazing winter weather for outdoor photos

For Solo Travelers

• Bellagio Conservatory: Easy to navigate alone, perfect for peaceful moments

• Holiday shows: Vegas is incredibly solo-travel friendly for entertainment

• Food tours: Join group tours featuring holiday menus and seasonal specialties

• Photography walks: Decorated hotels provide endless photo opportunities

• Volunteer opportunities: Many Las Vegas organizations need extra help during the holidays.

What has personally helped me a lot in my constant search for meaning in life is “giving” instead of “consuming.” If you want to make Christmas more humane (both for you and those you help), take a look at the requests posted on uwsn.org or www.candlelightersnv.org.

Advanced Tips from Vegas Locals

Sign up for hotel loyalty programs before you book: MGM Rewards, Caesars Rewards, and others sometimes unlock free perks like room upgrades, free parking, or late checkout during the holidays.

Christmas Day is different: Most shows go dark, many restaurants close early, and some attractions have limited hours. Plan accordingly.

The week between Christmas and New Year's changes energy: If you're staying through New Year's Eve, expect a completely different crowd—younger, louder, more party-focused.

Make dinner reservations now: Popular restaurants book up weeks in advance for Christmas week. Don't wait until you arrive.

Expert Tips Only for Smart Travelers

Download Your FREE Vegas Maps!

We’ve grouped and made available right here all the essential maps you’ll need — from the main Hotel & Casino maps to transportation routes and nearby parks and experiences. Trust us… You’ll thank us later!

Get the “Local’s Survival Guide” to Las Vegas

Grab our stress-free, tourist-trap-proof guide packed with everything you need to experience Vegas like a local — especially during the crowded holiday season.

It’s your smart traveler’s secret weapon, with all the insider knowledge of Vegas right in the palm of your hand — available even when you don't have Wi-Fi, and it costs less than a bottle of water on the Strip.

👉 Don’t miss it if you truly want to TRAVEL SMART:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Las Vegas crowded during Christmas week?

Yes, but not as intensely as New Year's Eve. Christmas Day falls on Thursday in 2025, creating an extended holiday weekend, so expect higher crowds Thursday through Sunday. Monday-Wednesday are typically more manageable.

Do all Vegas shows run during Christmas week?

Most shows run through December 23rd, then many go dark on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Mariah Carey's performances end on December 13th, 2025, so book early. Cirque du Soleil shows and long-running productions usually have limited Christmas schedules.

What's the weather really like in Vegas at Christmas?

Perfect. Daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s, evenings in the 40s-50s. You'll need layers, but you can leave heavy winter coats at home. It's ideal weather for walking the Strip and outdoor activities.

Are Christmas activities in Vegas actually family-friendly?

Absolutely. Vegas has transformed from its adults-only reputation. Enchant Christmas, Bellagio Conservatory, and most holiday displays are designed for all ages. Many hotels offer family-friendly holiday programming.

How far in advance should I book Christmas week in Vegas?

For hotels and major shows like Mariah Carey, book as soon as tickets go on sale—often 3-6 months ahead. For restaurants, 2-4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient, but popular spots like Mon Ami Gabi or Eiffel Tower Restaurant need earlier reservations.