Most of my trips to Las Vegas have been in the warmer months, so when I had the opportunity to visit in the winter, I was excited to see how Sin City does December. Honestly, it transforms Las Vegas into a holiday wonderland, bursting with festive activities and dazzling displays. Beyond gambling, there were so many things to do in Las Vegas in December that I honestly didn’t have time to do them all (no matter how hard I tried). The city, known for its vibrant nightlife, also shines brightly during this season, so don’t skip out just because it’s a bit cooler.
In fact, the weather in Las Vegas during December makes it perfect for outdoor activities without the summer heat. Walking the Strip with pants and a hoodie was perfect – I could take off a layer when I felt the desert sun, but had it handy when needed.
Whether you’re looking for holiday displays, lively shows, or unique shopping experiences, you’ll find plenty of options to make your visit unforgettable. These things to do in Las Vegas will have you in the holiday spirit in no time!
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Weather in Las Vegas in December
In December, Las Vegas greets visitors with mild winter weather. Temperatures typically range from a pleasant 20°C (60°F) during the day to a chillier 10°C (27°F) at night. Given these conditions, layering your clothing is wise, especially for night-time activities. I was pleasantly surprised with how warm it was in the sun so it was good to be able to take a layer off.
Rainfall is minimal, with an average of just 0.5 inches throughout the month and about four rainy days. Early December might bring some cloudy weather and sporadic showers, which could occasionally reduce visibility at higher points around the city. We only had some clouds in the morning that usually cleared up by mid-morning.
Although snow rarely falls in the city itself, nearby Mt. Charleston provides opportunities for enjoying snow sports. If planning a trip there, prepare for winter driving conditions with snow tires or chains.
Do you need to rent a car in Las Vegas in December?
Normally, I don’t rent a car when traveling unless I’m planning on road trips or a lot of day trips. However, DiscoverCars reached out to partner with me and I thought ‘why not?’ Renting a car from the Las Vegas airport was easy, and I ended up having a lot more freedom to get away from the Strip. We planned a day trip to Hoover Dam and Boulder City for which we weren’t tied to a group. However, if you plan on staying on the Strip, parking can be expensive (depending on where you stay).
Benefits of Renting a Car:
- Convenience: No need to wait for public transportation or expensive cabs.
- Flexibility: Create your own itinerary and travel on your schedule.
- Explore More: Visit nearby attractions like the Hoover Dam and Lee Canyon for a winter wonderland experience.
DiscoverCars is a reliable platform to consider when renting a car in Las Vegas. It offers competitive rates and a wide range of vehicle options to suit any budget. Whether you’re planning a trip to Fremont Street’s vibrant light displays or a peaceful day sipping hot chocolate by an ice skating rink, renting a car can enhance your Las Vegas holiday season experience.
Best Things to Do in Las Vegas in December
Bellagio Conservatory: A Dazzling Wonderland
One of my favorite things to see at any time of the year in Las Vegas is the Bellagio Conservatory. It changes displays throughout the year and I’ve never seen the same display twice. So it’s the perfect place to start your holiday festivities in Las Vegas. Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Bellagio Conservatory, where a colossal holiday display captivates visitors from November 16 through early January. This stunning exhibit, crafted from living plants and flowers, draws inspiration from classic tales like The Nutcracker.
No matter what time of the year you visit, the Bellagio Conservatory is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas. Children and adults alike will be enchanted by the festive decorations that transform this space into a winter wonderland each year. The design and creation of this spectacle involve 100 skilled workers, ensuring a breathtaking display.
Complementing the Conservatory’s exhibits, the outside Bellagio Fountains offer choreographed shows set to popular holiday music. These performances add an extra touch of holiday spirit to your visit. They are currently adding a “Fountain Club,” so much of the view is blocked, but you can still see the fountains from the site.
I recommend getting to Bellagio Conservancy early in the day to avoid the crowds. Since this is one of the most famous holiday experiences, it gets crowded quickly.
Location: Bellagio Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas
Ethel M Cactus Garden: A Unique Holiday Display
The Ethel M Cactus Garden is a must-see during the holiday season in Las Vegas. Located at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, this spectacular display features over half a million lights. Unlike typical holiday décor, it showcases more than 300 types of cacti, including spotted aloe and Texas prickly pears.
Visitors can enjoy an immersive experience from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night in December. It’s free to enter, offering an accessible festive experience for everyone, making it one of the popular tourist attractions in the area. The garden transforms into a glittering winter wonderland, with animated reindeer adding to the holiday spirit.
A visit to this delightful spot promises unforgettable experiences, combining festive cheer with the unique desert aesthetics of Las Vegas. The Ethel M Cactus Garden stands out by creating a holiday display unlike any other, merging the beauty of nature with dazzling lights.
Unfortunately, we got to the chocolate factory during the daytime, so we didn’t get to see the 500,000 lights on. However, we did get to enjoy the different types of cacti before heading in to enjoy some delicious chocolates (which are not free).
This is not easy to get to via public transportation, so Uber or a rental car is recommended.
Location: 6414-6368 S. Mountain Vista St, Henderson, Nevada
The Great Santa Run: A Festive Race
The Great Santa Run is an exciting holiday activity taking place in the beginning of December at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center. Organized by Opportunity Village, this event supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Participants can join either a 5k or a 1-mile race, making it accessible for all fitness levels. The event is also stroller, pet, and wheelchair-friendly, ensuring everyone can partake in the festive spirit. As part of the entry fee, each runner will receive a five-piece Santa Claus suit, a finisher’s medal, and a swag bag.
The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line. The race will feature live entertainment, festive music, and an after-party, creating an unforgettable experience to celebrate participants’ achievements.
Location: 200 S. 3rd Street, Las Vegas
Ice Skating at The Cosmopolitan: Gliding in Style
Experience the magic of ice skating in the desert at The Cosmopolitan’s Ice Rink, a top holiday activity in Las Vegas. Spread across 4,200 square feet, this rooftop attraction offers a quintessential winter experience right in the heart of the city.
As you glide along the real ice, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with magical snowfall every 30 minutes, transforming the rink into a true winter wonderland. After skating, cozy up around the fire pits and enjoy seasonal food and drinks from a delightful menu.
The Ice Rink is open daily from noon to 11 p.m. throughout December, making it an ideal spot for holiday celebrations. Admission for locals is $20, while tourists can enjoy this unforgettable experience for $30, with skate rentals included for the entire day.
Whether you’re looking for immersive experiences or simply want to relax with hot chocolate by the fire, The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan promises a festive and memorable day.
Location: 3708 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas
The LINQ Promenade: Holiday Entertainment Hub
The LINQ Promenade transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland every December, making it a top destination for holiday spirit in Las Vegas. This lively area is filled with festive decorations and the cheerful sounds of carolers and holiday music, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Honestly, every time I went to the LINQ or through it, there was something new to find.
Every evening during the holiday season, the Promenade hosts a free holiday show featuring singing and dancing performances, adding to the festive experience. You can enjoy the vibrant ambiance and partake in various holiday festivities without any admission cost. There were also themed holiday drinks from the bars, decorations around every corner, and even people dressed up in costumes from Holiday movies.
A highlight of the Promenade is the High Roller Ferris wheel, which is beautifully adorned with seasonal decorations, enhancing the atmosphere even further. It serves as a great vantage point for enjoying the views of this winter wonderland. Even outside the casino you can enjoy the lights of the High Roller.
Location: 3545 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas
Concerts and Shows: A Winter Wonderland of Talent
Las Vegas is known for its over-the-top shows throughout the year. However, during the holiday season, most of them tend to add in some holiday songs or decorations. New Year’s Eve is a party on the entire strip too!
This year, big-name artists like Shania Twain, Brad Paisley, and Social Distortion grace the stages, infusing the city with holiday spirit.
Renowned live shows such as Cirque du Soleil and the Blue Man Group provide unforgettable experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We got to see Mystere by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island, and while it wasn’t ‘holiday themed’ it was an incredible show.
For those worried about budget, tickets start as low as $22, with significant discounts available when booked online. This makes it easy to enjoy a variety of shows without breaking the bank.
With diverse dining options nearby, an evening of entertainment in Las Vegas offers an incredible winter weekend getaway for visitors.
Lee Canyon: Wintry Outdoor Adventures
Just an hour’s drive from downtown Las Vegas, Lee Canyon is a perfect winter wonderland offering incredible outdoor activities. With an average of 212 inches of snow every year, the conditions are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
The slopes feature three lifts and 30 trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to try skiing or an expert looking to hone your skills, Lee Canyon caters to everyone. Local coaches are available for lessons and technique pointers to enhance your skiing experience.
Whether you are skiing, snowboarding or tubing, get out an enjoy the winter sports at Lee Canyon!
After a thrilling day on the slopes, indulge in the local aprés ski scene. Savor the cozy atmosphere before heading back to Las Vegas for a relaxing evening.
Location: 6725 Lee Canyon Road, Las Vegas
Holiday Shopping: Unique Gifts and Souvenirs
December in Las Vegas offers a fantastic array of holiday shopping experiences. While almost every casino has top names (pretty sure I saw 7 Louis Vuittons), there are some places that stand out. Here are some top spots for unique gifts and souvenirs:
- Las Vegas Premium Outlets and Fashion Show Mall: These shopping hubs host ongoing Black Friday sales throughout the month, providing budget-friendly deals.
- Cowboy Christmas at the National Finals Rodeo (December 5 – 14): Located at the Las Vegas Convention Center, this event showcases distinctive holiday shopping opportunities.
- Bellagio Conservatory: Explore nearby boutique stores set against a backdrop of stunning floral arrangements and festive decorations, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Fontainebleau Las Vegas: Participate in holiday-themed events like wreath-making sessions that make for memorable and unique gifts.
- The Magical Forest: This holiday-season wonderland doubles as a shopping destination, offering special gifts while supporting local charities.
These options not only provide gifts but also a festive experience wrapped in the holiday spirit. Enjoy the mix of immersive experiences and unforgettable memories as you search for that perfect gift or Las Vegas souvenir.
Whether you’re on a budget or looking for something extravagant, the array of shopping locations ensures something for everyone during your incredible winter weekend in Las Vegas! Honestly, my favorite souvenir from this trip was a realistic banana magnet (and it’s already sparked conversations in my house from guests haha). Trust me, you’ll be able to find whatever you want and things you didn’t even know you needed!
The Neon Museum: Festive Lights in a Historic Setting
The Neon Museum (also known as the Boneyard) in Las Vegas is a dazzling destination to explore in December. During the holiday season, this popular attraction is aglow with festive lights, offering a unique blend of traditional Christmas decorations and iconic neon signs. This creates a distinctive visual experience that celebrates both the holiday spirit and the city’s vibrant history.
It’s in a historic setting; the Neon Boneyard offers a nostalgic backdrop for its vivid light displays. The combination of festive lights and vintage signage crafts a joyous and memorable ambiance for visitors. You’ll literally walk through history here. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who wish to enjoy a holiday experience that is rich in history and festive cheer.
Even if you’re not visiting Las Vegas in December, I do recommend checking out the Neon Museum for an in depth look at the history of Sin City.
Glittering Lights in the Las Vegas Speedway
There is nothing that gets me in the holiday spirit like Christmas lights. So when I found out about Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, I couldn’t pass it up. This incredible drive-through light display stretches nearly three miles, allowing visitors to enjoy a breathtaking array of holiday lights from the comfort of their cars. It’s a unique viewing opportunity that ensures a delightful festive experience without ever stepping outside.
Not only that, the Boy Scouts greet you with a map, snacks for purchase including popcorn and candy, and hot chocolate or apple cider.
Driving through and listening to Christmas music with hot chocolate was awesome. It’s one of the largest drive-thru holiday light displays in the United States.
Location: 7000 Las Vegas Boulevard North
Henderson’s WinterFest
Henderson’s WinterFest is Southern Nevada’s biggest holiday celebration, perfect for embracing the holiday spirit in December. This festive event kicks off with a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony at the beginning of the month. Adding a modern twist to this traditional celebration, visitors can enjoy a special drone show on the same night.
The festivities continue with the vibrant Electric Light Parade the evening after the tree lighting ceremony, offering a colorful spectacle that brings joy to attendees.
For those who love music, the Henderson Symphony Orchestra will be performing live, filling the air with holiday tunes. Water Street Plaza enhances the holiday cheer with sparkling festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
These incredible experiences make Henderson’s WinterFest a must-visit holiday activity, offering something for everyone during this starlit season. Whether you’re seeking music, lights, or a unique holiday spectacle, WinterFest is sure to provide unforgettable memories.
Location: Henderson, Nevada
Casinos with the Best Holiday Decor
Las Vegas is known for its grand casinos, and during the holiday season, these venues transform into festive spectacles. At the Bellagio Hotel & Casino, visitors can experience a colossal holiday display at the Bellagio Conservatory. This enchanting setup is inspired by classic tales, featuring living plants and stunning floral arrangements, creating a whimsical environment.
The LINQ Promenade offers a magical festive atmosphere with magnificent Christmas decorations and festive music filling the air. On select dates, guests can enjoy holiday magic shows and listen to carolers, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Meanwhile, Fontainebleau Las Vegas turns into a winter wonderland with a striking seasonal display that guests can enjoy until January 5. Enchant at the Las Vegas Ballpark offers a festive experience with its stunning light maze and themed decorations, perfect for those seeking holiday cheer and activities.
Wynn Las Vegas adds to the magic with its breathtaking lobby display filled with holiday decor. I was surprised to see such a magical display since I didn’t see it mentioned in my research. But no matter where I went in Wynn, I found beautiful holiday decor, so be sure to add it to your list. Bonus: it’s less crowded than the Bellagio!
These casinos not only promise holiday magic but offer unforgettable experiences for visitors during the holiday season.
Final Thoughts
Spending time in Las Vegas in December offers an array of holiday activities and unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re strolling along the luminous Fremont Street, indulging in a winter wonderland experience at Lee Canyon, or sipping hot chocolate under the festive light displays, there’s something magical around every corner. The city comes alive with spectacular attractions like the Ice Rink or the South Rim tours, providing both thrilling adventures and serene holiday moments. Meanwhile, vibrant shows add a cultural flair to the bright holiday spirit. Whether it’s enjoying the immersive light displays or experiencing the festive atmosphere, Las Vegas in December ensures a stellar winter weekend getaway.
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Save “Things to Do in Las Vegas in December” for Later
It sounds like there are plenty of ways to get into the festive spirit despite the lack of snow. We’d enjoy visiting Lee Canyon to enjoy some outdoor adventures during the day, then visiting the lights in the city in the evenings.
Wow, there is so much to do! The Winterfest seems fun. I have never been to Vegas for Christmas but it seems fun. Thanks for sharing!
Ironically, the only time I’ve been in Las Vegas was on NYE one year, and that was purely by accident! I didn’t do much besides just walk around and get out of there before the festivities started haha. If I found myself back there in the winter though, the cactus garden sounds really cool! And the chocolate factory – yum!