SPORTS
South Point 400 weekend
Kyle Larson recently secured a victory at Charlotte, placing him at the forefront of the NASCAR standings as he aims to defend his title at the South Point 400. The event is set for Sunday at 11:30 a.m. at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with tickets starting from $64; ticketmaster.com. Prior to this, the Ambetter Health 302 Xfinity Series playoff race will take place at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets for that event start at $28; ticketmaster.com.
Christopher Lawrence
Brad Paisley performs on stage at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, in Alpharetta, Ga. (Paul R. Giunta/Invision/AP)
MUSIC
Brad Paisley
Renowned for his exceptional guitar skills and sharp wit, Brad Paisley has established himself as a unique comedic talent in Nashville. However, his upcoming album, “Son of the Mountains,” takes a more serious tone with the single “Same Here,” a poignant ballad inspired by the situation in Ukraine that features a cameo by the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Catch Paisley at the Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas at 8 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Tickets start at $55; ticketmaster.com.
Jason Bracelin
Don Stephenson as Doc Brown and Caden Brauch as Marty McFly in “Back to the Future: The Musical.” (Matthew Murphy/Evan Zimmerman)
THEATER
‘Back to the Future: The Musical’
Whoa, this is heavy! “Back to the Future: The Musical” is making its debut in Las Vegas as part of the Broadway Las Vegas Series. Journey back in time with Marty McFly at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday and 2 p.m.
7:30 p.m. Thursday, with additional performances scheduled through Nov. 3, in Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center. Ticket prices begin at $40.30; thesmithcenter.com.
Christopher Lawrence
The Las Vegas Book Festival took place at the Historic Fifth Street School at 401 S. 4th St. in Las Vegas on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. (Las Vegas Review-Journal/File)
BOOKS
Las Vegas Book Festival
Las Vegas welcomes the Pope of Trash. John Waters, the creative force behind “Pink Flamingos” and “Hairspray,” is set to headline the Las Vegas Book Festival with a conversation about his debut novel, “Liarmouth: A Feel-Bad Romance.” This discussion is planned for 2:15 p.m. Saturday at the Historic Fifth Street School. Tracy Wolff, known for the “Crave” series, will present her work at 12:30 p.m., while Nicola Yoon will discuss her latest book, “One of Our Kind,” at 4 p.m. Entry is free; lasvegasbookfestival.com.
Christopher Lawrence
The Downtown Brew Festival is back at the Clark County Amphitheater on Saturday. (Fred Morledge)
BEER
Downtown Brew Festival
The Downtown Brew Festival, hosted by Motley Brews, takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. (4 p.m. for VIP entry) Saturday at the Clark County Amphitheater, located at 500 S. Grand Central Parkway. Guests can enjoy over 200 beers from 60 breweries, delicious food pairings from local eateries, and live music. Tickets start at $55; downtownbrewfestival.com.
Johnathan L. Wright
<img alt="Musician Lenny Kravitz performs on NBC's Today show at Rockefeller Plaza on Thursday, Sept. 12, …" src="https://www.reviewjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/19550505_web1_AP24257138529112.jpg?w=980&is-pending-load=1" data-l
MUSIC
Lenny Kravitz
“You need to breathe and enjoy yourself,” proclaims Lenny Kravitz, the soulful throwback rocker, in his hit song “Are You Gonna Go My Way.” To facilitate that enjoyment, Kravitz is kicking off his “Blue Electric Light Las Vegas” residency. While bell-bottoms are not a requirement, they are encouraged. You can catch Kravitz performing at 8 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Wednesday at Dolby Live at Park MGM. Prices for tickets begin at $49; ticketmaster.com.
Jason Bracelin
MOVIES
‘Ghosts of Goldfield’
Debbie Isaacs is once again transforming challenges into triumphs with “The Most Horrible Horror Movie Ever.” The upcoming eighth annual screening of the campy horror flick “Ghosts of Goldfield,” which she produced in 2007, aims to support her nonprofit, Unshakeable. This organization assists women overcoming trauma. Shot entirely in Goldfield and Tonopah, the film features stars such as Kellan Lutz and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Mark your calendars for the fundraiser taking place at 6 p.m. Thursday at The Beverly Theater, and enjoy light bites paired with an open bar. Donations are welcomed; unshakeable.org.
Christopher Lawrence
ANNIVERSARY
Rampart Casino at the Resort at Summerlin is set to host a Fireworks Festival this Sunday to commemorate its 25th anniversary. (Getty Images)
Fireworks Festival
On Sunday, from 3 to 8 p.m., Rampart Casino at the Resort at Summerlin will host a Fireworks Festival to mark its 25th anniversary. The event features a 10-minute pyrotechnic display at 7 p.m., a selection of food trucks, and a live DJ. Overflow parking is available at Tivoli Village right across the street. A complimentary shuttle service will be operational during the festival; look for signs indicating the pickup and drop-off locations.
Johnathan L. Wright
Comedian Nick Swardson will be performing his “Toilet Head” tour at The Venetian this weekend. (Associated Press file)
COMEDY
Nick Swardson
With a focus on humorous yet crude topics, the rowdy comic Nick Swardson is hitting the road again with his “Toilet Head” tour. Prepare to laugh, feel a bit emotional (especially if drinks run out), and potentially nurse a hangover the next day. You’ll find Swardson performing at 8:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday at the Summit Showroom at The Venetian. Tickets are priced from $41; ticketmaster.com.
Jason Bracelin
NIGHTLIFE
Disco of the Dead
On Thursday, from 9 p.m. to midnight, The Golden Tiki, located at 3939 Spring Mountain Road, will host Disco of the Dead, featuring classic disco tunes performed by DJs Undead Tone Def, Pat, and Skyler Villain. Be sure to wear your finest ’70s attire for this fun and spooky throwback event.
Johnathan L. Wright
Weekend Highlights: NASCAR, Music, Theater, and More in Las Vegas
1. Experience the Thrill of NASCAR at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas is revving up for an exhilarating weekend filled with NASCAR action at the iconic Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This premier racing venue hosts some of the most thrilling events in the NASCAR calendar, attracting fans from all over the globe.
Upcoming Races
| Date | Event | Time |
|---|---|---|
| March 3, 2024 | NASCAR Cup Series | 2:30 PM PST |
| March 4, 2024 | NASCAR Xfinity Series | 1:00 PM PST |
| March 5, 2024 | NASCAR Truck Series | 6:00 PM PST |
Fans can enjoy pre-race festivities, including meet-and-greets with their favorite drivers, live entertainment, and delicious food options throughout the day. Be sure to arrive early to soak in the full experience!
2. Live Music Extravaganza: Upcoming Concerts in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is renowned for its vibrant music scene, boasting performances from world-famous artists. This weekend, you can catch an array of concerts that cater to all musical tastes.
Top Concerts This Weekend
- Bruno Mars – Performing at Park MGM
- Lady Gaga – Enigma Show at MGM Park
- Maroon 5 – Live at Mandalay Bay
Whether you enjoy pop, rock, or classic hits, Las Vegas has something for everyone. Make sure to grab your tickets in advance as they often sell out quickly!
3. Captivating Theater Performances
The theater scene in Las Vegas is second to none, featuring everything from Broadway-style productions to mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil shows. Here are some must-see performances this weekend:
Featured Shows
| Show | Venue | Date & Time |
|---|---|---|
| O by Cirque du Soleil | Bellagio | March 3, 2024 at 7:00 PM |
| Hamilton | Smith Center | March 3, 2024 at 8:00 PM |
| The Beatles LOVE | Mirage | March 4, 2024 at 7:30 PM |
These shows offer a fantastic way to spend your evening while immersing yourself in the rich culture of Las Vegas.
4. Culinary Delights: Food Festivals and Fine Dining
Las Vegas is not just about entertainment; it’s also a culinary paradise. This weekend, indulge in various food festivals and try some of the finest dining options around.
Food Festivals to Explore
- Las Vegas Food & Wine Festival – Sample dishes from top chefs and enjoy wine pairings.
- Fremont Street Food Truck Fest – A variety of food trucks offering unique cuisines.
Top Restaurants to Dine
While food festivals are exciting, don’t forget about the amazing restaurants scattered across the city:
- Joël Robuchon – French fine dining experience at MGM Grand.
- é by José Andrés – An exclusive dining experience with a unique tasting menu.
- Lotus of Siam – Celebrated for its authentic Thai cuisine.
5. Exclusive Weekend Events and Activities
Las Vegas is always buzzing with events and activities, especially on the weekends. Here are some you shouldn’t miss:
Special Events
- First Friday Art Celebration – Explore local art and enjoy live entertainment in the Arts District.
- The Vegas Golden Knights Game – Catch the excitement of NHL hockey at T-Mobile Arena.
- Las Vegas Market – Discover home furnishings and décor trends.
6. Tips for Enjoying Your Weekend in Las Vegas
To make the most of your Las Vegas weekend getaway, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Purchase tickets for events and shows in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Stay Hydrated: Las Vegas can get hot, so drink plenty of water, especially if you’re spending your day outdoors.
- Use Rideshare Services: Consider using rideshare apps to navigate the city easily without the hassle of parking.
- Explore Beyond the Strip: Check out local eateries and attractions off the main tourist areas for a more authentic experience.
7. Case Study: Local Experiences in Las Vegas
Many locals have shared positive experiences about enjoying weekends in Las Vegas. For instance, one resident highlighted the excitement of attending the NASCAR races along with friends, combining racing with a tailgate party filled with delicious food.
Additionally, a couple shared their experience of attending a Cirque du Soleil show followed by a romantic dinner at one of the high-end restaurants on the Strip. They emphasized how easy it was to find diverse entertainment options and the vibrant nightlife that Las Vegas offers.
8. Final Thoughts on Your Weekend in Las Vegas
With its dynamic array of events, from NASCAR races to music concerts, theater performances, and gourmet dining, Las Vegas truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of excitement waiting for you this weekend!
