Las Vegas, Nevada — The vibrant city known for its neon lights, casinos, and unforgettable nightlife just turned 120 years old, and the celebration is as bold as the city itself. To mark this major milestone, Las Vegas has rolled out an impressive lineup of events, performances, exhibitions, and local initiatives that stretch across the valley — honoring its colorful past while embracing its bright future.
Founded on May 15, 1905, Las Vegas has transformed from a modest railroad stop into a global destination for entertainment, tourism, and culture. Over the decades, it has become a city that symbolizes dreams, risk-taking, and reinvention.
The 120th birthday celebration serves as a reflection of the city’s incredible journey. From the era of mobsters and Rat Pack glam to the high-rise resorts and mega-concerts of today, Las Vegas has continually redefined what a city can be.
Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman said during the opening ceremony at the Historic Fifth Street School, “Las Vegas is more than just casinos and shows. It’s a city built by dreamers, artists, innovators, and workers who believed in the impossible.”
This year’s celebration highlights the city’s resilience and evolution. From withstanding economic downturns to bouncing back after the pandemic, Las Vegas has always found ways to reinvent and revive itself.
A series of spectacular events are taking place all month long, inviting residents and tourists alike to join the party.
Downtown Las Vegas is the hub of the celebration. The Fremont Street Experience is hosting free nightly concerts featuring local and national artists. Giant projection shows on the LED canopy trace the history of Las Vegas — from dusty desert town to global hotspot.
Visitors can also enjoy historical walking tours, art installations, and street performances that showcase the city’s cultural roots.
The Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum have all launched special exhibitions for the 120th celebration. These exhibits offer a deep dive into the city’s unique past, from the days of prohibition and the rise of iconic neon signs to the city’s development boom in the 20th century.
Find more about The Mob Museum’s 120th Anniversary events here.
The city hosted a grand parade through downtown with floats representing different eras of Vegas history. Local schools, businesses, and civic groups participated, making it a true community event.
Family-friendly festivals have also popped up across neighborhoods, featuring food trucks, carnival rides, local bands, and historical reenactments.
Several major resorts, including Caesars Palace, Bellagio, and The Venetian, have joined in with themed shows, limited-edition cocktails, fireworks, and giveaways. Many have also partnered with local artists to highlight Vegas culture through dance, music, and fashion.
Explore the current events at Visit Las Vegas.
The citywide celebration doesn’t just focus on its famous Strip. There is a strong push to recognize local heroes, businesses, and communities that shaped Las Vegas over the decades.
In the Las Vegas Arts District, dozens of artists are showcasing original works inspired by the city’s past and future. A series of murals are also being painted across the area, with themes like “The Spirit of Vegas” and “120 Years of Dreams.”
The City of Las Vegas is also giving out “Local Legacy” awards to long-standing community members who have significantly contributed to the city’s development. Honorees include educators, civil rights leaders, performers, and even retired casino workers.
The birthday bash is not only about history — it’s also good for business. Local officials estimate that the celebrations could generate an additional $200 million in tourism revenue this month alone.
Hotels have reported higher-than-usual bookings, and travel sites like Expedia have noted a 15% surge in searches for Las Vegas trips during the anniversary period.
Find hotel deals and travel ideas on Expedia’s Las Vegas Guide.
As Las Vegas steps into its 121st year, city leaders are already planning the next chapter. Mayor Goodman announced a new revitalization plan focused on sustainable growth, affordable housing, and making the city more tech-friendly.
Plans include expansion of the high-speed rail project between Las Vegas and Southern California, more green spaces in urban areas, and further investment in the arts and education sectors.
The city is also aiming to become a smart city with increased use of data-driven infrastructure and digital services for residents.
Las Vegas’ 120th birthday is more than a celebration — it’s a reminder of how a city with a unique spirit and the will to adapt can grow into something extraordinary.
What began as a desert stopover is now a global phenomenon, and this celebration has only further cemented its place as a cultural icon.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s never been a better time to experience the magic of Las Vegas. The city’s 120th birthday is not just a party — it’s a tribute to its identity, resilience, and future ambitions.
So if you’re planning your next vacation, don’t miss the chance to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. From the iconic lights of the Strip to the soul of its neighborhoods, Las Vegas is shining brighter than ever.
Looking for more on Las Vegas history or travel?
Check out Las Vegas News for updates on local events, history highlights, and community stories.
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