Las Vegas, known for its iconic Las Vegas strip, live performances, and of course the casinos it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas markets. However, this desert oasis transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, with a variety of markets, events, and displays that capture the spirit of Christmas.
In this article, we will explore the 10+ best ways to spend Christmas in Las Vegas that offer a unique blend of holiday cheer and Sin City's flair.
The Best Things to do During Christmas in Las Vegas 2025
1. Ethel M Chocolate Factory's Holiday Cactus Garden
Dates and times: November 6 - January 3, 2026, from 5.00 p.m. - 10.00 p.m. Subject to holiday hours.
Address: 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson
Entrance price: Free
Located in nearby Henderson, the Ethel M Chocolate Factory's Holiday Cactus Garden is a breathtaking display of hundreds of thousands of holiday lights decorating the factory's three-acre cactus garden. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the illuminated garden while savoring gourmet chocolates.
2. Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Dates and times: November 7, 2025 - January 4th, 2026, starting 4.30 p.m.
Address: 7000 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas
Entrance price: See website for details
Glittering Lights is a popular drive-through holiday light show at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It features millions of LED lights arranged in captivating displays. You can enjoy this spectacular show from the comfort of your vehicle while listening to synchronized holiday music.
3. Mystic Falls Park Winter Wonderland
Dates and times: November 26, 2025 - January 2, 2026. Open Fridays from 4:00 p.m. - 10.00 p.m., weekends from 11.00 a.m - 7.00 p.m. with an hour break from 3.00 - 4.00 p.m.
Address: 5111 Boulder Hwy, Las Vegas
Entrance price: Free
Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall transforms its atrium into Mystic Falls Park during the holiday season. This Western-themed holiday display includes a festive laser light show, a decked-out cowboy Santa Claus, and a scenic waterfall.
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4. Downtown Summerlin Holiday Parade
Dates and times: TBA, last year took place during: November 17th, 2025 - December 16th, 2025, from 6.00 p.m.
Address: 1980 Festival Plaza Dr, Las Vegas
Entrance price: Free (Typically)
Downtown Summerlin, a shopping and entertainment district, hosts a festive holiday parade featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and an appearance by Santa Claus. The parade is followed by a tree lighting ceremony, making it a joyful family-friendly event.
This year, visit Summerlin for spectacular shows, which are all free to the general public.
5. Magical Forest at Opportunity Village
Dates and times:
Dates:
November 28th, 2025 - November 30th, 2025
December 4th, 2025 - December 7th, 2025
December 11th, 2025 - December 24th, 2025
December 26th, 2025 - December 31st, 2025
Times:
Sunday - Thursday from 5.30 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday from 5.30 p.m. - 9.30 p.m.
Closed on December 25, 2025
Address: 6050 S. Buffalo Dr. Las Vegas
Entrance price: TBA
Opportunity Village's Magical Forest is a cherished Las Vegas holiday tradition. This enchanting attraction includes millions of sparkling lights, a carousel, a train ride, and nightly entertainment. Plus, your visit supports a meaningful cause, as proceeds benefit individuals with disabilities.
7. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Dates and times:
Harvest
9/13/2025 - 11/8/2025
Holiday
11/15/2025 - 1/3/2026
Lunar New Year
1/10/2026 – 3/7/2026
Address: 3600 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas
Entrance price: Free
The Bellagio Hotel and Casino's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens undergo a festive transformation for the holidays. This indoor garden features stunning holiday-themed floral arrangements, towering Christmas trees, and whimsical decorative elements.
Every year, the conservatory has 5 rotating displays, and it gets especially sparkly during the holiday season. Most of all, it’s free for the general public!
8. The Great Santa Run
Dates and times: December 6th, 2025
Address: Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, 200 S. 3rd Street. Las Vegas
Entrance price:
- July 30 – September 29: $42.50
- September 30 – November 22: $52.50
- November 23 – December 6: $57.50
Join thousands of Santa-clad participants in the annual Great Santa Run, a charity event that benefits Opportunity Village. This festive 5K run/walk through downtown Las Vegas is a lively celebration of the season.
While this technically isn’t a market, it is still a festive activity for a good cause. Plus, you’ll be running in a Santa suit.
9. Tivoli Village Nutcracker Night Market
Dates and times: December 11 - December 18, 2025, from 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Address: The Piazza, 400 S. Rampart Blvd. Las Vegas
Entrance price: Free
Tivoli Village transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, offering a delightful holiday market, festive decorations, and a chance to meet Santa Claus. The charming atmosphere makes it a great place to shop for gifts and enjoy the season.
This year, the Nutcracker night market will be open on all of December’s Fridays and Saturdays. It will feature live entertainment, holiday lights, and unique crafts.
10. Market In The Valley
Dates and times: November 26 - December 31, 2025, from 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Address: 2240 Village Walk Dr, Henderson
Entrance price: Free
The District at Green Valley Ranch hosts a variety of holiday events, including a tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, and a holiday market featuring unique gifts and seasonal treats. It's a local favorite for holiday shopping and celebration.
This year, it’s hosting Market In The Valley, a pop-up market that supports local businesses. Market in the Alley is dedicated to creating space to best showcase the local talent, representing the culture and craft of Las Vegas.
11. Las Vegas Farmers Market at Downtown Summerlin
Dates and times: Every Saturday, from 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.
Address: The Pavilion at Downtown Summerlin, 1980 Festival Plaza Dr, Las Vegas
Entrance price: Free
The Las Vegas Farmers Market at Downtown Summerlin takes on a festive twist during the holiday season. You can find local artisan vendors offering handmade gifts, seasonal produce, and gourmet treats, making it an ideal place for holiday shopping.
Bring your friends and family, and visit the friendly farmers to taste fresh European-style bread, avocados, and a wide variety of fruits.
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Christmas in Las Vegas – What you need to know
What’s the weather like in Las Vegas in December?
Expect mild afternoons and chilly evenings. Average daytime highs are usually in the mid-50s to low-60s °F (about 12–17 °C), while nights can dip into the high-30s to low-40s °F (around 3–7 °C). Snow in the city is rare, but nearby mountains can see winter conditions. Layers are your friend.
Are there family-friendly holiday events in Las Vegas?
Yes. You’ll find kid-friendly light shows, seasonal trails, Santa meet-and-greets, ice rinks, and parades throughout late November and December. Many neighborhoods and venues run special holiday programs geared toward families.
Which festive attractions or light displays are must-see?
Top picks include the Bellagio Conservatory’s holiday display, Enchant Christmas (light maze & market), rooftop ice skating rinks, the Ethel M Holiday Cactus Garden, and large drive-through light experiences. Expect photo ops, music, and themed treats.
Is Las Vegas busy over Christmas? How should I plan?
It gets busy, especially the week of Christmas and New Year’s. Book hotels, shows, and popular restaurants well in advance. Consider weekday visits for lighter crowds, and purchase timed tickets for in-demand attractions when available.
What should I pack for a December visit?
Pack layers: a light sweater or jacket for daytime and a warmer coat for nights. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Bring moisturizer and lip balm (it’s dry), and warmer gear if you plan mountain or desert excursions at higher elevations.
Are there free or low-cost holiday things to do?
Plenty. The Bellagio Conservatory is free, many tree-lightings and community markets are complimentary, and strolling the Strip or Downtown to see decorations costs nothing. Some ticketed light installations also offer budget-friendly nights or bundles.