When to go to Las Vegas

Though there's no off-season in Las Vegas, it's slightly quieter (and cheaper) between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and during the heat of high summer. Public holidays are always busy. If you're planning a short visit, try to avoid busy, pricey weekends. Las Vegas is the convention capital of the US, which means that some larger resorts are often used for trade fairs and the like.

The LVCA website (www.visitlasvegas.com) has a list of all the major conventions taking place in the city.

Climate

Las Vegas has blue skies and little rain all year round. In July and August, it can get absurdly hot during the day, with temperatures soaring from an average low of 77ºF (25ºC) to more than 110ºF (43ºC). Drink lots of water and wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. In winter temperatures dip considerably, ranging from 37ºF (3ºC) to a balmier 57ºF (14ºC). Winter nights can dip below freezing.

Festivals & events

Las Vegas has a habit of attracting the kind of parties that don't happen anywhere else, and the climate's benign enough for open-air celebrations, such as its very own Mardi Gras party (early April) at any time of year. It's obvious that Las Vegas, the spiritual home of gambling, should host the World Series of Poker (June and July), while a town that revels in the nickname Sin City is a natural location for the Fetish & Fantasy Hallowe'en Ball (31 October). There are many more family friendly, quirky and slightly naughty excuses to party, however, in this high-spirited town.

See all festivals & events in Las Vegas

Public holidays

New Year's Day: 1 Jan

Martin Luther King Jr Day: 3rd Mon in Jan

Presidents Day: 3rd Mon in Feb

Easter Sunday: Mar/Apr

Memorial Day: last Mon in May

Independence Day: 4 July

Labor Day: 1st Mon in Sept

Nevada Day: last Fri in Oct

Veterans' Day: 2nd Mon in Nov

Thanksgiving: 4th Thur in Nov

Christmas Day: 25 Dec

Our listings

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this guide, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors it may contain. Before you go out of your way, we strongly advise you to phone ahead and check the particulars.