MGM Resorts Turns the Strip Into a Holiday Wonderland

Mandalay Bay – Santa in the Shipwreck at Shark Reef Aquarium

Credit: Bryan Steffy

One of Vegas’ most unique holiday traditions returns Dec. 20–24, bringing Santa underwater for daily dives inside the Shark Reef shipwreck exhibit. Kids 12 and under get a free photo with Santa during the day with paid admission. Plus, “Santa Jaws” — his toothy, slightly mischievous assistant — swims by every hour for photos and meet-and-greets. With more than 2,000 sea creatures and the Undersea Explorer VR Theater, it’s a perfect family stop.

Swingers Las Vegas – Holiday Cocktails on the Course

Inside Mandalay Bay, Swingers, the wildly fun crazy golf club, is pouring three seasonal drinks that fit right in with the venue’s neon-meets-nostalgia vibe.

• The Fireside Old Fashioned: A cozy, maple-and-spice twist on the classic.

• The Sleigh Bell: A bright, citrusy holiday refresher.

• White Christmas: A spirit-free blend with ginger, coconut, and nutmeg for guests skipping the booze without skipping the fun.
  Perfect for warming up before hitting the greens — or recovering after a terrible putt.

The Cosmopolitan – Steamroll into Holiday Nights at The Chandelier

Over at The Chelsea, the legendary Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Tour hits the stage on Nov. 15, celebrating 40 years as the longest-running holiday concert tour in entertainment.

The Chandelier’s middle level becomes a dazzling winter escape with “’Tis the Season”, running Nov. 28–Dec. 31. Expect themed cocktails, shimmering décor, DJ nights on Fridays, live performers on Saturdays, and a special Monday mixology series featuring top Arts District bars. Read all about it here.