Event Guide: Fourth of July weekend in Las Vegas

By Allison Duck

Thursday, June 30, 2011 | 6 a.m.

Although the Electric Daisy Carnival started the fireworks a little early last weekend, the main event is yet to come. This Fourth of July weekend, expect all of the usual amazing DJ lineups, concerts, comedians and fireworks on and off The Strip, plus the added excitement of UFC 132 and its requisite fighter after-parties.

Additionally, several attractions are offering holiday discounts. The Mob Experience at Tropicana is offers 2-for-1 tickets to locals with valid IDs. CSI: The Experience at MGM Grand is offering family four packs of tickets for $89. Mention “Family Four Pack” at the box office to access the special rates.

Fireworks displays:

Sunday, July 3:

• The 51s host the Colorado Springs Sky Sox, Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. The 51s celebrate a day early with the traditional post-game fireworks extravaganza.

• Caesars Palace will be shooting fireworks from atop its Roman Tower about 9:15 p.m. on Sunday.

• Las Vegas Motor Speedway brings back the annual Night of Fire featuring NASCAR-sanctioned stock car racing, a jet car burn, fireworks around 9:30 p.m. and an appearance by Robosaurus, the fire-breathing, car-crushing robotic dinosaur.

• The Village at Lake Las Vegas celebrates with a 13-minute fireworks show off the lakeside barge Sunday.

• Primm Valley Casino Resorts sets off fireworks at 9:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Monday, July 4:

• On Monday, enjoy a fireworks display at Mandalay Bay Beach at the Mystic Roots concert. The show starts at 9 p.m.

• The Las Vegas Hilton hosts an invitation-only viewing party at its pool, but the show can be seen from other areas on the property, including the sports book entrance.

• Station Casinos will have fireworks at five of its properties on Monday. The locations are Green Valley Ranch, Aliante Station, Red Rock Resort, Fiesta Rancho and Texas Station, and the fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

• For the second consecutive year, the City of Henderson hosts its Independence Day Celebration at the Basic High School football field from 6 to 9 p.m. The free event feature live entertainment and an 18-minute fireworks show beginning at 9 p.m.

Weekend events and specials:

Friday, July 1:

Tuff-N-Uff: Browning vs. Postma: The future stars of MMA return to Cox Pavilion as Tuff-N-Uff looks to crown five new champions. Tuff-N-Uff: Browning vs. Postma features the debut of the Randy Couture Tuff-N-Uff Heavyweight Title, as well as the four other championship bouts. The night’s main event pits Team Tompkins’ Brandon Browning against One Kick Nick-trained Carl Postma for the heavyweight belt. UFC Hall of Famer Couture is expected to be on hand to award the belt.

Red, White and Booze Blues: Celebrate Red, White and Booze Blues with cocktails available at Aria’s bars. Celebrate America’s birthday with an Old Glory Sweet Tea, a Freedom Sparkler, an Independence Caipirinha and the Stars and Stripes Mojito. The specials are available at City Bar, Carta Privada, The Deuce Lounge and Aria’s guest pool. The specials are available 24/7 from Friday through Monday.

A-Trak at XS: XS kicks off Fourth of July Weekend with music from Montreal-born electro house DJ A-Trak and DJ Pizzo.

Nike Factory Store Grand Reopening: The Nike Factory Store at Las Vegas Premium Outlets-South is undergoing renovations. The newly remodeled store opens July 1 at 10 a.m. with grand reopening events scheduled through July 4. As part of the celebration, the first 200 shoppers each day receive a free gift and have a chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree.

Patriotic Patio Party: PBR Rock Bar & Grill hosts a Patriotic Patio Party from Thursday through Monday. Enjoy barbecue fare, drinks and bull-riding specials. Specials include $5 Washington Apple shooters, $1 bull rides, a DJ, beer tubs and red, white and blue daiquiris.

July First Friday: Join local artists and musicians in downtown Las Vegas for the July First Friday, where galleries are open in the evening to peruse local masterpieces and mingle with the artists. This First Friday, head down to Blackbird Studios to check out the Tattoo Etiquette 101 exhibit featuring a dual collection of artworks from Juan Muniz and Bumper -- a clash between the good and bad of the modern-day tattoo lifestyle.

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals at Red Rock: The Pool at Red Rock presents Grace Potter & The Nocturnals. The Vermont-based band has been performing together for a decade, and their single “Paris” is currently climbing the charts.

Ralphie May: Comedian Ralphie May is large and in charge and ready to make you laugh at the South Point Showroom. The veteran of Last Comic Standing will have you in stitches with his ode to Chic-Fil-a and what it was like to swim in Saddam Hussein’s pool.

Jump Smokers: Hard Rock Cafe on The Strip presents Jump Smokers. The Chicago-based group has earned the nickname “Kings of the Dance Floor” for remixes of songs like Mariah Carey’s “Obsessed,” Beyonce’s “Why Don’t You Love Me” and Jason Derulo’s “Ridin’ Solo.” DJs M!keAttack and Teen Wolf joins them.

EC Twins at Marquee Dayclub: The EC Twins, yes, that stands for Eye Candy, spin at Marquee Dayclub at the Cosmopolitan. Catch them later in the evening at Lavo at the Palazzo.

Carlos Mencia at Treasure Island: Comedian Carlos Mencia, the equal opportunity offender, brings his insightful humor to Treasure Island for a one-night performance.

Gareth Emery at Marquee: English trance DJ Gareth Emery headlines at Marquee Nightclub along with resident DJ and producer Blake Jarrell.

Nick Lachey at Tao and Tao Beach: It’s going to get way hotter than 98 degrees this weekend at Tao as singer and TV personality Nick Lachey hosts at Tao on Friday night and then heads to Tao Beach on Saturday.

Along Came a Spider: Tryst presents Along Came a Spider with hip-hop-loving DJ Spider. Arachnophobes need not worry: He’s not really a spider.

Perez Hilton at The Bank: Gossip blogger extraordinaire Perez Hilton hosts a Fourth of July weekend kickoff party at The Bank. Be on your best behavior, or you might be the subject of his posts!

Danjazone at Rain: Get on the highway to the Danjazone this weekend and catch the artist spinning at Clash Wednesdays along with resident DJ Dave Fogg.

Joe Rogan: He’s not just a UFC announcer. Joe Rogan got his start in stand-up, and he’ll be showing off his skills at Mandalay Bay Theater.

Mix Master Mike at Club Nikki: Mix Master Mike, DJ for The Beastie Boys, spins at Club Nikki. Chances are you won't have to “Fight for Your Right to Party” at the Tropicana hotspot.

Dev’s birthday party at Jet: It’s time to make your “Booty Bounce” with the “Bass Down Low” as singer Dev performs at her birthday celebration at Jet along with DJ Ikon.

Yara Sofia at Krave: From RuPaul’s Drag Race, Yara Sofia performs at Krave along with Top 40 hits from DJ Silence. For the first time, Krave is offering a three-day pass, which includes free drinks each night, for $100.

Hawaiian Tropic Model Search: Wet Republic takes a break from the Hot 100 contest this week to host a Hawaiian Tropic Model Search.

Sidney Samson at Surrender: Aoki’s House welcomes Sidney Samson’s exclusive DJ residency at Surrender Nightclub at Encore.

Yelawolf at Gallery: The rapper is a member of the Shady Records crew and has been featured on tracks with Big Boi and Paul Wall. Catch him Sunday night at Chateau.

DJ Khaled at Chateau and Gallery: Producer and radio personality DJ Khaled has become one of the most desirable collaborators for hip-hop stars with his hit singles like “All I Do Is Win,” “Put Your Hands Up” and “Fed Up.” Catch him Friday night at Chateau and Saturday night at Gallery.

DJ Scooter at Haze: The magic words are “I’m With the DJ” at the party at Haze, where DJ Scooter, one half of the duo Scooter and Lavelle, spins.

Recess Fridays: Don’t leave home without your underwear, but in case you do, Recess Fridays at Encore Beach Club has you covered. French intimates brand Pull-In hosts and gives away underwear.

Ditch Fridays at Palms Pool: Even if you’re off Monday, there’s no reason not to Ditch Fridays and hit the Palms Pool & Bungalows for some tunes from Lisa Pittman and DJ M!keAttack.

Thiago Alves at Blush: UFC fighter and Muay Thai specialist Thiago Alves presents a fight weekend kick-off party at Blush.

Saturday July 2:

Xyience fighter autograph signing: Xyience, the maker of Xenergy, the official energy drink of the UFC, invites MMA fans to meet Xyience team athletes Mark Munoz and Anthony Pettis. Munoz and Pettis will be signing autographs at Bluegreen Resorts.

Cash drop at Krave: Back by popular demand, DJ Irene spins at Krave, where guests can enjoy a cash balloon drop and aerial fly boys.

T-Pain at Wet Republic: Wet Republic welcomes T-Pain, who will spin poolside and introduce his new product the "I Am T-Pain" microphone, which gives people the "T-Pain effect," modifying voices to mimic the musician's signature style.

UFC 132 at MGM Grand Garden Arena: Bantamweight champ Dominick Cruz defends his title against the only man to defeat him, former featherweight titleholder Urijah Faber. Also on the card, Wanderlei Silva takes on Chris Leben, and former UFC light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz takes on Ryan Bader.

Ryan Bader hosts at Chateau: Ryan Bader hosts his official after-fight party at Chateau.

Shawn Marion hosts at Lavo: Dallas Mavericks forward Shawn Marion celebrates his team’s championship with a party at Lavo.

Chris Landry at Rok Vegas: Guns ’N Roses tour DJ Chris Landry spins at Rok Vegas at New York-New York.

Urijah Faber’s after-fight party: Urijah Faber hosts his after-fight party at The Playboy Club presented by Form Athletics and MMA Inc.

Luciana at Revolution: English singer/songwriter Luciana hosts and performs at Revolution Lounge.

Springs Preserve’s Red, White & Tunes: Celebrate with patriotic music and tasty treats as the Springs Preserve hosts the family-friendly Red, White & Tunes event featuring music by the UNLV Community Band and other entertainers. Snow cones, hot dogs and other summertime goodies will be available for purchase.

Tiesto at The Joint: Fresh off an amazing showing at last weekend’s Electric Daisy Carnival, Dutch musician and DJ Tiesto returns to The Joint at the Hard Rock for his yearlong residency.

Erick Morillo at Marquee: The Colombian American DJ and producer known for spending holiday weekends in Las Vegas returns to Marquee for his Subliminal Sessions.

Lil Jon and Calvin Harris at Surrender: Rapper and Celebrity Apprentice cast member Lil Jon performs at the Encore hotspot along with Scottish musician and DJ Calvin Harris.

Richard Vission: Liquid Pool at Aria presents Canadian house music producer and DJ Richard Vission.

Wyclef at Haze: Haze welcomes hip-hop star Wyclef for an appearance with resident DJ David Christian.

Rob Kardashian at Jet: Rob Kardashian celebrates at Jet. The Keeping Up With the Kardashians star has been getting into trouble on the latest season, but hopefully he’s on his best behavior for his hosting gig.

DJ Shift at Vanity: DJ Shift, who specialized in 1980s rock, hip-hop, mash-ups and electro house, spins at the Hard Rock Hotel’s nightclub.

Sasha Grey at Moon: Adult film star and actress Sasha Grey is working on adding DJ to her resume. She hosts at Moon, and if her past appearances in town are any indication, she might take over the DJ booth at some point.

Avicii at Tao: Tao presents Swedish producer and DJ sensation Avicii. Though he’s barely old enough to hang out in the clubs, he already has a number of hit singles under his belt, including “My Feelings for You,” “Street Dancer” and “Tweet It.”

Paul Oakenfold at Perfecto: The driving force behind Perfecto headlines along with resident DJ Zen Freeman at Rain.

Gretchen Rossi at Liquid: The Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi hosts at Liquid. Always bikini ready, the reality TV star and handbag designer might even bring her beau Slade to the party.

Dominick Cruz hosts at Studio 54: UFC fighter Dominick Cruz hosts his after-party at Studio 54.

Holly Madison at Go Pool: Holly Madison of Planet Hollywood’s Peepshow and E!'s Holly's World hosts at Go Pool at the Flamingo.

Scott Disick at Chateau: Keeping Up With the Kardashians star Scott Disick hosts at Chateau. His girlfriend and her famous family might join him -- you never know.

Big Dee and Ross One at Tryst: Tryst at the Wynn presents local favorite Big Dee and S.K.A.M. artist DJ Ross One.

Wanderlei Silva at Tabu: Whether Chris “The Crippler” Leben cripples him or not, middleweight fighter Wanderlei Silva hosts his after-party at Tabu Ultra Lounge.

B.o.B. at Pure: Hip-hop star B.o.B. will perform his hits “Nothing on You,” “Magic” and “Airplanes” at the Caesars nightclub.

Red, White and Azure: Palazzo’s luxury pool puts on a BBQ on Saturday and Sunday starting at $15. Enjoy summer treats and music from DJs Twisted on Saturday and SINatra on Sunday.

Tito Ortiz at Gallery: UFC fighter Tito Ortiz hosts his after-party at Gallery Nightclub.

Bill Maher at the Orleans: Bill Maher has worn many hats as a stand-up comedian, TV host, social and political commentator and author. He’s performing at the Orleans Showroom.

Ted Nugent at Sunset Station: Detroit-born musician Ted Nugent has run the gamut of entertainment jobs as a singer, guitarist, solo artist and a reality TV star. Capture the “Spirit of the Wild” at his Sunset Station gig.

Gary Busey’s birthday: Blush presents Gary Busey’s birthday celebration. The Academy Award-nominated actor recently appeared on Celebrity Apprentice.

Rihanna at Mandalay Bay: Rihanna will be performing her hits like “S&M,” “What’s My Name,” “Umbrella” and “Disturbia” in her Loud Tour stop at Mandalay also featuring B.o.B.

Rihanna at Club Nikki: Like fellow pop star Britney Spears did last week, Rihanna is heading to Club Nikki at Tropicana for her official "LOUD" tour concert after party.

Colin Hay at Fremont Street Experience: Men at Work’s Colin Hay performs a free concert at Fremont Street Experience.

Face to Face at the HOB: Face to Face rocks the House of Blues with their high-energy stage show. The California punk rockers are bringing Strung Out and Blitzkid on tour with them.

Lonestar in Primm: Vocal Group of the Year winner Lonestar will be performing their hits, including “Amazed,” “I’m Already There,” and “My Front Porch Looking In,” at Star of the Desert Arena in Primm.

Tribal Seeds at the Silverton: Reggae roots rockers Tribal Seeds perform at Silverton’s Sway Pool & Lounge along with For Twenty Daze.

Busta Rhymes at Hard Rock Cafe on the Strip: The Brooklyn-born rapper of Jamaican descent first broke onto the scene with “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” and has had success in music and acting.

Sunday July 3:

NKOTBSB: It’s the ultimate boy band concert! New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys perform together at Mandalay Bay Events Center.

New Kids on the Block Official Afterparty at Chateau: Catch the 1980s pop sensation at their official after-party, where they’ll show you that they still have “The Right Stuff.”

Lake Las Vegas Cruise: Celebrate the star-spangled holiday with a yacht cruise aboard La Contessa, and enjoy a colorful fireworks show over the water. Tickets are $30 per person. For an additional $10, a basket of sweets can be purchased to enjoy on board, and drinks are available for purchase.

Florentine Garden Dinner at Ravella: Enjoy a buffet-style dinner under the stars in Ravella’s Florentine Garden. Dinner options include dishes like heirloom tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze, charbroiled rib eye with chili oregano rub and tarragon baked barramundi. Tickets are $45 for adults and $15 for children ages 6 to 12.

Scott Disick at Chateau:

Keeping Up with the Kardashians reality star Scott Disick will host at Chateau. Who knows- his girlfriend and her famous family might show up to join him.

Wicked Reunion at Ghostbar: DJ Garth may have given the world “Twenty Minutes of Disco Glory” in 1998, but he’ll celebrate 20 years of disco glory this Sunday, as he joins DJs Jeno and Thomas Bullock to commemorate two decades of the Wicked Sound System. House DJ Frank Richards joins the group as they spin at Ghostbar.

Fatboy Slim at Marquee: Last time he tried to perform at Marquee Dayclub, Fatboy Slim experienced a little stormy weather. He returns along with fellow English DJ Funkagenda.

Foam Party at Krave: Welcoming ages 18 and up, Krave’s foam party is back with Oh My Josh performing as he celebrates his newest CD.

Marc Broussard at the Hard Rock Cafe on The Strip: Singer/songwriter Marc Broussard, known for his Bayou Soul sound and tracks like “Here You Are” and “Home,” performs with Matt Hires and Chic Gamine.

Laughter Hours Comedy Show: Anton Knight, Booya and Mike Krasner are at Laughter Hours. The show is hosted by B.S. Williams at the Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay.

Sunday Scene with Sasha Grey: Palms Place Hotel and Spa presents the Sunday Scene. This week features a DJ set by Sasha Grey, along with resident DJs Zen Freeman and Mark Stylz.

DJ Dan at Liquid: Electronic house music DJ and producer DJ Dan, known for his remixes of The Pussycat Dolls, Lady Gaga and P Diddy, spins at Liquid.

The Anti-Social Network at The Pearl: A heavyweight night of comedy, The Anti-Social Network featuring host Jim Norton and comedians Dave Attell, Jim Breuer and Bill Burr, makes a stop at The Pearl at the Palms.

Vegas vs. Cali Beat Battle: The Road to the 2011 Las Vegas Beat Battle Championships continues Independence Day weekend at Daddy Mac's. Some of the hottest producers from California and Las Vegas battle for a $200 cash prize, as well as a spot in the December championships. The event is hosted by Fatz, Paria, DJ Kelly J and Model Candy, with special guests including Hack the Mack, Rideout, Shamroc, T.R@bb, Branden Lace, Kid Doms, K.O.N, DTR and Clue the Nemesis. For tickets and guest list info, call or text (702) 493-4463.

DJ Cobra and Mr. Best: DJ Cobra, better known as the “Iller,” spins at Bare along with Mr. Best.

Adler’s Appetite at Diablo’s: Adler's Appetite, featuring Guns ’N Roses drummer Steven Adler, performs at Diablo's at Monte Carlo.

Salute to Freedom Concert at Sunset Station: Country stars Mark Willis and Mark Chesnutt perform at the free Salute to Freedom Concert.

Paul Van Dyk at Haze: Berlin-based DJ and producer Paul Van Dyk spins his blend of techno, trance and electronica at Haze.

Kaskade at Encore Beach Club: The superstar DJ sailed through the dayclub’s opening season as its first official resident. Now he’s back for another summer under the sun.

Markus Schulz at Tao Beach: German-born Markus Schulz, known for his compilation album Las Vegas ’10, might be testing out some tracks at Tao Beach for a follow-up disc.

Natasha Bedingfield at House of Blues: Freschetta presents pop star Natasha Bedingfield at House of Blues along with Kate Voegele and Andy Grammer.

All-American Girl Pageant : On the eve of the Fourth of July, The Bank searches for the most beautiful All-American Girl in Vegas, offering up $5,000 in prize money.

Night Swim at XS: Manufactured Superstars headlines at the nighttime pool party, along with Warren Peace. Pool attire is encouraged.

Monday, July 4:

Chateau Beer Garden party: Chateau Beer Garden at the Paris hosts an all-American party with hot dogs, hamburgers and other traditional barbecue fare. The nightclub’s outdoor terrace opens its doors at 11 a.m. for food and music, and patrons can enjoy half-off draft beer specials.

Scooter and Lavelle at Relax Mondays: DJ duo Scooter and Lavelle spin at Hard Rock Hotel’s pool for Relax Mondays.

Afrojack with Steve Aoki: XS presents Grammy-Award winning Dutch music producer and DJ Afrojack along with Steve Aoki, plus an opening set by Rehab. Afrojack is at Encore Beach Club during the day.

Hottest patriot contest: Jet celebrates with a search for the hottest patriotic lady. DJ Hollywood spins, and the sexiest patriot wins $5,000.

Donald Glaude at Bare: House music specialist, and remixer DJ Donald Glaude celebrates at Bare.

Mike Remedy at Tao Beach: Tao Beach hosts local DJ Mike Remedy’s birthday bash featuring sets by the birthday boy along with Jordan Stevens and Scotty Boy.