The Nutcracker (Alicia Lee / Courtesy)
Friday, Dec. 24, 2021 | 2 a.m.
This weekend is all about safely surrounding yourself with family and friends and celebrating the season, but when you need to get out of the house and entertain your Christmas group, consider these stellar Vegas events, each designed to accentuate the festivities.
THE NUTCRACKER The final performances of Nevada Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” at the Smith Center are set for 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve and 1 p.m. on Sunday. Next up for the company are two new works in February, so might as well get those tickets now, too. December 24 & 26, nevadaballet.org.
USHER He’ll be back at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace for New Year’s Eve but Usher is going the extra mile with this Christmas Eve show, one of the biggest parties on the Strip for the holiday weekend. December 24, caesars.com.
THIS IS CHRISTMAS Your last chance to catch this original holiday musical at the beautiful Palazzo Theatre has arrived. Everyone’s favorite Christmas classic tunes plus Santa and Scrooge are ready to make your season memorable with four more shows planned through Sunday. December 24-26, venetianlasvegas.com.
GOOGOOSH The legendary Iranian singer and actress returns to the Las Vegas Strip for what was previously an annual Christmas concert, this time taking the stage at the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan. The presence of this cultural icon is another strong indication of the gradual international resurgence in the Vegas entertainment scene. December 25, cosmopolitanlasvegas.com.
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER Last year was the first time in 36 years the neoclassical group was unable to tour to perform its rollicking renditions of holiday songs. The band is ready to make up for lost time with a concert stop at Orleans Arena Sunday. December 26, orleansarena.com.
