Holiday Music

With its flashing lights, loud music and stimulating party scene, Vegas always has a festive vibe. But the city really steps up its game during the holidays. Here are a few good reasons to end your year in the city of sin.

Palms Casino Resort is positively laden with holiday cheer this year, with glamorous former Destiny’s Child chanteuse Kelly Rowland lighting up Rain Nightclub on Dec. 29, and Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and rapper Yelawolf teaming up for a special New Year’s Eve concert at that same venue. Over at Moon at the Palms, Questlove of The Roots and legendary Philly turntablist DJ Jazzy Jeff battle it out on the decks on Dec. 29, with Australian hip-hop belle Iggy Azalea appearing the following night and sassy singer-songwriter Wynter Gordon doing NYE honors.

At the Palazzo is Mannheim Steamroller by Chip Davis, which runs through Dec. 30. Recognized as one of the nation’s top 20 concert tours by Pollstar in 2011, Mannheim Steamroller by Chip Davis will be pulling out all the stops during its Las Vegas run, combining Christmas classics with state-of-the-art multimedia effects. Tickets start at $64.

Rock lovers are thoroughly spoiled in Vegas this season, with hometown heroes The Killers at the Cosmopolitan on Dec. 28 and 29, and L.A.’s funky juggernaut Red Hot Chili Peppers playing an intimate New Year’s Eve show at the same property.

The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino hosts über-hip indie duo The Black Keys on Dec. 30 and 31, with tickets starting at $99.

For those looking to party their way into next year, Tryst at the Wynn will be ringing in 2013 with Atlanta crunk rap pioneer Lil Jon behind the decks, while Swedish deejay sensation Eric Prydz spins at the Prince Harry-approved Surrender Nightclub (at connected sister resort Encore Las Vegas). Meanwhile, Marquee Nightclub at the Cosmopolitan will welcome veteran Italian deejay Benny Benassi for the big night.

—Paul Rogers, Custom Publishing Writer