Vegas Hot List: A Tree, A Bird and a Brew
A Tree ‘Glows’ in Caesars
Absinthe, at Caesars Palace, hosted by the Gazillionaire is a must-see show that marked its eighth anniversary this year. To celebrate, the bombastic host presided over the official lighting of the “Absinthe Electric Oak” tree. The new trippy and magnificent visual arborous art installation, located in the courtyard outside the Spiegelworld tent, stands 35 feet high with 25,000 color-changing illuminating leaves and 120,000 LED sound-reactive lights. The tree lights up for all to see when the courtyard opens around 7 p.m. The best part for this tree in the desert? No watering needed. Absinthe is performed twice nightly; tickets start at $99. spiegelworld.com/absinthe
Become the Mockingjay
A new all-ages exhibition in The District at MGM Grand captures “The Hunger Games” movie series phenomenon, exploring Katniss Everdeen’s trek from her humble beginnings in District 12 to her emergence as the Mockingjay. The experience lets guests become part of the rebellion and features inspirational set pieces including the Hall of Justice, President Snow’s office, the Tribute Train, Capitol TV and District 13. The exhibit features nearly 30 original costumes and a fan-experience archery training range within a 60-foot wide interactive room. Open daily 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets (including collectible commemorative badge) are $35, $25 for ages 4-11, and free for 3 and under. thehungergamesexhibition.com
Tap Into The STRAT
Remodeling and rebranding is transforming the Stratosphere into the STRAT. It started with the opening of the new, sporty Blvd & Main Taphouse and View Lounge located next to the sports book that features a 110-foot wide, wraparound high-resolution LED screen. Steps from the resort’s main entrance, the 6,000-plus-square-foot Blvd & Main combines craft beer, including the company’s own brews, and elevated pub cuisine with comfy seating. Half that size and next door, the stylish View Lounge offers craft cocktails and small bites. The interior design honors the nearby Downtown Las Vegas Arts District with pieces commissioned by local artists. stratrising.com/#bar-restaurants
-Jackie Brett, Custom Publishing Writer