Get Ready for Spooks: El Cortez Hotel & Casino’s Ghost-Hunting Contest
As the fall season descends and Halloween approaches, the legendary El Cortez Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is unveiling an enticing opportunity for thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts alike. This iconic establishment, renowned as the oldest and possibly “most haunted” hotel in Las Vegas, is hosting a contest that allows one lucky individual to spend a weekend ghost hunting within its storied walls, all while competing for a $5,000 prize.
The Contest Details
Thrill-seekers can apply to participate in this unique ghost-hunting excursion, which promises a heart-pounding adventure steeped in the hotel’s rich history. The contest encourages curious souls to join the hunt for paranormal activity, with the experience set to immerse them in the hotel’s mysterious atmosphere. Participants are invited to investigate the various eerie corners of the El Cortez, where stories of ghostly apparitions and unsettling occurrences abound.
With a running period from October 6 through October 31, applicants will have the chance to demonstrate their courage and enthusiasm for the supernatural. The selected contestant will embark on their ghostly quest in early December, equipped with an array of ghost-hunting toolkits designed for this hair-raising adventure.
El Cortez: A Historical Overview
Nestled on Fremont Street, often dubbed “the Old Strip” or “Old Vegas,” the El Cortez first opened its doors in 1941, embodying the spirit of classic Las Vegas. The hotel and casino have witnessed an array of historical moments, including the golden age of mobsters, notorious crimes, and now, a myriad of ghost stories. Over its 84-year lifespan, the rich tapestry of events has contributed to its haunted reputation, making guests and visitors alike keenly aware of the paranormal tales that linger within its corridors.
Ghostly Encounters
The El Cortez is no stranger to whispers of the supernatural. Guests have reported strange occurrences, such as phantom footsteps echoing in the hallways and the fleeting appearance of shadowy figures, adding to the eerie charm of this vintage hotel. The contest listing encourages aspiring ghost hunters: “We’re sending you to investigate, fully equipped with ghost-hunting gear, to see if the stories are true!”
Selected participants will traverse through the hotel’s most infamous spaces, employing EMF meters, EVP recorders, and thermal sensors in their quest to encounter spirits. This eerie exploration will primarily take place at night when the atmosphere lends itself most to ghostly sightings.
Responsibilities of the Chosen Hunter
Once the selected ghost hunter checks into the El Cortez for their haunting weekend, they will embark on an extensive investigation. Their mission will be to document any unusual activity through photos, videos, and a journal detailing their most spine-chilling, humorous, or mysterious encounters. This not only enhances the excitement but also invites others to share in the experience vicariously.
The Basement Mystery
One particularly unsettling rumor surrounding the El Cortez involves its basement, alleged to contain the ashes and cremated remains of former employees who had no family to mourn them. This singular aspect adds another layer of eeriness to the ghost-hunting adventure, serving as a stark reminder of the hotel’s storied past.
The Vegas Experience
In addition to the chilling quest, the $5,000 prize provides an excellent incentive, especially considering the current trends in Las Vegas pricing. Visitors have voiced their astonishment at the steep costs associated with everything from food to drinks within the city, making the financial reward even more appealing.
Katherine from College Station, Texas, recounted her shock over the price of everyday items, expressing disbelief at a $14 latte and a $12 lemonade. Her daughter, Cammie, echoed her sentiments, highlighting the inflated costs of water bottles during their visit. Thus, the contest not only promises an extraordinary experience but also offers a substantial reward amidst the rising costs of exploration in Las Vegas.
The El Cortez Hotel & Casino is crafting a thrilling experience for those brave enough to step into the realm of the unknown, blending history and thrill in a unique ghost-hunting contest. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal investigator or a curious newcomer, this is an opportunity that will surely spark excitement and perhaps a few chills.