Posted on: December 30, 2025, 09:11h.
Last updated on: December 30, 2025, 09:11h.
- Las Vegas is expecting 345,000 visitors for the New Year’s holiday
- The Strip will once again light up at midnight for an eight-minute fireworks showcase
Las Vegas tourism officials are looking to the new year with hope, eager to shift the narrative in 2026 after the decline in visitation experienced throughout 2025. Although this New Year’s holiday hints at a subdued atmosphere, Las Vegas remains a beacon of celebration and entertainment for visitors.
Current statistics reveal a 7.6% drop in visitor numbers compared to the previous year, with approximately 32.31 million guests visiting through October of 2025. This figure indicates a decline of about 2.64 million individuals compared to 2024.
Despite hopes for a resurgence in 2026, the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA) projects that this year’s New Year’s festivities will attract approximately 345,000 visitors—a slight 1.15% decrease from last year, equating to roughly 4,000 fewer attendees.
For some context, Las Vegas welcomed 347,000 visitors for New Year’s 2024, 336,000 for NYE 2023, and 309,000 for NYE 2022, showcasing a gradual increase prior to the recent downturn.
Las Vegas Hotel Rates High
As occupancy rates surge due to high demand, hotel prices during this New Year’s week are reflecting the market dynamics. The recent closure of Tropicana and Mirage has removed over 4,500 rooms from availability, limiting options for travelers and increasing prices across the board.
Occupancy is expected to hover around an impressive 95% in casino hotels, although predictions of inclement weather could slightly dampen numbers.
AccuWeather is forecasting a high of only 56 degrees Fahrenheit on New Year’s Eve, with possible afternoon showers. Looking ahead, New Year’s Day is expected to remain gloomy, with showers likely and a high of only 52 degrees. There is a substantial 91% chance of rain on January 1, 2026.
Even amidst cooler temperatures, hotel prices remain sky-high. A night at Fontainebleau on December 31 is priced at $846, while Vdara goes for $775. Conrad at Resorts World will set guests back $929, and The Venetian is at $751. The luxurious Wynn and Encore are priced at $1,075, while the almost sold-out Cosmopolitan hits $1,812, with Caesars Palace at $938.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, MGM Grand is available at $490, Park MGM at $450, Rio at $349, New York-New York at $461, Sahara at $429, and Planet Hollywood for $534.
Las Vegas Fireworks
As the clock strikes midnight, the Las Vegas Strip will transform into a dazzling display of fireworks—among the best in the nation. Known as “America’s Party,” this annual event attracts locals and tourists alike to celebrate in spectacular fashion.
This year, fireworks will illuminate the sky from rooftops of prominent casinos including Aria, Caesars Palace, Fontainebleau, MGM Grand, Planet Hollywood, Resorts World, The Strat, Treasure Island, The Venetian, and, for the first time, the Palms will expand the celebration off the Strip. Additionally, The Plaza will provide a fireworks show for downtown attendees.
The eight-minute coordinated show promises to “epically” light up the night, marking the transition into 2026 with an unforgettable spectacle that embodies the spirit of Las Vegas.