Ty Erickson thrills the crowd with steer wrestling
GRIT AND GLAMOR LAS VEGAS-STYLE CHECK OUT OUR WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO FAN GUIDE By Brian Hurlburt
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hen Pat Christenson, president of Las Vegas Events, the promoter of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR), was asked to describe this event, he came up with fitting words that bring to life a truly special Las Vegas sporting experience. “To rodeo fans and fans of the country lifestyle, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is like Disneyland,” Christenson said. “When I went to Disneyland with my kids we couldn’t see it all in one day. It took three or four days. When you go there, you have to map out your trip. The same goes for the Wrangler NFR. “The competition at the Thomas & Mack is the best choreographed championship event in sports,” continued Christenson. “Fans can start the night at more than 40 different properties
The much-anticipated bull riding and rodeo clowns 2016 WRANGLER NFR
showing the action or watch it live. The NFR experience gives you 10 days with a plethora of options that start at nine every morning and go until you drop.” There is something for everyone during the Wrangler NFR from Dec. 1-10. Fans can watch the action live at the newly renovated Thomas & Mack and enjoy everything else that happens at the home arena. Events there include live music nightly at the Cowboy Corral, the CBS Sports Network pre-show and hospitality area inside The ‘Shoe with stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip, plus The Corral Saloon and the NFR Fan Zone. The NFR is one of Las Vegas’ most fun, exciting and interactive annual events, and you don’t have to attend the actual rodeo to feel like you are a part of the action. Several casinos offer live viewing parties on big screen TV’s, bringing together fans and creating an exciting arenalike atmosphere. Fans can also catch shows performed by superstar entertainers on and off the Strip, as all of Las Vegas goes country during the Wrangler NFR! Check out pages 54 and 55 for a list of official events and shows. For many, Cowboy Christmas and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s (RMEF) Hunter & Outdoor Expo are must-attend attractions. See page 52 for all of the details on these megaevents featuring an amazing array of western fare, food and interactive features.
Photo of Ty Erickson by Larry Smith; bull riding, Reba McEntire and Grand Entry by Tom Donoghue
Country superstar Reba McEntire performs during the Wrangler NFR
Trying to fit in everything offered during the 10 days of events is nearly impossible, but with the help of this Fan Guide, it can be a little easier. So, whether you are attending the Wrangler NFR at the Thomas & Mack Center or at a viewing party at your favorite resort, here’s what you need to know. The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, and it has been held in Las Vegas for over 30 years. The Wrangler NFR attracts the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Under the new contract with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the purse in the 2016 event will jump to $10 million. Here’s a look at the main events:
BAREBACK BRONC RIDING
For a ride to be scored, the cowboy must stay on the horse for eight seconds. Cowboys are judged on their control and spurring technique while the horse is judged on power, speed and agility. The only thing separating a cowboy from a hard fall to the dirt is a rope in his hands.
The nightly Grand Entry is a stunning and inspiring beginning to a memorable event
BULL RIDING
This is the granddaddy rodeo event of them all. Man vs. beast. Cowboy vs. conqueror. Over the years some of the most memorable showdowns in the sport have come from this event, where a cowboy straps tightly onto the back of a bull and attempts to survive for eight seconds while the 2,000-pound beast bucks and jumps wildly. This exciting event closes the show nightly.
TEAM ROPING
This is a timed event otherwise known as heading and heeling, and is the most precise event in the competition. Two mounted cowboys (a header and a heeler) work together to lasso a steer with a rope on the head and the heel. They must work cohesively to accomplish this task.
BARREL RACING
This female event is based on time. The cowgirl, mounted on a horse, comes racing out from underneath the arena and makes a series of sharp turns around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. Fast paced action, for sure, and crowd noise swells as a great ride unfolds. Check NFRexperience.com for party and event schedules plus competition times. 2016 WRANGLER NFR
More than 200,000 fans enjoy the free, annual Cowboy Christmas
CELEBRATING COWBOYS, CHRISTMAS AND MORE COWBOY CHRISTMAS AND RMEF HUNTER & OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS EXPO By Brian Hurlburt
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he popular, annual Cowboy Christmas is the original Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) gift show. This Westernthemed shopping experience is like none other with wares to please even the most avid shopper! Open December 1-10 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, this free event is conveniently held in the South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The crowd statistics for Cowboy Christmas are staggering. In 2015, a record crowd of 216,292 enjoyed a vast array of unique Western products offered by more than 400 exhibitors. Apparel, custom-made jewelry, boots and spurs, furniture, original art, handmade crafts, home goods, farm equipment and trailers are just some of the specialty products on display. Be sure to sample good ol’ western grub that melts in your mouth and creates a nice aroma throughout the show!
The popular “Outside the Barrel” show hosted by Flint Rasmussen is back from noon-1 p.m. daily. That will be followed from 1:15-2 p.m. by “Keepin’ It Country” with singer Daryle Singletary, a new interactive, all-acoustic show featuring Singletary and a rotating cast of guest country music artists. 2016 WRANGLER NFR
The inaugural Junior NFR presented by YETI will take place in the 1,200-seat Wrangler Rodeo Arena, one of the six main interactive features of Cowboy Christmas. Youngsters from the ages of 8 to 19 will be competing in eight events that include mini bareback, mini bucking bulls, barrel racing, total team roping, tie-down roping and girls breakaway. Accessing all of the Cowboy Christmas fun is easier than ever. Complimentary round-trip shuttles from eight hotels – Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Golden Nugget, The Mirage, Monte Carlo, Orleans, South Point and Treasure Island – will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Shuttles to the Thomas & Mack Center for rodeo ticket holders will also be available. Repeat attendees to the show will notice wider aisles and other improvements to enhance the overall experience. For more information visit NFRexperience.com.
Photos courtesy of Las Vegas Events
For the second consecutive year, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s (RMEF) Hunter & Outdoor Christmas Expo will run simultaneously with Cowboy Christmas in the Las Vegas Convention Center South Halls. Last year, the expo drew 87,000 outdoor enthusiasts, and upgrades this year include more hands-on exhibits, such as a live archery range.
More than 400 exhibitors are featured on the Cowboy Christmas show floor
SOUTH POINT DANCE HALL FREE ENTERTAINMENT
SIERRA BLACK
November 30 10:00pm Dec. 5-6 After Buckle Presentation
AARON WATSON
CODY JOHNSON
After Buckle Presentation
After Buckle Presentation
December 1-4
December 7-10
Live Entertainment Free Nitely In The HOME OF MONTANA SILVERSMITHS GO-ROUND BUCKLE PRESENTATION HOSTED BY
FLINT RASMUSSEN & RANDY CORLEY 11PM NITELY
NFR “Live” FREE Every Night On Closed Circuit TV FREE Ram Truck Viewing Party Nitely In The
Grand Ballroom
Park Here FREE And Take The FREE Shuttle To The Thomas & Mack “Come visit us at Cowboy Christmas. We have moved to Booth 1531”
Michael Gaughan’s
SouthPointCasino.com
The popular Go Round Buckle Presentations in the South Point Showroom
LAS VEGAS GOES COUNTRY CAN’T MISS COUNTRY ACTS DURING THE WRANGLER NFR By H. Wadowski and Brian Hurlburt
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very December, some of the biggest names in country entertainment come to Las Vegas during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. This year will be no different, with a variety of country acts scheduled to perform at properties on the Strip and near the Thomas & Mack Center throughout the 10-day event.
OFFICIAL WRANGLER NFR EVENTS You can pretty much throw a lasso in any direction and rope yourself a good time by attending any of the official Wrangler NFR events listed on these pages. Wrangler NFR Countdown Show at MGM Grand December 1 – 10 • 6 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. David Copperfield Theater Free Admission
For those who want to laugh uncontrollably, several of stand-up comedy’s top country comedians will also be doing shows. Bill Engvall will be at Treasure Island on Dec. 2 (treasureisland.com); Ron White will be at The Mirage on Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10 (mirage.com); and Rodney Carrington will be at the David Copperfield Theater inside MGM Grand Dec. 1 through 10 (mgmgrand.com). Of course, the Entertainment Capital of the World has a couple of resident country-themed productions rodeo fans will enjoy as well. “Country Superstars” at Hooters Casino Hotel (hooterscasinohotel.com) features a rotating cast 2016 WRANGLER NFR
Tim McGraw to perform inside MGM Grand Garden Arena
Photo of Go Round Buckle Presentations courtesy of LV Events; Tim McGraw courtesy of MGM Resorts International
ENTERTAINMENT ON AND OFF-STRIP One of this year’s hottest tickets is country music superstar Tim McGraw, who will be singing some of his greatest hits inside MGM Grand Garden Arena on Dec. 10 (mgmgrand.com). Country favorites George Strait and Gary Allan will be in town to entertain rodeo fans, too, with Strait performing at T-Mobile Arena (t-mobilearena. com) on Dec. 2 and 3 and Allan performing inside The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Dec. 9 and 10 (hardrockhotel.com). The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will be welcoming several country music stars, including Alabama on Dec. 2 and 3, Chase Rice on Dec. 5, Lady Antebellum on Dec. 7, Dwight Yoakam on Dec. 8 and Justin Moore on Dec. 9, as part of its inaugural Boots on the Boulevard concert series at The Chelsea (cosmopolitanlasvegas.com).
of impersonators sure to have even the biggest country music fan doing a double take as they sing some of the featured artists’ greatest hits. From Garth Brooks to Willie Nelson, audiences never know whom they’ll see onstage. The topless revue “X Country” at Harrah’s Las Vegas (harrahslasvegas.com) will definitely have hearts racing as audiences watch the sultry dancers perform to such popular country songs as Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush.” One of the Strip’s sexiest shows, this production has everything from seductive pole dancing and aerial numbers to a little bit of comedy!
Gary Allan will perform two shows at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Photo of Gary Allan courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas; “National Finals Tonight Show” by John Shooter
South Point Presents Ram Rodeo Tailgate Party December 1 – 10 • 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. South Point Convention Center Free admission The Mirage Presents Rodeo Vegas 2016 December 1– 10 • 6:30 p.m. – 4 a.m. Official Wrangler NFR After-Party of the PRCA Free concerts nightly The Mirage Race & Sports Book Free Admission Mirage.com/NFR MGM Grand Gold Buckle Zone December 1 – 10 • 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. MGM Grand Conference Center Live entertainment featuring free concerts nightly Free Admission mgmgrand.com/NFR The Legendary Buck’N Ball December 1 - 10 • 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. The Orleans Hotel and Casino Mardi Gras Ballroom Live country music, two-step dancing & drink specials Free Admission BoydEvents.com/WNFR “National Finals Tonight Show” hosted by Don Gay, Joe Beaver & Dan Miller December 1 – 10 • 10:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. The Orleans Showroom Re-cap the NFR with the best crew in town and win prizes nightly Free Admission BoydEvents.com/WNFR
“National Finals Tonight Show” at The Orleans
Wrangler NFR Go Round Buckle Presentations hosted by Flint Rasmussen & Randy Corley December 1 – 9 • 11 p.m. South Point Showroom Free Admission Free concerts to follow each night in the South Point Showroom: Aaron Watson (Dec. 1-4), Sierra Black (Dec. 5-6) and Cody Johnson (Dec. 7-10) SINGLE NIGHT EVENTS Hall of Fame Gala Presented by Montana Silversmiths November 29 • 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. MGM Grand Convention Center Dinner Ticket Required missrodeoamerica.com PRCA Annual Awards Banquet November 30 • 6:30 p.m. South Point Grand Ballroom Ticket required and available through the PRCA prorodeo.com Wrangler NFR Kickoff Party November 30 • 10 p.m. – midnight South Point Showroom Free Admission Featuring a concert by Sierra Black Many of the events are free and all are open to the public. For details and more information, visit NFRexperience.com. 2016 WRANGLER NFR
YOUR KIND OF PLACE
Located on the second floor promenade near the monorail.
The newly renovated dining room at Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill
A FAN’S KIND OF PLACE
NFR ENTHUSIASTS ARE SURE TO FALL FOR TOBY KEITH’S I LOVE THIS BAR & GRILL By Heather Turk
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Photos courtesy of Caesars Entertainment
staple of the Las Vegas Strip for the past decade, the recently renovated Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill at Harrah’s Las Vegas has long been a favorite with country music fans thanks to its savory Southern fare and country-themed entertainment. Guests can watch country music videos on a giant video screen and check out the Toby Keith memorabilia on the walls while feasting upon an extensive menu of down-home Southern favorites, like the World Famous Fried Bologna Sandwich made with onions, American cheese, Miracle Whip and Texas toast. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill also boasts some of the tastiest barbecue on the Strip, such as the BBQ Rib & Shrimp Combo—a half rack of tender, house-smoked St. Louis ribs basted with Keith’s world-famous BBQ sauce and four beer-battered jumbo shrimp—and the succulent BBQ Half Rotisserie Chicken seasoned with Keith’s own blend of herbs and spices. Other menu must-tries include the flavorful Blue ’N’ Blackened Burger, a Cajunspiced beef patty topped with lettuce, tomato, fried onions and blue cheese sauce served on an onion bun, and the delicious Southern Fried Twinkies served with whipped cream and strawberry sauce. Visitors can wet their whistle with a variety of signature drinks, like the Wild Shot Sunrise made with Keith’s own Wild Shot Mezcal, bitters, ginger ale and lemon. Each cocktail comes in a keepsake mason jar that guests can take home with them for a nominal fee. At night, patrons can enjoy free live country music starting at 9 p.m., with many of the acts handpicked by the “Red Solo Cup” singer
The Blue ’N’ Blackened Burger
himself. In addition to a new dance floor, the restaurant installed a top-of-the-line sound and lighting system in August so guests can twostep better now than ever before. During the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, singer Chris Shrader will perform Dec. 1 through 6 and the Tony Marques Band will perform Dec. 7 through 13. Who knows, maybe Keith will pop in for a surprise set! Food and drink specials featuring Jack Daniel’s, Miller and Coors will be available, too. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 a.m. For more information, visit caesars. com/harrahs-las-vegas/restaurants/toby-keiths-ilove-this-bar-and-grill. 2016 WRANGLER NFR
Ronnie Dunn, Reba and Kix Brooks performing their hit residency, “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together In Las Vegas”
“ REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: TOGETHER IN LAS VEGAS ” RETURNS
JUST IN TIME FOR THE WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO By Heather Turk
One of the Entertainment Capital of the World’s most unique productions, this star-studded residency features two of country music’s hottest acts sharing the stage for one unforgettable show. Now in its second year at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Las Vegas” returns for six can’t-miss performances Nov. 30 and Dec. 2, 3, 7, 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. The show features more than 30 of the country superstars’ greatest hits, including Reba’s “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” and Brooks & Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” Backed by a band comprised of 10 members from both acts’ touring bands, Reba and Brooks & Dunn perform together and separately throughout the 90-minute production. While hearing Reba and Brooks & Dunn perform such hit songs as Brooks & Dunn’s “Play Something Country” and Reba’s “Why Haven’t I Heard from You” together is obviously a treat for fans, seeing the chemistry these three longtime friends have onstage is worth the ticket price alone. Fans will hear some great stories throughout the show, like when Ronnie Dunn recalls the time his youngest daughter wanted a horse and Reba called him in the middle of the 2016 WRANGLER NFR
night to say if he didn’t buy her one, she would and send him the bill, before singing “Cowgirls Don’t Cry.” There are a couple of poignant moments throughout the production, too, like when Reba performs the song she played at her father’s funeral, “Just Like Them Horses,” as the music video filmed on the McEntire family ranch, featuring Reba’s mom, plays on a giant screen behind her, or when Reba and Brooks & Dunn are joined onstage by members of the military during the show’s patriotic finale, “Only in America.” Not to forget fans of her classic TV show, Reba sings the theme song from “Reba,” “I’m a Survivor,” at one point during the production. Tickets to see “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Las Vegas” range from $59.50 to $205, plus applicable fees. The show consistently sells out, so be sure to reserve your seats as soon as possible. Visit thecolosseum.com for more information.
Kix Brooks, Reba and Ronnie Dunn onstage
Photo of “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Las Vegas” by Russ Harrington; Kix Brooks, Reba and Ronnie Dunn on stage by Justin McIntosh
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here may be no shortage of popular country acts coming to Las Vegas to perform during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, but there’s no show in town that will entertain rodeo fans more than “REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Las Vegas.”
DECEMBER 8-10 EACH DAY STARTING AT 2:00PM TICKETS STARTING AT $ 30
CONTESTANTS WILL INCLUDE PAST, CURRENT AND FUTURE RODEO CHAMPIONS COMPETING IN YOUR FAVORITE EVENTS ROOM & TICKET PACKAGES FOR BOTH NFR & CHUTE-OUT ARE AVAILABLE NOW AT BOYDGAMINGEVENTS.COM
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• Exclusive rodeo videos • Info on your favorite events • Instant rodeo news and more! SM
Big time rodeo stars will be in action at the CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out
THE CINCH BOYD GAMING CHUTE-OUT
HOME TO POWERHOUSE RODEO PERFORMANCES! By Brian Hurlburt
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he CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out, Dec. 8-10, is one of rodeo’s latest and greatest new events. This rodeo takes place during rodeo week in Las Vegas, and there is plenty on the line, from big cash—a $200,000 purse—to bragging rights for rodeo legends and those looking to make a name for themselves. The amazing Orleans Arena will be home to past, present and future stars of rodeo. This afternoon rodeo begins at 2 p.m. each day, so there’s no conflict with the NFR or other Vegas evening plans, and betting on the action is encouraged.
Photos courtesy of CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out
“With the CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out, Boyd Gaming is providing another great entertainment option during rodeo week for Las Vegas visitors and locals alike,” said Jackie Ferrando, Boyd Gaming director, event marketing. “Our competitors, announcers and stock are talented athletes and professionals, and with reasonable ticket prices, fans can bring their entire family to the award-winning Orleans Arena to enjoy great rodeo action. “ Last year, the event featured world champion riders and ropers such as Cody Ohl, Fred Whitfield, JW Harris, Cody Wright and more. “We’ve worked to make the Chute-Out experience unique in other ways as well,” explained Ferrando. “With our Chute-Out mobile app, we provide a one-of-a-kind digital day sheet that’s updated after each event, has current information on our competitors and options for purchasing tickets. And if you’re looking to bet on rodeo during rodeo week, we’re the only game in town, with full lines on Chute-Out events at all of our Las Vegas sports books. “ Legendary rodeo announcer and Chute-Out ambassador Bob Tallman summed up the new
Chute-Out recently. “This is a hot, powerhouse type of performance and the Orleans Arena is a magical place. This is a great way to rodeo!” The organizers announced there will also be even more surprises, each designed to be very fan-friendly and interactive, announced by the organizers. The CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out app returns again in 2016 with exclusive videos, real-time interaction with the riders, live scoring results and more. CINCH Boyd Gaming Chute-Out ticket and hotel packages are on sale and can be purchased at boydgamingevents.com.
Contestants have a shot at a $200,000 purse
The interactive and fan-friendly Chute-Out at The Orleans Arena 2016 WRANGLER NFR
CALLING ALL
COWBOYS
during the wnfr
GARY ALLAN DEC 9 & 10
VIEWING PARTIES DRINK SPECIALS LIVE WNFR FEED AT ALL CASINO BARS FREE SHUTTLE FREE LIVE DAILY ENTERTAINMENT HOME OF COWGIRL TUFF DURING THE WNFR
AUTOGRAPH SIGNINGS
FO R T I C K E TS AND INFORM ATION: 8 0 0.693 . R O C K | HARD R OC K HOTE L .COM PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. MUST BE 21 OR OVER. MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS.
OFFICIAL 2016 HOTEL SPONSOR OF THE WNFR
Make Hard Rock Hotel and Casino your NFR headquarters
HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO LAS VEGAS YOUR WRANGLER NFR HEADQUARTERS By Gabriele Walkow
A Photo of Hard Rock exterior and Goose Island Pub by Erik Kabik ; Center Bar courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
s a Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) host hotel, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will transform into the ultimate rodeo headquarters from Dec. 1 to Dec. 10 with themed menus, country entertainment, viewing parties and room specials. Guests looking to stay and play on property can take advantage of the NFR hotel specials with weekday rates starting at $65 and weekend rates starting at $105 from Nov. 29 to Dec. 12. All NFR room reservations booked before Dec. 10 include two complimentary buffet breakfasts and two complimentary cocktails.
for rodeo fans, including Bourbon Glazed Baby Back Ribs, Double Cut Berkshire Pork Chops and Cowboy Surf and Turf. Hard Rock Hotel’s newest brewpub, Goose Island Pub, will serve Beef Stroganoff Smothered Biscuits. After two wildly successful performances last year, country music star Gary Allan returns to The Joint for two additional shows on Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 at 9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50 plus applicable service fees. Get ready for a rockin’ good time!
Visitors and locals can fuel up with the Rodeo Breakfast Buffet at Mr. Lucky’s Café. Across the casino, Pink Taco will offer rodeo dishes such as Guajillo Beef Brisket and Enchiladas Del Mar. The property’s premier dining destination, 35 Steaks + Martinis will feature a menu fit
Concertgoers can also enjoy shows at Vinyl, including Mark Wills on Dec. 2 at 10 p.m. (tickets start at $25); Sam Riggs on Dec. 3 at 10 p.m. (tickets start at $25); American Icon–A Tribute to Johnny Cash on Dec. 7 at 10 p.m. (tickets start at $10); and Seth Turner and the High Desert Drifters on Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 at 10 p.m. (no cover).
Hard Rock Hotel’s newest brewpub Goose Island Pub
Fans of western wear will want to visit the 2016 Tuff Fest at Vanity Nightclub from Dec. 1 to Dec. 10. Presented by Cowgirl Tuff, attendees can shop some of the leading brands in the western industry, including Cowgirl Tuff Company and B. Tuff Jeans. Autograph signings by Tuff team members, and the chance to win $1,000 cash and a $1,000 shopping spree daily make this a must-attend event! Within walking distance from NFR action, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will also offer a live NFR feed at all casino bars and a free nightly shuttle service to and from the Thomas & Mack Center.
Hard Rock Hotel’s Center Bar
For more information on your ultimate rodeo headquarters visit hardrockhotel.com. 2016 WRANGLER NFR
The High Roller is the world’s tallest observation wheel
FAR FROM SQUARE
TAKE YOUR VEGAS VACATION TO NEW HEIGHTS ATOP THE HIGH ROLLER By H. Wadowski
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ver since it welcomed its first ticketed passenger back in March 2014, no trip to Las Vegas has been complete without going for a spin on the High Roller at The LINQ Promenade. The world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city with floor-to-ceiling glass windows in each air-conditioned cabin. Topping out at 550 feet, guests can soak up the sights while listening to an informational video, pointing out nearby landmarks, that plays during each 30-minute rotation. Select cabins open to guests ages 21 and older have a bar so passengers can enjoy cocktails while they’re onboard. Visitors can purchase a Happy Half Hour ticket from noon to 1 a.m. for only $38 ($52 at night) that includes an open bar for the entire ride!
Passengers can now also enjoy in-cabin chocolate tastings with Ethel M Chocolates every Thursday from 5 to 8:30 p.m., with the final tasting of the night starting at 8 p.m. Priced at $52, this 2016 WRANGLER NFR
The High Roller is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. General admission tickets are just $23 for adults during the day and $37 at night. Discounts are available for locals and guests ages 13 to 17; children ages 12 and younger ride for free. Private cabins can be reserved, with bachelor and bachelorette packages available. Visit highrollerlv. com for more information.
Find your Om during a High Roller’s Yoga in the Sky session
Enjoy decadent Ethel M chocolates and wine with an exclusive Chocolate Tasting Experience
Photos courtesy of Caesars Entertainment
In recent months, the High Roller expanded its offerings by introducing two new experiences. Available daily from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., its Yoga in the Sky experience includes a 1-hour yoga session (two rotations) with an instructor from Silent Savasana and up to six guests per cabin. Guests are guided through the experience by wearing a headset allowing them to hear the instructor and music and are welcome to bring their own yoga mat or borrow one. Participants also receive a High Roller-branded water bottle perfect for workouts on the go. Sessions cost just $75 per person, with a premium sunset option available Monday through Wednesday for $85 a person. Private one-on-one sessions are available, too.
30-minute experience is the first of its kind in North America. Guests sample five different types of chocolate while learning about the origin of chocolate and how each piece was created from a chocolatier ambassador onboard. A complimentary glass of wine is also included in the sweet experience.
HighRollerVegas
OPEN BAR IN THE SKY
Purchase Happy Half Hour tickets at HighRollerLV.com or the Box Offices.
Country music duo LOCASH performs at Gilley’s from Dec. 4-7
HONKY-TONK FUN ON THE LAS VEGAS STRIP
GILLEY’S SALOON, DANCE HALL & BBQ IS A RODEO FAVORITE H. Wadowski
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through 7 at 10 p.m. and Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band performs Dec. 8 at 9 p.m. and Dec. 9 and 10 at 10 p.m. Free line dancing lessons are available Monday through Friday at 7 p.m. A cover charge applies in the dance hall/saloon after 9 p.m.
Home to the world-famous Gilley Girls (sexy servers donning bikinis, chaps, cowgirl boots and cowboy hats), Gilley’s is one of the Strip’s most popular hang outs for country fans, especially during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo when it hosts live entertainment throughout the 10-day event. In addition to hosting an NFR Bull Riders autograph session on Dec. 7 from noon to 2 p.m., rodeo fans can enjoy the dance hall’s 1,000-square-foot dance floor when the Rob Staley Band performs Dec. 1 at 9 p.m. and Dec. 2 and 3 at 10 p.m., country music duo LOCASH performs Dec. 4
Visitors can also test out their strength and stamina on Gilley’s mechanical bull for a nominal fee. Not only can guests purchase individual rides, but they can also participate in a Toughest Cowboy Competition every Thursday at 10 p.m. or Bikini Bull Riding every Sunday at 10 p.m. For those who might need a little liquid encouragement beforehand, Gilley’s will be featuring an assortment of drink specials throughout the rodeo. There will even be a NFR signature cocktail!
The bar inside the saloon at Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & BBQ 2016 WRANGLER NFR
When it’s time to feed that cowboy-sized appetite, Gilley’s offers an extensive menu of barbecue fare and Southern specialties. Guests can dine inside the Strip-front restaurant and watch passersby through floor-to-ceiling windows as they feast upon such mouthwatering dishes as the Gilley Chili made with ground beef, beans, tomato, cheddar cheese, chopped onions and spices and the smoked BBQ Short Rib with a Dr. Pepper BBQ glaze. Be sure to save room for the Down Home Strawberry Shortcake made with a homestyle, scratch-baked buttermilk biscuit, fresh strawberry sauce and whipped cream. It’s sure to have taste buds saying, “Yee-haw!” For more on everything Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & BBQ has to offer, visit gilleyslasvegas.com.
Photo of LOCASH by Jake Harsh; Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & BBQ courtesy of Treasure Island
as Vegas may go country each year when the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) rides into town, but there’s one place on the Strip where cowboys and cowgirls can go to kick up their boots all year long: Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & BBQ at Treasure Island.
The west gets wild.
Bill Engvall
December 2 in the Treasure Island Theatre
Rob Staley | December 1 – 3
LOCASH | December 4 – 7 Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band | December 8 – 10
SA LO O N • DA N C E H A L L • BA R - B - QU E gilleyslasvegas.com
treasureisland.com
Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Hoedown
SADDLE UP FOR FUN
DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS WRANGLES IN RODEO FANS WITH DYNAMIC EXPERIENCES By H. Wadowski
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Photo of Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Hoedown courtesy of Fremont Street Experience; Downtown Las Vegas Events Center courtesy of Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
ne of the most popular places in town to watch the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is at is the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center. Each night, the 85,000-square-foot outdoor venue will be hosting free viewing parties with a live HD feed from Thomas & Mack Center. Last year, hundreds of rodeo fans gathered nightly to watch each day’s events on giant video screens and enjoy food and drink specials, giveaways and even a meet and greet with the Wright family championship saddle bronc riders. Expect the same this year, with select members of the Wright family and even brother-in-law and fellow saddle bronc rider CoBurn Bradshaw scheduled to be across the street at the D Las Vegas each day for a meet and greet with fans.
stages —including headlining sets by Old Dominion and Sawyer Brown. Visitors can also enjoy free nightly entertainment from a lineup of top specialty country acts Dec. 1 through 11. The 12 Days of Country event coincides with Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Throwdown Barbecue Championships on Dec. 9 and 10, where guests can enjoy delicious samples from the best cowboy cooks around as they compete in a Chili Cook-Off and a Barbecue Cook-Off. For more information on Downtown Las Vegas Events Center’s free viewing parties, visit dlvec.com, and for more on Fremont Street Experience’s rodeo events, visit vegasexperience.com.
The D will also be a featured “Get Tagged” sight on all 10 nights of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Fans can download the new NFR Experience mobile app and sign up for the Get Tagged promotion, which allows participants the chance to collect entries into a Prize Barn by attending designated NFR Experience events throughout the city. Rodeo fans can test their luck during the D and Golden Gate Hotel & Casino’s 3rd Annual Kickin’ It Up Boot Giveaway as well, which will be going on nightly during the rodeo. While you’re downtown, be sure to check out Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Hoedown on Nov. 30. Kicking off Fremont Street Experience’s 12 Days of Country event, guests can expect a star-studded lineup of some of yesterday and today’s top country artists performing free concerts on three
NFR 2015 viewing party at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center 2016 WRANGLER NFR
Mechanical Bull Riding in front of the world’s largest American beer can flag
STONEY’S ROCKIN’ COUNTRY WHERE COUNTRY LIVES IN LAS VEGAS By Gabriele Walkow
H
ome to an intimate live music experience with national country touring acts, Stoney’s is a rockin’ country party. Centrally located on the Strip at Town Square Las Vegas, this is the place to catch shows and dance the night away to your favorite country songs on the 2,000 square-foot dance floor. “We are the only true country and western nightclub and dance hall in Vegas,” said Chris Lowden, founder and owner of Stoney’s Rockin’ Country. “And we are all about line dancing here!”
Photos courtesy of Gian Sapienza/Stoney’s Rockin’ Country
Fully equipped with a performance stage and green room, state-of-the-art digital sound and lighting system, live DJ’s, line dance instructor, a mechanical bull, several amusement games, beer pong tables and pool tables, get ready for a rockin’ good time. Stoney’s is also home to the world’s largest American beer can flag.
Stoney’s dance crowd, this is the newest line dance to hit the Vegas dance floors. Stoney’s is also a rockin’ venue for corporate and private parties, fundraisers, weddings, rehearsal dinners, trade shows, luncheons and other social events. The Stoney’s team will help you book, coordinate and plan your entire event with catering, beverage, entertainment, decorations and setup services. Be sure to catch Stoney’s new “Music City to Sin City LIVE Concert Series,” featuring Nashville’s hottest country stars direct from Las Vegas to party Stoney’s style! Go to bonkotv.com. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 7 p.m. until 4 a.m., get ready to party all night long! For more information, visit stoneysrockincountry.com.
The fun never stops at Stoney’s! Reloaded Wednesdays is local appreciation night with no cover charge and all well, wine and draft only $2 all night long for everyone. Wednesday’s $25 Crown and Down special is also very popular. Ladies can drink well, wine and draft for only $1 on Thursday’s world famous Ladies Night. Thursday features All You Can Drink Draft Beer for $25, too. On Fresh Country Friday, guests 18 and over can enjoy the latest bands coming through Las Vegas. Saturday’s are no cover for military, fire and police plus $25 All You Can Drink Draft Beer. Dance lessons with Stoney’s very own Amanda are offered Wednesday through Saturday at 7.30 p.m. Among favorites such as the Hippie Shake and the Tush Push, be prepared to learn Twisted. Choreographed by Amanda just for 2016 WRANGLER NFR
Shots anyone?
VEGAS LAS presented by
Las Vegas Convention Center SOUTH HALLS - 9am - 5pm
December 1 - 10, 2016 #WranglerNFR
FREE ADMISSION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
/LasVegasNFR
NFRexperience.com