Las Vegas’ Fremont Street Experience to mark 30th anniversary with December celebrations

Fremont Street Experience will celebrate its 30th anniversary in December, marking three decades since the unveiling of its pedestrian mall and The Canopy, a development widely credited with reshaping downtown Las Vegas.

Opened in 1995, the attraction has expanded over the years to include the SlotZilla Zipline, the Circa Resort & Casino, and a steady lineup of free live entertainment. This year’s anniversary theme is “An Iconic Vegas Original.” 

“Fremont Street Experience has always been about creating unforgettable moments,” said Dana Reynolds, Vice President of Marketing. “For 30 years, we’ve been proud to serve as the heartbeat of downtown Las Vegas, blending innovation, entertainment, and community spirit. This anniversary is a celebration of the people, performances, and energy that have made Fremont Street Experience such a landmark destination.”

A series of events will run throughout December. The Downtown Hoedown opens the month on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 4 p.m., serving as the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo’s official kickoff party. The lineup includes free country performances from Midland, Corey Kent, Josh Ross, and Mackenzie Carpenter.

A Guinness holiday pop-up follows on Dec. 5 and 6 from noon to 8 p.m., offering complimentary beer samples, holiday merchandise, gift wrapping, and themed photo areas.

The official anniversary celebration takes place on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. The evening begins with a Menorah Lighting and continues with remarks from officials and business figures involved in the launch of The Canopy in 1995.

New canopy shows will debut as part of the program, and Mayor Shelley Berkley will lead the annual Christmas tree lighting alongside KTNV. The event also marks the opening of Neon Nights Holiday Lights, Fremont Street Experience’s first holiday village.

Neon Nights runs nightly from Dec. 14 to 19 between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Presented with First Friday and KTNV, the village includes Santa visits, local pop-up vendors, food and beverage sampling from nearby properties, festive décor, and a canned-food donation station. Entry is free.

The Las Vegas Bowl Pep Rally returns on Tuesday, Dec. 30, at 5 p.m., with marching bands, cheerleaders, and mascots representing the competing teams.

The month concludes with Countdown Under The Canopy, the annual New Year’s Eve celebration, on Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. Performers include Robin Thicke, CeeLo Green, Common Kings, Chingy, Pertinence, and Sammy Johnson. Tickets cost $60 online, increasing to $65 on Dec. 27.