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Showing posts with label Downtown. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Downtown. Show all posts

Monday, April 6, 2026

Get Ready to Rock: Count’s 77 Brings The Heat To The Fremont Street Experience May 1st 2026

 Las Vegas is about to feel the full force of classic hard‑driving rock when Count’s 77, led by the unmistakable TV personality / Rock Star BaD-A$$ Danny “Count” Koker, as they storm the Fremont Street Experience on May 1st. (Stage To Be Announced). Known for their powerhouse sound, vintage‑muscle swagger, and a lineup stacked with world‑class musicians, Count’s 77 remains one of the most electrifying live bands to come out of the Las Vegas rock scene.

Count's 77
Photo-Credit Goes To The Photographer


This isn’t just another show — it’s a full‑throttle, street‑shaking rock revival right in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas!

Count's 77 Band Members Appearing May 1st: Fremont Street Experience

The face of Counting Cars and the soul of Count’s 77, Danny "Count" Koker brings a voice built for arena rock and a stage presence that hits like a V8 engine at full roar. His passion for classic rock and vintage horsepower fuels every performance, turning each show into a high‑octane celebration of the music he loves.

A blues‑rock virtuoso with international cred, Stoney Curtis delivers the kind of soaring leads and gritty riffs that define the band’s signature sound. His guitar work is fiery, fluid, and unmistakably world‑class — the kind of playing that grabs a crowd by the collar and doesn’t let go!

With his roots‑driven tone, John Zito adds the raw, soulful edge that gives Count’s 77 its blues‑infused backbone. His chemistry with Stoney Curtis creates a dual‑guitar attack reminiscent of the great classic‑rock eras!

Holding down the low end with style and swagger, Barry Barnes delivers the deep, chest‑thumping bass lines that keep the crowd moving. His steady presence and tight musicianship make the band’s lineup look like a who's who in the US music scene!

Precision, power, and pure rock discipline on drums — Shon McKee is the engine that drives Count’s 77. His thunderous grooves and explosive fills give the band its unmistakable live punch, locking in the rhythm section with authority!

{My Take}

As the lights blaze across the Fremont Street Experience and the amps crank to full power on May 1, I guarantee that Count’s 77 will deliver the kind of unforgettable rock spectacle that only Las Vegas can host. With Danny “Count” Koker leading a lineup of world‑class musicians, their performance promises to be a night of soaring guitars, thunderous rhythm, and pure rock energy. Whether you’re a longtime fan (Like Me) or just discovering this amazing band for the first time, prepare to be pulled into a high‑octane musical experience that will echo long after their final notes fade!

Come May 1st, Count’s 77 won't just rock the Fremont Street stage — they'll blow the Viva Vision Canopy clear off of the Fremont Street Experience!

Come ready to rock your lights out!

Gary England

Check out these links for more information on upcoming projects and events.

Count's 77 Official Website

Count's 77 Facebook

Fremont Street Experience

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #USANetwork



Thursday, March 5, 2026

Dust In The Wind The Eastside Cannery Implosion: What Landmark Casinos Still Stand In Las Vegas And Will They Survive?

 When the Eastside Cannery Casino collapsed into dust early Thursday morning, March 5th, it wasn’t just another demolition—it was another reminder of how quickly Las Vegas rewrites its own skyline.



The city’s relationship with its past has always been complicated: preservation is sentimental, but land is money. Yet despite decades of implosions, a surprising number of landmark casinos still stand, still operate, and still carry the DNA of old Vegas. The question now is: will they be left alone—and why?

Below is a look at the most iconic casinos still standing, what makes them historically significant, and the forces that may determine their future.

The Landmark Casinos Still Standing

Golden Gate Hotel & Casino (1906)

The oldest operating casino in Las Vegas, Golden Gate, is a living museum of Fremont Street. Its small footprint and boutique charm make it less vulnerable to redevelopment pressure. It’s also tightly integrated into Derek Stevens’ downtown ecosystem, giving it strategic value.

El Cortez (1941)

A mob-era classic once owned by Bugsy Siegel, El Cortez is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That designation alone makes demolition unlikely, but its continued profitability and strong local following make it even safer.

Binion’s Gambling Hall (1951)

Home of the original World Series of Poker, Binion’s remains a cornerstone of downtown’s identity. Its brand value is tied to history, not modern mega-resort amenities, which ironically protects it—no one wants to replace what still draws tourists for its authenticity.

The Flamingo (1946)

The oldest resort still operating on the Strip, the Flamingo is a hybrid of old and new. While much of its original structure is long gone, the brand and location remain iconic. Its prime Strip real estate makes it a candidate for future redevelopment—but its name is too valuable to disappear entirely.

** The Tropicana (1957)

Note: The Tropicana was demolished in 2024–2025 to make way for the new A’s ballpark. Its removal underscores the reality: no property is safe if the land becomes more valuable than the building.

The Sahara (1952, reopened 2019)

Though heavily renovated and rebranded, the Sahara’s bones remain. Its survival depends on continued reinvention rather than nostalgia.

Why These Casinos Are Likely to Survive (For Now)

Historical Value = Brand Value

Casinos like Golden Gate, El Cortez, and Binion’s aren’t just buildings—they’re brands built on authenticity. In a city obsessed with reinvention, “real old Vegas” is now a marketable commodity.

 Downtown’s Revival Protects Its Icons

Fremont Street’s resurgence has made its vintage casinos profitable again. As long as foot traffic stays strong, there’s no financial incentive to implode them.

Smaller Footprints Make Redevelopment Less Attractive

Many of the oldest casinos sit on small parcels. Developers prefer large, contiguous land holdings for mega-resorts—something downtown simply doesn’t offer.

Historic Designations Slow Down Demolition

El Cortez’s national historic status doesn’t make it untouchable, but it does add layers of bureaucracy and public scrutiny.

Why Some Casinos Won’t Be Left Alone

The Eastside Cannery’s implosion is part of a larger pattern: Las Vegas removes properties when the land becomes more valuable than the building.

Factors that put casinos at risk:

  • Large parcels ripe for redevelopment

  • Aging infrastructure too costly to modernize

  • Shifting tourism patterns (e.g., the Strip vs. locals’ casinos)

  • Corporate consolidation leading to strategic land banking

The Cannery sat on a massive piece of Boulder Highway real estate—prime for future redevelopment. Its demolition wasn’t about history; it was about opportunity.

So Will the Remaining Landmarks Be Left Alone?

In the short term: Yes. Downtown’s vintage casinos are profitable, culturally valuable, and tightly woven into the Fremont Street experience.

In the long term, nothing in Las Vegas is guaranteed. If a future developer sees more value in the land than the legacy, history shows what happens next.

But for now, the surviving landmarks endure because they offer something the mega-resorts can’t replicate: authenticity, nostalgia, and a direct line to the city’s roots.

As the dust settles from the Eastside Cannery implosion, Las Vegas is reminded once again that while the city constantly reinvents itself, some icons remain standing—not by accident, but because they still matter.

GE



Saturday, December 13, 2025

Downtown’s Crown Jewel: Las Vegas Fremont Street Experience Turns 30 On December 14th 2025

 Tomorrow, on December 14th, the Fremont Street Experience will mark its 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades of dazzling light shows, events, and live music, as well as being the party central hub for downtown Las Vegas. 

Looking ahead, 2026 promises even bigger events, including star-studded concerts and the legendary New Year’s Eve “Countdown Under The Canopy.”


Since opening in 1995, the Fremont Street Experience has been the beating heart of downtown Las Vegas. Conceived as a bold solution to revitalize the area’s casinos and nightlife, the pedestrian mall transformed five blocks of Fremont Street into an immersive entertainment district.

  • The Canopy (Viva Vision): The world’s largest LED screen, stretching 1,375 feet, became the centerpiece of the Experience. Nightly light shows under the canopy draw millions of visitors and redefine the skyline of downtown Vegas.

  • Revitalization of Downtown: Casinos like Binion’s Horseshoe and Fitzgeralds (now The D Las Vegas) invested in new towers and attractions, while Boyd Gaming reopened Main Street Station, helping to restore downtown’s vibrancy.

  • Expanding Attractions: Over the years, Fremont Street added the SlotZilla Zipline, Circa Resort & Casino, and countless free concerts, cementing its reputation as “An Iconic Vegas Original”.

The 30th anniversary celebration on December 14, will feature proclamations from city leaders, exclusive canopy shows, and live performances that honor Fremont Street’s role in shaping Las Vegas entertainment.

Fremont Street Experience is more than neon lights—it’s a cultural landmark. Hosting 22 million annual visitors, it has become a symbol of Las Vegas' grit and glamour. For locals, it represents the preservation of classic Vegas energy while embracing modern spectacle.

  • Community Connection: Free nightly concerts and themed events make Fremont Street accessible to all ages, reinforcing its role as a community hub.

Tourist Magnet: Viva Vision shows and immersive attractions ensure downtown remains competitive with the Strip.

The future looks just as bright. Fremont Street Experience has already announced major events for 2026:

  • New Year’s Eve 2026 – Countdown Under The Canopy: Headliners include Robin Thicke, CeeLo Green, Common Kings, Chingy, Pertinence, and Sammy Johnson, promising an electrifying night to welcome the new year.

  • Concert Series 2026: A diverse lineup of rock legends, rising stars, and genre-spanning performers will take the stage throughout the year.

  • Special Attractions: Expect continued Viva Vision upgrades, themed festivals, and competitive events like the North American Open Arm-wrestling Championship at Binion’s Casino in March 2026.

{My Take}

The 30th anniversary of the Fremont Street Experience celebrates its legacy as the original immersive entertainment hub of Las Vegas. From its 1995 debut to today’s world-class canopy shows, Fremont Street has continually reinvented itself while staying true to its roots. With 2026’s lineup of concerts, championships, and the iconic New Year’s Eve bash, the Experience is poised to keep downtown Las Vegas glowing for many decades to come!

Only Las Vegas!

GE






Sunday, December 7, 2025

The Beat Beneath The Canopy: Why The Fremont Street Experience Rules Downtown Las Vegas

For the first time in many months, I have a one-day vacay away from writing. What good timing, being that finally I can experience where my music adventure began, way back when I moved to Las Vegas in 1999. A short drive down to the Fremont Street Experience, to catch up with some old friends, and to hear some BaDD-A$$ music! 

About Fremont Street, and the three awesome bands that I caught up to this past Friday night.

 On any given night in Downtown Las Vegas, the air is thick with neon glow, the hum of slot machines, and most importantly, the pulse of live music. Beneath the sprawling LED canopy of the Fremont Street Experience, three stages keep the city’s historic core alive, drawing crowds that rival the Strip’s megaresorts.

The Main Street Stage, 1st Street Stage, and 3rd Street Stage aren’t just platforms for cover bands and tribute acts. They’re the heartbeat of downtown, places where locals and tourists alike gather shoulder-to-shoulder, beer in hand, to sing along to classics or discover new sounds.

A Short History of the Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street has always been the soul of Las Vegas. In the early 20th century, it was the city’s first paved street, lined with casinos and neon signs that earned it the nickname “Glitter Gulch.”

By the 1980s, however, the Strip’s glitzy megaresorts began pulling tourists away, leaving downtown struggling to compete. City leaders responded with a bold idea: transform Fremont into a pedestrian mall capped by a massive light canopy.

On December 14, 1995, the Fremont Street Experience officially opened, spanning five blocks and instantly redefining downtown nightlife. Over the years, it has evolved with attractions like the SlotZilla Zipline and upgraded canopy technology, but its essence remains the same: a place where history and spectacle collide.

Why the Music & the Stages Endure

  • Free and Accessible: In a city where entertainment often comes with a hefty price tag, Fremont’s stages remain free. Anyone can wander in and be part of the experience!

  • Variety and Energy: From rock legends reborn through tribute acts to country jams during the National Finals Rodeo, the programming is eclectic enough to keep repeat visitors engaged.

  • Immersive Setting: The canopy above isn’t just decoration, it’s a 1,375-foot-long LED spectacle that syncs with performances, turning concerts into multi-sensory events.

  • Tradition Meets Community: Annual events like the Downtown Rocks concert series and the Downtown Hoedown have become rituals, cementing the stages as cultural anchors.

As for this music & entertainment journalist, “You don’t plan to stay for hours, but you always do. The music grabs you, and suddenly you’re part of the crowd.”

 The Legacy Lives On

Thirty years later, the Fremont Street Experience is more than a tourist draw; it’s a cultural landmark. The three stages embody the free-spirited energy of “old Vegas” while embracing modern spectacle. Together, they ensure that downtown remains a living, breathing entertainment hub, distinct from the Strip’s polished megaresorts.

In a city built on reinvention, Fremont Street proves that some traditions don’t just survive, they thrive!

Take it from me. The Fremont Street Experience is alive and kicking!

As far as the band's Friday night. They all kicked major Booty!!

Dr. Rock
Tony Marques Band


The Garage Boys

Click on the band links below each picture and check them out! 

Check out all of the excitement: Fremont Street Experience Calendar 
They're All Awesome!


GE

Saturday, November 22, 2025

Las Vegas Local Bands The Far Worst Heroine Honey And Dez Hoston: Under The Spotlights Of The Neon City Festival This Saturday And Sunday Night

After a rainy night in Sin City for night one, Las Vegas is set to shine for nights two and three of the Neon City Festival in downtown LV, on the Fremont Street Experience and the Downtown LV Events Center.
 



Even more exciting for local music fans, Saturday and Sunday nights, three of our top local bands are set to hit the stage at the prestigious Neon City Festival.



 Saturday, November 22nd

  • The Far Worst hits the Third Street Stage at 6:00 pm, delivering their raw, unapologetic style that has earned them a huge loyal following in the Local Las Vegas Music Scene. Expect a set packed with grit, emotion, and the kind of intensity that makes you lean in closer to the stage!

  • At 7:00 pm on the Main Street Stage, Heroine Honey takes the spotlight. Known for their powerful vocals and electrifying stage presence, Heroine Honey blends rock and soul into a performance that feels both timeless and urgent. Their set is sure to be one of the night’s defining moments!

 Sunday, November 23rd

  • Dez Hoston and his band bring their unique sound to the 1st Street Stage at 6:00 pm. With heartfelt storytelling and infectious rhythms, Dez Hoston has built a reputation for connecting deeply with audiences. His band’s performance will close the weekend with a powerful reminder of the city’s creative spirit!


The Neon Festival isn’t just about lights and stages; it’s about Las Vegas musicians stepping into the limelight. The Far Worst, Heroine Honey, and Dez Hoston represent the diversity and passion of the local scene, each carrying the city’s energy into their music. Together, they remind us that Vegas isn’t only about spectacle, it’s about community, creativity, and the artists who make it unforgettable.

So, Saturday and Sunday, step into the neon glow, support local talent, and let the music carry you through the weekend.

As the Neon Festival wraps up, one thing is clear: Las Vegas’s music scene is alive, thriving, and ready to claim its place in the spotlight. With The Far Worst, Heroine Honey, and Dez Hoston leading the charge, the weekend proves that the city’s brightest lights aren’t just neon, they’re the artists who bring passion, grit, and soul to every stage. The festival may end on Sunday night, but the legacy of local bands and music talent continues to glow long after the final note of the festival is gone!

GE

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #USAT


Thursday, July 3, 2025

Boom in the Desert Where to Catch Las Vegas Fireworks This 4th of July

 

Tomorrow night, the summer skies over Las Vegas will once again ignite with dazzling Fourth of July fireworks across the city!
On Friday, July 4, the Valley’s iconic skyline, from the Las Vegas Strip to family-friendly parks to downtown Las Vegas, will erupt in patriotic colors starting around 9 p.m.. Highlights include spectacular displays at Caesars Palace and downtown Plaza Hotel & Casino, along with paid rooftop and poolside viewings at multiple Station Casinos properties. Beyond the Strip, expect many vibrant celebrations across the entire city. Las Vegas Loves The 4th of July!



Here are the (Scheduled) major Fourth of July fireworks events in Las Vegas for Friday, July 4, 2025.


Downtown & Public Parks

  • Buckskin Basin Park (7350 Buckskin Ave) – Free aerial fireworks at ~9 p.m., along with music, a marching band, and food trucks.

  • Plaza Hotel & Casino (Downtown) – Rooftop fireworks at ~9:15 p.m. (also part of their Friday night tradition), free admission, with the show viewable from Fremont Street.


Casino & Resort Displays (Station Casinos)

(Ticketed events, usually $35/adult, $10/child—check with venues for exact pricing)

  • Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa – Poolside viewing with fireworks at ~9 p.m.

  • Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa – Similar setup: pool party leading to fireworks at 9 p.m.

  • Durango Casino & Resort – Viewing from their Bel‑Aire Backyard starting at 7 p.m., fireworks at ~9 p.m.


Strip & Sphere

  • Caesars Palace (Las Vegas Strip) – Fireworks from the Julius Tower rooftop at ~9 p.m., visible up and down the Boulevard.

  • Las Vegas Sphere – Special digital/audio “illumination” events at approximately 9:30 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.


Beyond Las Vegas

  • Lake Las Vegas – Patriotic fireworks over the water at 9 p.m. 

  • Cowabunga Canyon (Las Vegas) & Cowabunga Bay (Henderson) – “Red, White & Kaboom” water‑park celebration with fireworks at 8:50 p.m., entry around $50.

  • M Resort Spa & Casino (Henderson) – “Red, White & Boots” event with a live concert at 7:45 p.m. and fireworks at ~9 p.m.

  • Henderson Heritage Park – Family-friendly celebration beginning ~6 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m. 

  • Boulder City (Veterans Memorial Park) – Afternoon parade and fireworks at 9 p.m.


Other Notable Mentions

  • Floyd Lamb State Park – Additional fireworks display at 9 p.m.

  • Various golf & residential clubs (e.g., Red Rock Country Club, Las Vegas Country Club) also have separate fireworks around 8:30–9 p.m.


No matter where you are in the Las Vegas Valley this Fourth of July, there’s a fireworks show lighting up the sky nearby, from the vibrant Strip to family-friendly parks, to stunning lakeside displays, to Fremont Street in downtown LV.
Las Vegas is going all out to celebrate Independence Day 2025.

Happy 4th!

GE


Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Which Las Vegas Casinos Have The Best Slot Machine Odds Of Paying Out?

 If you're seeking Las Vegas casinos with the best slot machine payouts, it's best to play at the venues away from the Strip. Casinos in areas like North Las Vegas and the Boulder Strip often offer higher payout percentages, providing better odds for the players to walk out with some of the casino's cash.


Top Areas for Slot Machine Payouts

Based on data from the Nevada Gaming Control Board. 

Listed by Area & Payout Percentage.


Boulder Strip   94.05%

North Las Vegas   93.08%

Downtown Las Vegas   92.16%

The LV Strip   91.81%

----------

Notable Casinos with High Payouts

  • North Las Vegas:

    • Jerry’s Nugget: Known for its generous slot payouts.

    • Cannery Casino & Hotel: Offers a wide variety of slots with favorable returns.

    • Aliante Casino + Hotel + Spa: Features modern slot machines with competitive payouts.

    • Santa Fe Station: *My Favorite LV Casino For Slot Machine Play*


Boulder Strip:

  • Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall: A favorite among locals for its loose slots.

  • Arizona Charlie’s Boulder: Offers a diverse selection of slot machines with good returns.

  • Boulder Station Hotel & Casino: Known for its player-friendly slot payouts.


Downtown Las Vegas:

  • El Cortez Hotel & Casino: Often cited for having some of the loosest slots in Vegas.

  • The D Las Vegas: Combines vintage charm with favorable slot odds.

  • Golden Nugget Las Vegas: Offers a mix of classic and modern slots with decent payouts.



The Strip:

  • Circus Circus Hotel & Casino: Among the Strip casinos, it's recognized for higher slot payouts.

  • Paris Las Vegas: Offers a variety of slot machines with competitive returns.

  • Bellagio Hotel & Casino: While luxurious, it also provides some slots with reasonable payouts.​


{My Take}


Finding the best slot machine odds in Las Vegas isn’t just about luck—it’s about knowing where to play. Casinos like Main Street Station, the El Cortez, and others off the Strip (Santa Fe Station) consistently offer higher payout percentages, giving savvy players a better shot. While no slot machine can guarantee a win, choosing the right casino can make a real difference in how long your money lasts—and how far your luck might go. Do your research, play within your limits, and enjoy the thrill of the spin. In Vegas, the next jackpot might just be one pull away, Yours!

Good Luck!

GE