Category: Nevada

Celebrate a literary legend: Mark Twain Days this May

Holiday, Holiday events, Holiday Travel, Nevada

The Brewery Arts Center and Visit Carson City invite travelers and northern Nevadans to attend the second annual , beginning Friday, May 10 through Sunday, May 12, 2024. Events will take place in Downtown Carson City, Nevada and Virginia City, Nevada, and will celebrate one of America’s most prolific, wise—and wise-cracking—writers, Mark Twain. A complete schedule of events and activities is available at MarkTwainDays.com.

Although Samual Clemens was born in 1835 in Missouri, he took the name Mark Twain while living in Carson City and Virginia City in the early 1860s. This is why many people claim Nevada as the true birthplace of the literary legend.

In recognition of Mark Twain’s lasting contributions to Nevada and American culture, the 2024 Mark Twain Days Festival will feature several events, including:

  • McAvoy Layne Appearances – Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11

McAvoy Layne, the beloved “Ghost of Mark Twain,” will appear as a special guest speaker for activities at the Brewery Arts Center on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.

  • Twain Train VIP Rail Excursion – 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 10

Departing from the Eastgate Depot in Carson City, passengers will embark on a 24-mile round-trip ride to Virginia City where they can experience Mark Twain events. Tickets start at $125 per person and are on sale at MarkTwainDays.com.

  • Free Museum Day – Saturday, May 11

Visitors and community members are welcome to enjoy free admission for a day at the Nevada State Museum, the Nevada State Railroad Museum, the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada, and free tours of the Nevada Capitol Building.

  • Carson City Ghost Walk, Featuring: The Fabulists – 10-11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12

Join the Carson City Ghost Walk for a 90-minute tour to learn about the lives of the Victorian era’s saucy writers, brazen entertainers, and cheeky neighbors who shaped the young Nevada territory during the time of Mark Twain. Tours begin at the Bob McFadden Plaza and end at The Brewery Arts Center. Tickets purchased in advance are $25 per person, or $30 if purchased the day of, and are on sale at CarsonCityGhostWalk.com.

  • The 2024 Bow Tie Ball – 6-9 p.m., Saturday, May 11

Dance the night away at the Nevada State Museum during the second annual Bow Tie Ball, an 1860s-themed party featuring live music, performances, drinks, food, and a scavenger hunt. Tickets are $100 per person and are on sale at BreweryArts.org/2024bowtieball.

“The Mark Twain Days Festival offers incredible experiences for visitors to dive into the cultural and historical legacy of Mark Twain,” said Dave Peterson, executive director of Visit Carson City. “The Visit Carson City team is thrilled to partner with the Brewery Arts Center and the Virginia City Tourism Commission to coordinate this unforgettable celebration for people of all ages to enjoy.”

Twain wrote about his time in Nevada in his book, “Roughing It” in which he stated, “I only proposed to stay in Nevada three months—I had no thought of staying longer than that… I little thought that I would not see the end of that three-month pleasure excursion for six or seven uncommonly long years!”

Visitors may book their stay for the Mark Twain Days Festival at VisitCarsonCity.com/stay. For those looking to extend their visit—in true Mark Twain style—itineraries, day trips, and several attractions in Carson City are available to explore at VisitCarsonCity.com.

###

Presented by Visit Carson City and the Brewery Arts Center, the second annual Mark Twain Days Festival will celebrate the tremendous legacy of the prolific American writer and humorist, Mark Twain, beginning Friday, May 10 – Sunday, May 12, 2024. Events are happening in Downtown Carson City and Virginia City.

About Visit Carson City:

Carson City is where history lives and adventure awaits. Carson City boasts an array of outdoor adventures, restaurants, golf courses, historical attractions, museums, gaming opportunities, and a plethora of events and entertainment. Visitors will find plenty of exciting activities and experiences to choose from. In the heart of the action, Carson City is nestled just minutes from the legendary Lake Tahoe, electrifying Reno, historic Virginia City and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. For more information, go to Visit Carson City’s website at visitcarsoncity.com.

About Brewery Arts Center

Brewery Arts Center is housed by two historic buildings and encompasses two city blocks on the historic West Side of Nevada’s Capital, Carson City. BAC boasts a FREE outdoor summer concert series, the 150 seat Maizie theater, a 250 seat Performance Hall, an Exhibition Hall, a Grand Ballroom, and an Artisan Store, as well as an educational wing featuring painting, pottery, and multipurpose studios. Each space on the campus delivers multi-generational and multi-cultural art experiences and opportunities for personal and community growth through entertainment, education, and enrichment.

Tickets Now On Sale for One of World’s Most Thrilling Race-Watching Experiences

Adventure, Las Vegas, Nevada, Uncategorized

MGM Resorts International’s Bellagio Fountain Club makes its return for the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2024, delivering race fans one of the circuit’s most exciting event experiences.

Tickets for the premier race weekend destination are now on sale, inviting attendees to enjoy an extraordinary VIP experience only available at Bellagio Fountain Club. Centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip, Bellagio Fountain Club will deliver unparalleled track and Fountain views; front row seats of the Las Vegas Grand Prix Winner’s Stage; private indoor and rooftop hospitality decks; and unlimited food & beverage throughout the weekend, prepared by an extraordinary collection of the world’s most acclaimed chefs.

Offering unrivaled proximity to both the circuit and MGM Resorts’ portfolio of luxury properties, Bellagio Fountain Club encapsulates a best-of Las Vegas dining, nightlife, entertainment, attractions and luxurious hospitality in one unforgettable venue. Mario Carbone, David Chang, Alain Ducasse, Masaharu Morimoto and Jean-Georges Vongerichten are the first set of chefs confirmed for the culinary program, offering eventgoers new and limitless selections of fine-dining delights nightly. Throughout the weekend, Bellagio Fountain Club guests will be treated to exclusive pop-up performances from Las Vegas’ signature entertainers, buzzing nightlife experiences, and an open bar crafted by master sommeliers and award-winning mixologists.

“Bellagio Fountain Club’s debut at last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix event surpassed all expectations,” said Andrew Lanzino, MGM Resorts International’s Vice President of Citywide Events Strategy. “Following the incredible reception from our guests last year, the team is hard at work crafting plans for an even more exceptional experience when racing’s most exciting event returns to Las Vegas.”

Bellagio Fountain Club packages include three-day event tickets and accommodations within MGM Resorts’ premier portfolio of rooms and suites, all walking distance from the circuit. Guests can book their experience via Bellagio Fountain Club Packages.

Additional details on MGM Resorts’ events and activations surrounding the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2024 will be announced over the coming months. Follow @MGMResortsIntl for updates throughout the year.

About MGM Resorts International

MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500® global gaming and entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands.

The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 31 unique hotel and gaming destinations globally, including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. The Company’s 50/50 venture, BetMGM, LLC, offers U.S. sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands, including BetMGM and partypoker, and the Company’s subsidiary, LeoVegas AB, offers sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands in several jurisdictions throughout Europe. The Company is currently pursuing targeted expansion in Asia through the integrated resort opportunity in Japan. Through its “Focused on What Matters: Embracing Humanity and Protecting the Planet” philosophy, MGM Resorts commits to creating a more sustainable future, while striving to make a bigger difference in the lives of its employees, guests, and in the communities where it operates. The global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE® Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies®. For more information, please visit us at www.mgmresorts.com. Please also connect with us @MGMResortsIntl on Twitter as well as Facebook and Instagram.

About FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX

Established in 2023, the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX is co-promoted by Formula 1® and Liberty Media Corporation, in collaboration with Clark County. The 50-lap race takes place on a 3.8-mile circuit in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and sees drivers reach jaw-dropping speeds of over 215 mph (346 kph) as they drive around some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, hotels, and casinos. Through the Las Vegas Grand Prix Foundation, Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. has donated nearly $1 million to local organizations and programs across the state and is committed to providing resources that directly address some of the most pressing challenges facing local families and communities. The 2024 race will take place on November 21-23, 2024. For more information, visit www.f1lasvegasgp.com.

Latest Venture from Restaurateur Mitsuo Endo, Creator of Raku and Sweets Raku Debuts 

Casa de Raku, charcuteries, Las Vegas, Nevada, Restaurants

CASA DE RAKU BRINGS TRADITIONAL EUROPEAN TAPAS & WINE TO LAS VEGAS

Casa de Raku, a traditional European tapas and wine bar, is now open in Chinatown, Las Vegas. Created by Restaurateur Mistuo Endo, culinary mind behind Raku and Sweets Raku, Casa de Raku is inspired by the extraordinary flavors and variety Spanish cuisine offers. 

Open for dinner and late-night, Casa de Raku showcases characteristically bold flavors, premium ingredients, and lively aesthetics punctuated by curated pieces directly from Spain. Completely renovating the space that was previously Sweets Raku, the team has created a dining experience designed to transport guests to an intimate tapas bar. 

“We’re excited to welcome guests into Casa de Raku so they can immerse themselves in the tastes, smells, and sights you normally have to travel halfway around the globe to experience,” said Cameron Mackintosh-Stewart, General Manager of Casa de Raku. “We’ve worked tirelessly to execute a sophisticated tapas bar while also wanting guests to have fun and feel at home.”

A GLIMPSE INTO CASA DE RAKU’S MENU:

The menu was curated by Chef Mistuo Endo and his culinary team with recipes inspired by the group’s extensive travels throughout Madrid, San Sebastian, León, and Segovia, amongst others. From seafood, meats, pastries, and drinks, Casa de Raku is dedicated to bringing the heart and taste of European cooking to Las Vegas.

Drinks: Casa de Raku offers a curated wine program, three beer options on tap, and traditional wine cocktails. Whether guests are in search of a refreshing spritz or glass of wine to accompany a tapas dish, Casa de Raku’s selection of drinks are sure to please a range of palates and preferences. 

Drink highlights include:

  • Tinto de Verano: A refreshing, wine-based drink popular in Spain. Comprised of Spanish red wine, Spanish sweet vermouth, and sweet soda, Tinto de Verano is served with lots of ice cubes and orange slice.
  • Black & Tan: Beer cocktail made by layering lager and Guinness.
  • Cava: Delicious Spanish sparkling wine made in Catalonia, located in Northeastern Spain. Casa de Raku offers two cava options by the glass or bottle. 
  • Vino Blanco: Casa de Raku showcases a wide selection of European white wines available by the glass or bottle. A notable white wine variety available at Casa de Raku is Txakoli, a slightly sparkling, very dry white wine produced in the Spanish Basque County. 
  • Vino Tinto: Casa de Raku offers a variety of red wines including Riojas, indigenous Spanish wine varietal, as well as limited edition Cabernets from Napa Valley. 

Tapas: Casa de Raku offers a selection of pintxos, charcuteries, salads, seafood, and meat dishes. 

Menu highlights include: 

  • Jamón Iberico: One of the most celebrated Spanish food products, Casa de Raku serves 5-Year-Aged, 100% Bellota Jamon Iberico, sliced from the bone per-order.
  • Iberico Katsu: A unique twist on a classic Spanish ingredient, this dish showcases premium Iberico ham with a classic Japanese preparation. 
  • Croquetas: A quintessential Spanish dish, Casa de Raku’s take on croquetas are made by combining potato puree, French cream, and premium imported sliced meats, all breaded in panko breadcrumbs and fried.
  • Pulpos: Flambeed octopus prepared with a white wine garlic sauce and fried brussel sprouts. 

Desserts: Sweets are an important part of Spanish culture and cuisine. Paying homage to classic Spanish desserts, Casa de Raku’s desserts are the perfect end of meal treat, crafted to satisfy any sweet tooth. 

Dessert highlights include: 

  • Basque-Style Cheesecake: Inspired by San Sebastian’s burnt Basque cheesecake, this dessert is light and creamy with a strong cheese flavor paired with an almond and walnut crust and served with grated Manchego cheese and raspberry jam. 
  • Churros: One of the most beloved Spanish pastries, Casa de Raku’s baked churros are dusted with sugar and served with freshly melted chocolate sauce. 

Casa de Raku is open Tuesday – Saturday from 6 p.m. – 2 a.m., with last call at 1:30 a.m. Casa de Raku is located in Chinatown at 5040 W Spring Mountain Rd Suite , Las Vegas, NV 89146. For more information, view Casa de Raku on Instagram. 

About Chef Mitsuo Endo:

Chef Mitsuo Endo, owner and founder of the Raku restaurant group, has garnered critical and popular acclaim for his commitment to traditional Kaiseki cuisine and integration of top-quality Japanese and Western ingredients.

Born and raised in Tokyo, Endo became an apprentice chef at 18, working at prestigious Kaiseki restaurants across the city. After 12 years working as a chef in Japan, Endo decided to move to the United States to chase his dream of becoming a restaurateur in America. Moving to Seattle in 2001, Endo became head chef and opened his first restaurant. Desiring to be continually challenged, Endo moved to New York the following year and met his mentor Koji Imani. The pair joined forces for the opening of MEGU Tribeca and Midtown, where Endo was the executive chef for five years. With nearly 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Endo moved to Las Vegas where he opened his own restaurant, Aburiya Raku. Since opening in 2008, Aburiya Raku has been nominated for awards such as James Beard Award Best New Restaurant (2009), James Beard Award Best Chef Southwest (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015), and more. For additional information, visit raku-grill.com or follow Aburiya Raku on Instagram. 

OPEN NOW: CHEF MICHAEL MINA DEBUTS ORLA AT MANDALAY BAY IN LAS VEGAS

Casino, Hotels, Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay, Michael Mina, Nevada, Resort

Chef Mina’s most personal restaurant to date features timeless flavors, a convivial table experience and one of The Strip’s largest collections of wine

Renowned restaurateur and award-winning chef Michael Mina invites guests on a captivating gastronomic journey at Orla, now open at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Drawing inspiration from Mina’s upbringing, the authentic essence of the Mediterranean’s lively markets and bazaars is reflected in each intriguing dish.

“Orla is a culmination of my culinary evolution, a fusion of personal recipes that echo the flavors and aromas of my childhood in Egypt. It encapsulates the warmth, charm and vibrant hospitality of Mediterranean culture that has shaped my life and career,” said Chef Mina. “I can’t wait for guests to experience a taste of what has influenced my life’s work.” 

Featuring a Greek-centric menu designed for shared exploration, Orla presents a tempting array of Hot and Cold Mezze, signature Grains & Pastas, and a wide selection of Fish Market delights such as the traditional Alexandria Fish Fry, Grilled Orange Swordfish and Salt-baked Sea Bream. Charcoal-Grilled Meats, including succulent Lamb Shank and Spice-Roasted Rohan Duck, offer authentic tastes of the region.

Interactive tableside experiences elevate the dynamic atmosphere, with Pickle and Bread Service welcoming guests and a Greek Frozen Yogurt sundae cart delivering a sweet finale highlighted by 24K golden thyme honey, toasted pistachios and a mountain of labneh frozen yogurt.

Complementing the cuisine is one of Las Vegas’ most extensive wine collections, curated by Mina Group’s Director of Wine Jeremy Shanker. With more than 1,600 labels, the list focuses on wineries from throughout the Mediterranean region including Lebanon, Santorini, Croatia, Sicily and Corsica, and features vintages dating back to as early as the 1940s. An inventive bar program that explores a variety of tantalizing flavor profiles, including citrus, herbs and spices, can be enjoyed with dinner or at the restaurant’s lively bar. 

Chuck Bowling, Mandalay Bay’s President and COO, said, “Orla’s opening adds another exciting dimension to Mandalay Bay’s New Wave, in which we’re introducing a variety of new amenities and attractions for our guests. Chef Mina’s exceptional talent has given birth to a stunning restaurant and we’re proud to continue our successful relationship with the talented Mina team.”

A Taste of the Menu:

  • Za’atar Cured Wild King Salmon: The rich taste of salmon is heightened by Za’atar, a distinctive Middle Eastern Spice. The dish features warm pita, pickled red onion and lemon tzatziki.
  • Charcoal Grilled Octopus: Orla’s classic grilled octopus is served with ful medames, cardamon schug and poached egg.
  • Oven-Roasted Red Snapper: A savory dish crisped to perfection, the red snapper is beautifully presented with preserved tomato and stewed fennel.
  • Kebab Platter: A middle eastern favorite, Orla’s kebabs feature a variety of skewers, including Chicken ‘oyster,’ kofta and filet served with tangerine labneh and smoked eggplant dip.

Cocktails, Anyone? A glimpse at a few highlights:

  • Sorrento: Grey Goose Vodka, Cointreau, Hibiscus, Melon, Sevilla Orange, Lemon and Honey
  • Rio Spritz: Aperol, Elderflower, Passion Fruit, Prosecco and Fever Tree Soda
  • Niro’s Ghost: Tres Agave’s Reposado Tequila, Ruby Port, Lime, Pineapple and Pomegranate
  • Soul of Palermo: Mezcal, Lime, Cucumber, Prickly Pear and Sumac

The Backdrop:

Designed by New York-based firm Parts and Labor Design, Orla’s inviting, earthy ambiance is brought to life through intricate tile mosaics, a mix of white marble and dark wooden tables accented by stylish earth-tone chairs, and a spectacular tile floor sure to become a signature talking point of the space.

Upon entry, guests are greeted by a large statement bar featuring cracked tile and waxed three-dimensional plaster that weaves its way through the main dining space. The dining room, washed in neutrals of cream and white, is accented by hues of pink, blue, gold and orange—dynamic shades inspired by the myriad of colored spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns. Guest may dine under one of two large olive trees rising from the center of the dining room toward dramatic vaulted ceilings, while three massive woven chandeliers bring the ceiling down to human scale, creating a moody and intimate atmosphere.

Additionally, Orla boasts a semi-private dining room called The Odyssey, which can seat up to 22 guests and be configured several ways to accommodate a variety of groups or parties.

Orla, located on Mandalay Bay’s restaurant row, is open daily. Dinner is served 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.; cocktails and light bites are served at the bar until 11 p.m.  Reservations can be made by visiting Mandalay Bay online or at 702.632.9400.

ABOUT MANDALAY BAY

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is set on 120 lush acres featuring Mandalay Bay Beach, a tropical pool paradise with real sand. The Michelob ULTRA Arena, award-winning restaurants, exhilarating entertainment, unique shopping, Shark Reef Aquarium and the 2-million-square-foot convention center combine to make Mandalay Bay a captivating Las Vegas resort destination. The resort offers three distinct hotel experiences: Mandalay Bay with 3,211 luxurious rooms and suites reflecting a modern tropical ambiance; Four Seasons Hotel, a AAA Five Diamond hotel offering 424 rooms and suites; and the luxury all-suite Delano Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay is operated by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit mandalaybay.com, call toll free at (877) 632-7800, or find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.