Chances are good that if you’ve been to Las Vegas, you’ve been on a bender or two. But you’ve probably never experienced anything like the Big Blues Bender Music Festival.
This unique event features rocking tunes and luxury accommodations under one roof. However, you’ll have to act fast if you want tickets.
Today, we’re diving into this unusual experience to bring you all the details.
Let’s rock!
About the Big Blues Bender Music Festival in Las Vegas
In early September, Sin City comes alive with some of the hottest names in blues. For four days, over 40 artists blast melodic tunes across the grounds of a single resort. On average, they offer 22 sets daily across five indoor and outdoor stages.
The choice of venue really sets this festival apart from similar events. Instead of fighting traffic and standing under the blazing sun as hoards of fans shuffle through the gates, you’ll simply take the elevator down from your room. The party begins as soon as the doors open. In fact, their tagline reads, “Everything, An Elevator Ride Away!”
Another distinguishing feature of Las Vegas’ Big Blues Bender is its intimate crowd size. Organizers sell a limited number of tickets each year to cultivate a harmonious environment. Getting lost in a sea of people is a fundamental part of the experience at some shows. But that’s not the case here.
You might think of this event as a music festival for grown-ups. After all, it’s only open for folks 21 years and up. But whether you’re 21 or 91, you’ll find much to love about it.
Sets start at noon each day, with final shows wrapping up in the wee hours of the morning. Daily activities include yoga classes and costume contests. Each day features a different theme so you can show off your creativity.
Artists attend discussion panels so you can pick their brains about all things musical. Get your gear signed at one of the autograph sessions. You might even run into your favorite stars at the blackjack table.
Where Is the Big Blues Bender in Las Vegas?
In its earlier days, the festival occurred at the Plaza and, later, the Hard Rock. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino has hosted the Big Blues Bender for the last several years.
Just one block from the legendary Las Vegas Strip, this luxury venue has it all. Premier on-site dining includes Edge Steakhouse, Benihana, and Fresco Italiano, so you can fuel up before hitting the festivities.
The pool and hot tub sit on a five-acre deck overlooking the city lights. At the spa, you can relax and enjoy a massage with vanilla-scented oils or a body treatment with a jasmine-infused scrub.
Of course, the Westgate Casino is under the same roof as the resort. If you’re feeling lucky, you just might win big playing craps, poker, or trying your hand at the slots.
On an average night here, you might catch a cabaret show or a performance by world-famous stars like Barry Manilow and Frankie Valli.
Back in your room, you won’t want for anything. Flat-screen TVs, deluxe bedding, and blackout curtains come standard. You might have views of the Las Vegas Country Club golf course or more lively sights of the Strip out your windows.
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How Can You Get Tickets for the Big Blues Bender in Vegas?
Because organizers offer a limited amount of tickets, it can be tricky to score passes to the Las Vegas Bender. They often sell out right after going on sale in November, ten months before the event.
However, you can pre-book your ticket for the following year’s festival on their website. A $250 deposit reserves your spot and puts you first in line once sales go live.
Ticket packages range from a single-occupancy room to villas and poolside lanais. So, if you’re going with friends, you’ll only need one pre-book per package.
They offer eight different bundles, as well as plenty of add-ons. You can purchase the Big Daddy Baller upgrade if you want to go all out. This all-inclusive option gives you free food and drinks throughout the resort, access to private cabanas by the pool, and a bunch of swag to take home.
Other Unique Things To Do Near the Bender in Las Vegas
While it’s possible to spend four days and nights at the Big Blues Bender without ever leaving the resort, you might want to explore some of Las Vegas’ other attractions. Here are a few options to consider while you’re in town.
Check Out the Iconic Sand Dollar Lounge
Many famous musicians have graced the stage at the Sand Dollar Lounge. Mick Jagger, BB King, and Muddy Waters are just a few notable faces.
The bar opened its doors in 1976. Other than a couple of years in the early 2000s, they’ve been rocking ever since. You can catch live entertainment any night of the week. Their highly curated cocktail menu puts others to shame, and their pizza has raving reviews.
Today, there are two locations in Sin City. Sand Dollar Lounge Downtown is in the Plaza Hotel & Casino, where the Big Blues Bender once took place.
Tour the Neon Museum and Boneyard
Vegas wouldn’t be Vegas without its flashing neon lights. But when those signs are retired, they have to go somewhere. And that final resting place is the Boneyard.
Here, you can stroll through acres of Sin City history. While you can explore at your own pace, we suggest joining a guided tour to learn more about the pieces in their unique collection.
Pro Tip: Check out the Neon Museum website for a calendar of upcoming events.
Play Vintage Games at the Pinball Hall of Fame
If the jingles and dings of an arcade game take you back to being a kid, you won’t want to miss the Pinball Hall of Fame. They claim to hold the world’s most extensive collection of these classic machines.
And better yet, they’re fully operational. You might think of this establishment as an interactive museum. Take your pick of over 200 games and see if you can beat the high score!
Explore More: 5 Best Day Trips Near Sinful Las Vegas
Best Places To Stay Near the Bender in Las Vegas
Most people attending Las Vegas’ Big Blues Bender stay on-site at the resort. But you’ll find plenty of other options if you purchase a music-only pass. Here are three top picks.
The RV Park at Circus Circus
Sin City isn’t exactly known for its RV parks. So, if you’re going to camp here, you may as well pick a spot right on the Strip.
The Circus Circus RV Park offers full hookups with 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp electrical service. You’ll even have access to a dump station and laundry facilities. But the real perk is your proximity to the party. You’ll be within walking distance of Westgate, so you don’t have to drive after a long night of live music.
Prefer to stay off the strip? Check out these 7 Excellent RV Parks Around Las Vegas, Nevada (with Video).
Ahern Luxury Boutique Hotel
If you’re looking for a spot with a few more amenities, consider booking a room at Ahern Luxury Boutique Hotel. They have multiple restaurants where you can dine on steak or authentic Italian fare.
It’s non-smoking and has no casino, so you won’t deal with a lot of foot traffic. However, it’s right off the Strip, so you’ll be close to the action.
This modern stay is about a five-minute drive from the Big Blues Bender.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Paradise
If you can’t score a room package for the Las Vegas Bender, try booking a spot at the Hilton. It’s directly next door to the Westgate, so you’ll be a short walk away from the biggest names in blues.
They offer a wide range of rooms and suites to meet your needs. Grab a drink at the lounge or pick up lunch from the Marketplace and enjoy an al fresco meal by the pool.
Plan the details with Fodor’s Las Vegas!
Is a Road Trip to the Big Blues Bender in Las Vegas Worth It?
The next time you go on a bender in Las Vegas, make it the bluesy kind. For four days, world-class musicians will take the stage around the clock. You might even end up lounging next to them at the pool. And you won’t even have to leave the resort unless you want to.
We suggest planning ahead and pre-booking your tickets for the Big Blues Bender as soon as possible. You don’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind event!
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