Las Vegas changed in 2017 when the NHL's Golden Knights arrived as the city's first major professional sports team. With the new hockey franchise came an air of hometown pride and a new type of fandom not previously seen in the desert oasis known for attracting convention attendees and gamers. Now, the city's first NFL team, the soon-to-arrive Raiders, promises to take local sports to a whole new level. Allegiant Stadium, opening west of Mandalay Bay this coming August, will be a domed, 65,000-seat, state-of-the-art venue not far from the bustle of the Strip. But the NFL excitement is set to begin even before the facility opens its doors.
In April, the city is going to demonstrate what football looks like in Vegas when it hosts the 85th annual NFL Draft - and all of the related celebrations and performances. A main stage will be constructed alongside the brand-new Caesars Forum conference center to showcase three days of live draft selections, as well as daily performances by headlining acts. Interactive NFL experiences, autograph sessions and additional performances will take place in an adjacent area. Teams will make their draft selections from inside Caesars Forum, and a special red-carpet floating stage on the water amidst the Fountains of Bellagio will host the event's kickoff festivities.
The event promises to be a high-profile example of the latest glitz and glamour Las Vegas has to offer; meanwhile, the city's myriad venues continue to prepare for meetings of all sizes.
Read all the latest updates and venue details on the Las Vegas destination guide at NorthstarMeetingsGroup.com.