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This season, we find ourselves surrounded by festive cheer that invites us to come together to celebrate life, family, friends, and the freedom to enjoy what truly matters. As another year draws to a close, it’s the perfect moment to savor these joyful times, reflect on life’s preciousness, and make space for happiness alongside those we hold dear.

Reflecting on the year, we each embraced a word that carried meaning for us. Camilla’s was Rise—a tribute to the subtle, steady moments throughout 2025 that called for trust, release, and new beginnings. Rising isn’t always graceful; it often feels messy and uncertain as we let go of what was familiar in order to become something more authentic. Each challenge and encounter contributed to her growth into a truer self.
Paige’s word, Spark, captures the lively energy that ignites joy, connection, and celebration. It’s the light in holiday eyes, the warmth of each shared smile, and the flicker of hope and gratitude that sustains us during this meaningful season. This spark reminds us how fleeting life truly is and emphasizes the importance of cherishing each radiant moment.
These two expressions connect naturally with this month’s ‘giving’ theme—giving is more than an act; it’s a way of living. When we give with open hearts, we elevate ourselves and those around us. This spirit of generosity shines brightest during the holidays, nurturing community and kindness alike.
We hope you embrace this season fully—celebrate your journey, honor your growth, and look ahead with hope. Life is brief, and the moments filled with light and love are treasures to be held close. May you find peace, joy, and meaning surrounded by loved ones and in the quiet magic these holidays bring.
With warmth and appreciation,
CAMILLA SOLÉA RAE, PUBLISHER PAIGE CANDEE, EDITOR @SOUTHVEGASCITYLIFESTYLE
Photo credit: Casey Jade
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Camilla Soléa Rae | camilla.solearae@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Heather Turk, Vivian Greggory, Eve Bushman, Paige Candee, Sydney Kate Lewis, Andres Molina, Jennifer Florendo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Micheal Yenor, Cashman Photo, Essie Rose
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler










Transform















1: 2025 Rise Up Gala supported the Tyler Robinson Foundation co-founded by Imagine Dragons. 2: The Tyler Robinson Foundation provides critical financial aid to families of children with cancer. 3: Imagine Dragons energized the crowd with a powerful, emotional live performance. 4: Dozens of children danced joyfully alongside Imagine Dragons’ frontman Dan Reynolds. 5: The event raised hope and support for pediatric cancer families. 6: Ken Jeong and Joel McHale hosted, adding humor and heart to the evening. 7: The gala exceeded $2 million in
cause.







8: GiGi’s Playhouse “I Have a Voice” Gala was held at the Palms Casino Resort. 9: Guests gathered to raise funds for free, purposeful programs serving individuals with Down syndrome and their families. 10: Dr. Mark Nunes received the Impact Champion Award for his compassion and leadership in pediatric care. 11: The gala raised more than $200,000 for GiGi’s Playhouse. 12: Attendees bid generously during a spirited live auction and celebrated the charity’s mission. 13: Cirque-style performers and a nine-piece band dazzled guests throughout the evening. 14: Community leaders and families united to amplify voices and create lasting opportunities for all.






















Ace Law Group reached an $18.5 million settlement in a premises liability case involving a client seriously injured due to dangerous conditions on the property. The resolution provided long-term resources for medical care and recovery. The firm stated that the outcome underscored its ongoing dedication to guiding and advocating for individuals affected by negligence, ensuring their experiences contributed to broader awareness of accountability and safety standards in property management.

The iconic arcade game Skee-Ball is making a nostalgic holiday comeback as a handcrafted home arcade game made in the USA. Available at skeeball.com in several models, the game features authentic arcade components, official sounds, colorful digital displays, and multiple game modes supporting up to six players. Its blend of classic design and modern craftsmanship offers a unique gift option for game lovers, families, and collectors seeking to revive retro fun at home.
Photography by Skee-Ball

NoBe Wellness Medspa presents #DearMeProject, a year-long interactive art exhibit honoring the female form and celebrating beauty, growth, and authenticity. Featuring works by artists Bex Nikols and Janel Raihl, the exhibit invites guests to write messages of forgiveness, gratitude, or encouragement to their past or future selves. Each note becomes part of an evolving installation—a collective expression of self-love and transformation that will continue to grow throughout the year.
Photography by Russell Park







The 3rd annual Viva St. Jude raised more than $1 million to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s mission to cure childhood cancer. The weekend included a sold-out golf tournament at The Arroyo Golf Club and a poker tournament at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa with prizes including a WSOP Main Event seat. The Taste of Viva St. Jude featured fashion, dining, patient stories, a live auction, and a concert with rock legends, spotlighting ongoing research and treatment progress.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department will host Operation Holiday Cheer, its annual toy drive supporting St. Jude’s Ranch for
Children. Community members are invited on December 6th and 7th to drop off new, unwrapped toys at the Centennial Walmart and Sam’s Club, meet officers, and help bring holiday cheer. Now in its eighth year, the event relies on local generosity to provide gifts for abused, neglected, homeless, and exploited youth, ensuring a brighter holiday season for the most vulnerable.

Family, friends, and community members gathered at Leone Café to celebrate the life of Sergeant Justin Lamar Williams, whose service and spirit deeply impacted Las Vegas. The evening featured music, tributes, and stories honoring his commitment to law enforcement and mentorship. Country singer Sam Riddle performed a special tribute in his honor, underscoring the community’s unity in remembering an officer whose compassion and courage continue to inspire the valley.






















M Resort Spa Casino announced the forthcoming addition of a second hotel tower, set to expand local hospitality and nearly double total room capacity in Henderson. Residents will see tangible neighborhood impacts, with more meeting space, new jobs, and enhanced amenities designed for community and business events. The project also brings Emeril Lagasse’s Meril restaurant, expected to introduce a fresh dining experience and new social opportunities to locals when doors open.











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At Ace Law Group, we fight tirelessly for those injured in accidents across Las Vegas. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to securing fair settlements and ensuring your rights are protected. No matter your injury, we provide personalized legal support every step of the way.


It doesn’t matter where you live, holiday cheer can be found throughout all of Southern Nevada.
Since the holiday season is all about giving, it should come as no surprise that one of Las Vegas’ most beloved holiday attractions allows guests make merry memories while supporting those in need. Running select evenings through December 31, the Magical Forest at Opportunity Village invites guests to stroll through its colorfully lit forest, play mini golf, ride its Forest Express Passenger Train, visit with Santa and enjoy a variety of other jolly activities while their admission fee goes to help more than 3,000 Southern Nevadans with disabilities. magicalforest.org
Festive attractions sure to get Southern Nevadans in the holiday spirit
ARTICLE BY HEATHER TURK

“THE NUTCRACKER”
Following a 12-year run with its previous version of “The Nutcracker,” Nevada Ballet Theatre will dance back into The Smith Center in downtown Las Vegas select dates December 13 through 28 to perform “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.” Not only will the new show feature the legendary ballet choreographer’s renowned choreography, but it will also be accompanied by set pieces and costumes that reflect the Art Deco spirit of the 1930s. Audiences can
follow young Marie Stahlbaum and her Nutcracker Price as they journey through The Land of Sweets, led by revered characters like The Sugarplum Fairy and divertissements like Hot Chocolate. State-ofthe-art technology will further illuminate Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, creating an all-new holiday spectacle that is both innovative and timeless. nevadaballet.org/performances/ george-balanchines-the-nutcracker
“State-of-the-art technology will further illuminate Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, creating an all-new holiday spectacle that is both innovative and timeless.”


Tivoli Village is getting into the holiday spirit with complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides available Thursday through Saturday, December 4 through 20, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitors to the Summerlin retail center can also purchase some unique presents for those on their holiday gift-giving list at LV Craft Shows’ Nutcracker Night Market. Happening December 4, 11, and 18 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the free event not only features a variety of vendors selling original crafts but also live entertainment and festive lights. tivolivillagelv.com
Those thirsting for some holiday spirits of the liquid kind will want to head on to Green Valley Ranch Resort in Henderson for its fifth Winter at the Terrace event. Open through December 27, the pop-up lounge transforms the property’s Backyard Terrace into an inviting winter wonderland where guests can cozy up next to a fire pit or inside an igloo and savor some festive food and beverages, like a drink from the hot chocolate cart. greenvalleyranch.com



One of the area’s most popular holiday attractions is located in Summerlin—Enchant Christmas. Illuminating the Las Vegas Ballpark for its fourth season select evenings through December 28, the world’s largest Christmas
light maze returns with an all-new theme this year: Night of the Nutcrackers. Guests can enjoy more than 10 acres of holiday magic, including an ice-skating trail and festive entertainment. enchantchristmas.com/las-vegas

A Southern Nevada favorite is returning this holiday season with some extra holiday magic. Nevada’s largest holiday drive-thru light show, Glittering Lights, illuminates the Las Vegas Motor Speedway through January 4, 2026, with 6 million LED lights along its newly expanded 3-mile course. Now in its 25th year, the attraction can be enjoyed from the comfort of one’s car or, during select nights, on an open-air Santa Tram complete with festive décor, fun games and photos with Santa. glitteringlights.vegas

More holiday merriment can be found just steps away from Enchant Christmas at the Downtown Summerlin Holiday Parade. Taking place every Friday and Saturday through December 20 at 6:00 p.m., the free event runs along Park Centre Drive and features lively holiday music, snow,
dancers, nearly 100 local youth performers and an appearance from Santa. Downtown Summerlin also has its own outdoor skating rink—The Rock Rink—open through January 2026 that visitors can enjoy for a nominal fee. summerlin.com

















EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.




SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.

THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!
FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.



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Give the gift of calm and self-care while restoring peace and balance amid the holiday hustle
ARTICLE BY VIVIAN GREGGORY
As the holiday season approaches, along with the endless lists, gatherings, and glittering expectations, there’s one gift that rises above the tangle of wrapping paper and ribbons: the gift of pause and quiet. In a time defined by giving to others, taking a pause to care for yourself, or encouraging

“The gift of pause and quiet can be one of the most meaningful presents of this season.”
loved ones to do the same, can be one of the most meaningful presents of this season.
The holiday season often ushers in joy, yet it can also bring an overwhelming whirlwind of activity, exhaustion and stress. Between bustling shopping errands, family gatherings, and year-end deadlines between work and home, taking a moment to gift yourself, or a loved one a luxurious massage or facial skincare, offers a rare and precious opportunity to unwind, recharge and refocus.
Few understand that balance better than Mr. Michael and Ms. Ronnee Oehler, owners of MassageLuXe Spa Las Vegas, the city’s first and only location of the premium massage and skincare franchise brand. Their spa provides a diverse range of massage modalities, skincare facials, body treatments, and cosmetic waxing services,
all delivered by state-licensed massage therapists and aestheticians dedicated to tailored client care. They emphasize how massages and skincare serve as both a stress reliever and a meaningful gift.
“The holiday season is here, bringing joyful opportunities of appointments, seasonal promotions and product discounts,” the owners note. Their cornerstone holiday special includes a buyone-get-one offer: purchase one standard massage or standard facial skincare treatment and receive a second one free. “Gift cards are always a confident stocking stuffer,” they add, highlighting the ease and thoughtfulness of sharing the gift of wellness.
Self-care, they stress, is “more in-depth and valuable than many of us may realize.” Being healthy inside directly influences health on the outside, with the body, mind, and spirit requiring balanced


attention. “Proper massage is absolutely a positive addition that can develop a regular important portion of our daily life. Skincare is what is needed for healthy skin.”
Mr. and Ms. Oehler want to create “a valuable corner for each of you to look forward to; that one hour (or more) to not only relax, refresh and refocus, but to give yourself what is needed.”
Among the spa’s offerings is the HydroLuXe massage chair, available at no extra cost for clients and members, delivering a soothing full-body massage that complements the hands-on services. This chair offers a unique way to reduce tension quickly, ideal for those balancing multiple holiday commitments.
Experts agree that regular massage therapy is a powerful way to reduce stress hormones, improve circulation, and boost immune health—critical benefits during this colder weather season and the holiday rush. Beyond physical relief, massage can nurture emotional well-being, promote mental clarity, and provide a sense of peace that can ripple through how people enjoy and engage during holiday festivities.
Gifting massage or skincare treatments invites others to rest and restore amidst a season often characterized by relentless activity. With the Oehlers’ focus on creating a sanctuary located at The Shoppes at Blue Diamond Ranch, MassageLuXe Spa offers a retreat where body and mind find harmony.
This year, instead of adding another item to the shopping list, consider the gift of wellness. A massage or facial is not only a thoughtful present but also a meaningful promise to pause, replenish, and celebrate balance.













During winter, drinkers turn more toward brown spirits – let’s turn to Nevada’s Frey Ranch
Did you know that as the weather cools, many people trade icy vodka and gin cocktails for “warming” spirits such as whiskey—including single malt scotch, blended whiskey, bourbon, and rye? Of course, you will still enjoy these whiskeys on the rock, rocks or in a cocktail – adding cold to them, but only slightly diminishing warm notes like spice, vanilla, dried fruits, caramel, and heat.
Nevada-based distillery Frey Ranch makes a FourGrain Straight Bourbon that is their most popular expression in Las Vegas, and you can find Frey Ranch at Khoury’s, Total Wine, Lee’s Liquor and more. And when you visit these liquor stores look for the stores’ personal barrel picks that say the store’s name right on the label, those bottles don’t last long on the shelves. Frey Ranch distillery crafts award-winning whiskeys from high-quality grains 100 percent grown on their farm and distillery in Northern Nevada, just east
• 1 ¼ oz. of Frey Ranch Bourbon
• Fresh lime wedges squeezed
• 8 fresh blackberries
• Large mint leaves
• ½ oz. simple syrup
• 1 oz. club soda
of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is one of only a few true “estate distilleries” in the U.S. The Frey family also has a long legacy of farming in this region that dates back to 1854.
Colby Frey, Frey Ranch CEO, co-founder, and Whiskey Farmer, started the distillery in 2006 with his wife, co-founder and Chief Storyteller Ashley. Colby truly does it all as he grows, malts, distills, and ages 100 percent of his whiskey grains on the more than 2,500acre Frey Ranch farm. Experimenting with the corn, wheat, barley, and rye that Colby cultivates has become a hallmark of the brand.
Now, as you start to crave those brown spirits, naturally due to the change in season or because I’ve put this thought in your head, let’s move onto what cocktails you might like to try before you settle in by your fireplace at home. For these recipes I reached back out to Frey Ranch.
Muddle lime, blackberries, and mint together. Stir in Frey Ranch Bourbon and simple syrup. Top with club soda, garnish with mint leaves, blackberries, and serve over crushed ice.
“As the weather cools, many opt for warming spirits.”
ARTICLE BY EVE BUSHMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FREY RANCH DISTILLERY

• 8 oz. Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• Zest 1 large orange
• 4 oz. or ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup 100% cranberry juice
• 3-4 dashes orange bitters
• 1 blood orange or regular orange, sliced
• Candied rosemary
To make the cranberry syrup: In a medium pot, bring 1/2 cup water, the maple syrup, and cranberries to a boil over high heat. Boil 5 minutes or until the cranberries begin to burst, then remove from the heat. Stir in the orange zest. If your syrup thickens too quickly, just add additional water to thin. Let it cool. If desired, strain out the cranberries.
In a punch bowl, combine the cranberry syrup, bourbon, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and orange bitters. Stir to combine, chill until ready to serve. Serve over ice. Garnish with an orange slice and candied rosemary, if desired.

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy this easy, make-ahead recipe to simplify your holiday breakfast; it is sure to impress your guests.
Casserole Ingredients:
• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes
• 3 cups mixed berries
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs at room temperature
• 2 cups half and half at room temperature
• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.






DECEMBER 1ST – 28TH
2025 Enchant Christmas
Las Vegas Ballpark | 5:00 PM
The magic of the holidays returns to Las Vegas Ballpark until December 29. Enchant Christmas is your perfect backdrop for a romantic night with twinkling lights, a massive story-driven light maze, ice skating, snow slides, photo ops, and festive wonder. Book your holiday experience at enchantchristmas.com
DECEMBER 1ST – JANUARY 4TH
Lights
Las Vegas Motor Speedway | 5:00 PM
For more than 15 years, Glittering Lights has transformed the Las Vegas Motor Speedway into a drive-thru holiday wonderland. From millions of lights to themed holiday displays, every mile of the experience is different. A portion of every ticket purchase goes back to local charities. Buy tickets at glitteringlightslasvegas.com
DECEMBER 4TH
Nevada Conservatory Theatre: A Christmas Carol 1941
Judy Bayley Theatre | 7:30 PM
Charles Dickens’ timeless holiday classic returns to Nevada Conservatory Theatre in a production sure to melt your heart. Set in Chicago 1941, this jazz infused version follows the tightfisted Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Buy tickets at unlv.edu.
DECEMBER 6TH
21st Annual Las Vegas Great Santa Run
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center | 8:00 AM
Join thousands of fellow Santas with a 5K or one mile walk to raise money for Opportunity Village. The races start and end at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, with live music, food, drinks, and more. This year, registration includes a choice between a traditional red Santa suit or an OV blue Santa suit. To register, visit lvsantarun.com.
DECEMBER 11TH
Cocktails & True Tales - Oral History Happy Hour
Composers Room Show Lounge | 5:30 PM
NPF’s Cocktails & True Tales series continues with a winter holiday–themed walk down memory lane. The Composers Room Show Lounge will host as the panel of guest speakers share memories of celebrating the holidays amid the glitter of Vegas’s yesteryear. To purchase tickets and to learn more, visit nevadapreservation.org.
DECEMBER 21ST
Second Annual Night in Vienna
Clark County Library | 3:00 PM
Vegas City Opera and Las Vegas Sinfonietta invite you to waltz through The Merry Widow and other sparkling Viennese delights. Slip into your winter best—this Winter Formal is your chance to shine brighter than a crystal chandelier. Tickets available at vegascityopera.org.
Written by Belanie Dishong, Founder - Live At Choice

“One Christmas, I joined a group visiting a nursing home with small gifts and carols to share.
In one room, someone quietly said, “Oh, don’t worry about her… she’s Deaf and hasn’t spoken for months.”
For a moment, I almost walked past, but something in me said no. I knelt beside her, gently placed my cheek against hers, and sang Silent Night...
That moment changed my heart, and my mindset, forever. Because what came after was the most magnificent

Because when you shift your mindset, you see life differently. differently. (Learn the secret of gifting.)










