Beyond the Glitz and Glamour: Inside Chinese New Year at MGM
Chinese New Year has become a significant event in Las Vegas, attracting millions of visitors from around the world with its vibrant festivals, colorful chinesenewyear-moreways.com parades, and non-stop entertainment. For casinos like MGM Resorts, this festive period is an opportunity to offer unique experiences that blend tradition, excitement, and luxury. We sat down with the team behind MGM’s Chinese New Year celebrations to learn more about their preparations, challenges, and secrets.
A Year-Long Process
Preparations for Chinese New Year at MGM begin months in advance. The team works tirelessly to create an immersive experience that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of China while offering something new and innovative each year. According to our interview with Yvonne Monaghan, Senior Vice President of Entertainment at MGM Resorts International, "Our team is dedicated to crafting a unique experience that honors the traditions of Chinese New Year while showcasing the best of Las Vegas."
The process starts with researching and selecting a theme for the year’s celebrations. This year’s theme was inspired by the Year of the Rabbit, which symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, and longevity. The team then scoured China for talented performers, artisans, and entertainers who could bring this vision to life.
A World-Class Production
The result of months of planning and preparation is a spectacular celebration that showcases the very best of Chinese culture. This year’s festivities featured traditional lion dances, dragon performances, and acrobatic displays, all set against the backdrop of MGM’s stunning Grand Avenue. The event was attended by thousands of guests who came to experience the vibrant colors, sounds, and aromas of China.
Behind the scenes, a team of skilled technicians worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the production was flawless. From lighting and sound design to costumes and set construction, no detail was overlooked in creating an immersive environment that transported guests to the streets of Shanghai.
The Role of Tradition
While innovation is at the heart of MGM’s Chinese New Year celebrations, tradition plays a significant role in their planning process. According to Michelle Zhang, Director of Cultural Programming at MGM Resorts International, "We strive to honor the traditions and customs of Chinese New Year while incorporating new ideas and themes each year." This balance between old and new has proven successful, attracting visitors from across the globe who are eager to experience a unique blend of culture and entertainment.
One way that MGM incorporates tradition is through its partnership with local Chinese cultural organizations. The casino works closely with these groups to ensure that every aspect of the celebration, from performances to decorations, accurately reflects Chinese heritage. This commitment to authenticity has earned MGM a reputation as one of the most culturally sensitive and respectful casinos in Las Vegas.
A Celebration for All
While MGM’s Chinese New Year celebrations are undoubtedly spectacular, they also serve an important purpose: bringing people together. According to Monaghan, "Our goal is not only to entertain but also to create an inclusive atmosphere where guests from all backgrounds can come together and celebrate the spirit of Chinese New Year." This sentiment was reflected in the diverse crowd that attended this year’s festivities, which included visitors from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other countries around the world.
As the clock struck midnight on the eve of Chinese New Year, MGM’s Grand Avenue erupted into a riot of color and sound. The air was filled with fireworks, lanterns, and incense as thousands of guests gathered to mark the beginning of the new year. It was a moment that captured the essence of Chinese culture: community, tradition, and the promise of good fortune.
A New Era for MGM
As we concluded our interview with the team behind MGM’s Chinese New Year celebrations, it became clear that this event has become an integral part of the casino’s DNA. According to Zhang, "Chinese New Year has evolved into a signature experience at MGM Resorts, one that showcases our commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement." As Las Vegas continues to evolve as a global destination, MGM’s Chinese New Year celebrations will undoubtedly remain a highlight of the city’s entertainment calendar.
In the world of casinos, few events command the same level of excitement and attention as Chinese New Year. For MGM Resorts, this festive period is an opportunity to showcase their commitment to cultural diversity, community engagement, and innovation. As we look back on this year’s celebrations, it’s clear that the team behind MGM’s Chinese New Year has truly outdone themselves in creating an unforgettable experience for guests from around the world.