Fremont Street Experience Celebrates 30 Years of Shaping Las Vegas Into the Ultimate Entertainment Destination with a Grand Anniversary Event

Published on December 16, 2025

Fremont Street Experience marked its 30th anniversary with a grand celebration, showcasing how the iconic downtown Las Vegas hub has played a pivotal role in transforming the city into a global entertainment powerhouse. The anniversary event highlighted the journey from its humble beginnings in 1995 to its current status as a must-visit destination for tourists seeking vibrant nightlife and immersive experiences.

Fremont Street Experience, the iconic downtown Las Vegas entertainment hub, celebrated its 30th anniversary on Sunday, December 14, marking three decades of transforming the heart of Las Vegas. The milestone event was a vibrant celebration of Fremont Street Experience’s journey since its debut in 1995, which helped shape modern Las Vegas into the entertainment hotspot it is today.

The night kicked off with an exciting panel discussion that brought together visionaries who played pivotal roles in the creation of Fremont Street Experience. The panel was moderated by KKLZ 96.3FM morning host Shawn Tempesta, who guided the conversation with insights into the challenges and triumphs faced during the development of the area. This engaging discussion highlighted the significance of the redevelopment project and the people behind it.

Jan Jones Blackhurst, former mayor of Las Vegas, took center stage as one of the panelists. She was instrumental in the revitalization project that brought the Fremont Street Experience to life. Her leadership and vision helped transform what was once a struggling part of the city into a thriving pedestrian entertainment zone. Under her guidance, the area became a major attraction, boosting tourism and bringing new vibrancy to the downtown area.

Barry Shier, the former CEO of Golden Nugget Las Vegas, also shared his experience as a key figure in the project’s design and development. His role in shaping the project alongside other leaders has left a lasting legacy on the city’s entertainment offerings. Similarly, Don Snyder, the first president and CEO of Fremont Street Experience, reflected on how the pedestrian mall and The Canopy™ were pivotal in reshaping the area and bringing Las Vegas’ famed energy to the streets.

Other notable figures included Steve Hill, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, who spoke about his role in championing downtown initiatives. Hill’s efforts in supporting projects like the Neon City Festival have reinforced downtown’s growing stature as a cultural hub. Also contributing to the event’s success were Jerry Turk, who helped launch Fremont Street Experience in 1995, and Will Baker, the current interim CEO and senior vice president of operations, who oversees the day-to-day management and the implementation of major projects. Dana Reynolds, vice president of marketing, was also part of the panel, discussing how innovation and enhanced guest engagement continue to fuel Fremont Street Experience’s evolution.

The evening’s celebrations didn’t stop at the panel discussion. In true Las Vegas fashion, the event featured festive holiday activities, starting with the lighting of a Menorah led by Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley and the Rabbi of Chabad of Southern Nevada. This ceremony was a significant moment for the local community, symbolizing unity and cultural diversity. The celebration continued with choir performances that filled the air with the sounds of the season, warming the hearts of everyone in attendance.

The centerpiece of the night’s festivities was the grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a much-anticipated event that lit up The Canopy™ and officially marked the beginning of the holiday season. Jessica Rosado, the host of KTNV TV 13’s The Morning Blend, had the honor of leading this heartwarming moment. The lights on The Canopy™ dazzled, as thousands of visitors gathered below, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

In addition to the tree lighting, the event also marked the launch of the Neon Nights Holiday Lights Village at 3rd Street, near the Fremont Hotel & Casino. This enchanting holiday village brought even more holiday cheer to the celebrations, with breathtaking light displays and a Santa meet-and-greet. The village quickly became a hit, offering locals and tourists alike the chance to experience a holiday wonderland in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. The Neon Nights Holiday Lights Village will remain open nightly from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. until December 19, providing a festive destination for families and holiday-goers.

Fremont Street Experience celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand event, commemorating its transformation of downtown Las Vegas into a top-tier entertainment hub. Since its debut in 1995, the area has been at the heart of the city’s revitalization, drawing millions of visitors with its dynamic atmosphere and unique attractions. The anniversary event reflected on three decades of innovation, bringing together the visionaries who helped shape this iconic part of Las Vegas.

The Fremont Street Experience remains a cornerstone of downtown Las Vegas, blending rich history with modern attractions. Over the years, it has continued to innovate and expand its offerings, drawing millions of visitors each year. From the dazzling light shows on The Canopy™ to the wide array of dining, entertainment, and shopping options, Fremont Street Experience has solidified its place as one of Las Vegas’ most iconic landmarks. As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, the Fremont Street Experience is poised to continue being an integral part of the Las Vegas landscape, providing unforgettable experiences for both locals and tourists for many years to come.