CHAMPS Las Vegas
December 2026
December 10–13, 2026
Las Vegas Convention Center — 3150 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
The winter edition of North America's premier counterculture trade show — the final major buying event of the year for smoke shops, dispensaries, and glass retailers. Four days at LVCC with the full holiday Strip as the evening backdrop. No pool parties in December — this is pure nightclub season. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30, with its grand reopening on NYE December 31; EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club at Night) is the Wynn campus nightlife option during CHAMPS week. Thursday through Sunday, the Strip operates at holiday capacity.
Dates
Dec 10–13, 2026
Format
4 Days · Thu–Sun
Attendance
15,000+ buyers
Key Difference
No Pool Parties · Holiday Strip
About the Show
The Year-End Counterculture Buying Event
CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas December 2026 is the winter edition of North America's largest B2B counterculture wholesale marketplace — the final major buying event of the calendar year for independent smoke shop owners, dispensary purchasing managers, glass retailers, and cannabis accessory distributors. The December show at the Las Vegas Convention Center draws 15,000+ industry professionals for four days of wholesale sourcing, brand discovery, and the Glass Games live glass-blowing competition. Running Thursday through Sunday, December 10–13, it is the only CHAMPS Las Vegas edition that spans a full Thursday-to-Sunday format — delivering two full weekend nights alongside the convention schedule.
The December timing carries specific commercial logic for the counterculture wholesale industry. Black Friday retail cycles, holiday gift-set purchasing, and year-end inventory restocking all converge on December as the most commercially significant buying window of the year. Smoke shop owners and dispensary buyers who attend the summer CHAMPS in August often return in December specifically to source holiday product configurations, release-season glass, and Q4 compliance packaging that isn't available at the spring or summer editions. The December show reliably draws a higher per-buyer order volume than either the spring or summer editions, making it the show with the highest commercial urgency for the industry's wholesale buyer base.
Las Vegas in December is a fundamentally different experience from the August summer show. There are no pool parties or dayclubs — all seasonal outdoor pool venues are closed. What December offers instead is the full holiday Strip at peak indoor nightclub programming: OMNIA, Hakkasan, TAO, Marquee, LIV, Zouk, and EBC at Night all running full holiday-season programming Thursday through Sunday. (Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30, 2026 — its grand reopening is NYE December 31.) The CHAMPS demographic — a counterculture, music-forward crowd that shares strong stylistic alignment with Las Vegas's electronic music and live DJ culture — hits the nightclub circuit with the same energy in December as in August, with the added momentum of the holiday season's elevated programming and premium headliner bookings at every major venue.
The 2026 December show also arrives at a pivotal commercial moment for the cannabis accessories and counterculture retail industry: state-level regulatory changes in multiple markets went into effect between August and December, new product categories — particularly functional wellness and hemp-derived cannabinoids — accelerated through Q3 retail, and the glass art market is experiencing a resurgence of collector interest that makes the December Glass Games competition more commercially significant than in recent prior years. Buyers attending both the August and December CHAMPS editions in 2026 report that the product mix at the winter show is materially different from what exhibited in August — December is not a repeat of the summer show with a colder backdrop, but a distinct buying event with its own category priorities and commercial dynamics.
Buying Floor Strategy
Q4 Holiday Buying at CHAMPS December 2026
December CHAMPS operates under a different commercial logic than the spring and summer editions. Buyers who attend the August show source for the fall retail cycle — product discovery, brand introductions, forward-looking inventory commitments. December buyers arrive with specific mandates: restock depleted Q4 inventory, source holiday gift configurations unavailable in summer assortments, lock in 2027 pre-release pricing, and complete year-end compliance purchasing before state regulatory deadlines. The December show reliably draws a higher per-buyer order volume than either the spring or summer editions — it is the buying event with the highest commercial urgency for the wholesale buyer base.
Year-End Closeouts & Q4 Clearance
Brands attending December CHAMPS typically bring discontinued SKUs, excess Q4 inventory, and end-of-year pricing programs unavailable at earlier shows. Buyers building stock for January's retail slowdown find December CHAMPS pricing structures markedly more aggressive — suppliers motivated to close the fiscal year reduce minimums and increase per-unit discounts on slow-moving SKUs. Glass artists and specialty manufacturers use December specifically to move limited-edition holiday pieces that command premium retail pricing through the end of the calendar year.
2027 Pre-Orders & Spring Production Commitments
Several major vape hardware manufacturers and cannabis accessories brands debut 2027 product lines at December CHAMPS as a pre-release window before spring 2027 production runs open to the full market. Buyers who commit at December secure pre-order pricing — typically 8–15% below spring introductory pricing — and priority allocation for limited-run SKUs. Smoke shop owners and dispensary buyers targeting high-demand 2027 categories should arrive with a defined pre-order budget separate from Q4 restocking funds and schedule vendor appointments Thursday morning before walk-in traffic peaks.
Holiday Gift Set Sourcing
The December show floor features holiday-configured product bundles unavailable at summer editions. CBD and hemp brands run holiday gift set programming designed for Q4 retail that the spring show does not carry. Smoke shop buyers sourcing last-minute holiday inventory — gift-ready packaging, seasonal accessories, holiday-edition limited glass — find December CHAMPS uniquely positioned for this purchase category. The window between December 13 close and Christmas Eve is 11 days; buyers prioritize items with fulfillment commitments that can reach retail by December 20–22 at the latest.
Compliance Packaging & Year-End Regulatory Updates
State cannabis compliance deadlines frequently land in December and January, driving urgent packaging and labeling sourcing at the winter show. Compliance packaging suppliers, label printers, and child-resistant container manufacturers attend CHAMPS December with current product lines reflecting regulatory changes since the August show. Buyers from markets with active compliance transitions should prioritize the compliance packaging section on Thursday opening day — exhibitor availability is highest in the morning before the weekend convention traffic peaks. Missing a December compliance purchase can mean a January sourcing gap that affects retail operations.
Veteran December Buyer Pattern
Experienced December CHAMPS buyers split the four-day floor schedule: Thursday and Friday for targeted purchasing in primary categories (glass, cannabis accessories, compliance packaging), Saturday for vendor relationship meetings and 2027 pre-order negotiations, Sunday for new exhibitor discovery and final closeout deals before the floor closes at 5 PM. The Thursday-to-Sunday format — unlike the August show's Wednesday-to-Friday structure — gives Saturday as a mid-show strategic pause rather than a closing-day rush. This pacing reduces the floor fatigue that compresses August's three-day window and allows more deliberate sourcing decisions on the higher-value pre-order commitments.
Summer vs. December
How the December Show Differs from CHAMPS August 2026
December 2026 Edition
- • 4 days: Thursday December 10 – Sunday December 13
- • No pool parties or dayclubs (all closed seasonally)
- • XS Nightclub closed through Dec 30 — EBC at Night is the Wynn option
- • Holiday season programming — elevated headliner bookings
- • 40–52°F at night — rideshare over walking
- • Saturday December 12 = highest-energy night
August 2026 Edition
- • 3 days: Wednesday August 26 – Friday August 28
- • Pool parties and dayclubs at peak summer operation
- • XS Nightclub closed (August–December 30, 2026 renovation — reopening NYE Dec 31)
- • Late-summer programming including Subtronics at EBC
- • 100–110°F during the day — outdoor dayclubs viable
- • Friday August 28 = closing night peak
Schedule
CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026 — Show Hours
Thursday, December 10
Opening day. Full floor access. Glass Games competition begins. Tuesday night pre-show arrivals already on the Strip.
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, December 11
Peak buying day. All exhibitor categories at full capacity. Friday night is the first peak nightclub night of the CHAMPS window.
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, December 12
Day 3 on the floor. Saturday night is the highest-energy night of the show — every major nightclub at full December holiday capacity.
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, December 13
Closing day. Floor closes Sunday afternoon. Buyers still in town for Sunday evening have access to the full Strip.
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
CHAMPS is free to attend for qualified trade buyers. Valid government-issued ID (21+) and business credentials required at badge pickup. Pre-register at champstradeshows.com for express access — walk-up registration on opening Thursday runs slower than pre-registered badge pickup.
Getting In
Registration & Badge Access
Who Qualifies
CHAMPS is a trade-only event for qualified cannabis and lifestyle industry professionals. Qualifying categories include dispensary buyers and purchasing managers, smoke shop and head shop owners, vape retail buyers, CBD and hemp product retailers, distributor and wholesaler representatives, licensed brand executives, and glass artists. Attendees must be 21 or older — no exceptions. Consumer registration is not available for any CHAMPS edition.
Pre-Register at champstradeshows.com
Registration is free for qualified buyers. Pre-registration generates a QR code for express badge pickup at LVCC, avoiding walk-up queues. Badge pickup opens before the first day. Bring valid government-issued ID and trade credentials — a state business license, dispensary license, or retailer account number satisfies the buyer verification requirement at CHAMPS December badge counters. Beware third-party services soliciting hotel rooms on behalf of CHAMPS — always use the official travel link at champstradeshows.com only.
Official Hotel Partners
CHAMPS typically lists Resorts World Las Vegas and Tuscany Suites & Casino as official partner hotels. Resorts World is directly connected to LVCC via covered walkway — the only major hotel that requires no outdoor exposure to reach the convention floor. December rates at LVCC-adjacent properties rise significantly versus summer: book as early as possible for December. Tuscany Suites provides complimentary shuttle to LVCC with lower off-Strip pricing.
Age & ID Requirements
CHAMPS is strictly 21+. Government-issued photo ID is required at badge pickup and may be spot-checked at the LVCC entrance. International attendees should verify passport validity before travel. The 21+ requirement applies to all show floor access across all four days. Las Vegas nightclub entry requires valid 21+ ID for all guests, checked at the door regardless of country of origin — digital copies on your phone are accepted as backup at most venues.
Show Floor
What's on the Floor — December Edition
The December CHAMPS floor emphasizes year-end buying cycles: holiday gift configurations, Q4 compliance updates, and Glass Games competition pieces. Six categories across four days.
Cannabis Products & Accessories
Flower, concentrates, edibles, pre-rolls, topicals, and tinctures across all price points — the December show is the final wholesale window for dispensaries and cannabis retailers to lock in year-end inventory. Black Friday and holiday retail cycles make December the most commercially significant CHAMPS buying window of the calendar year.
Smoke Shop Merchandise
Rolling papers, lighters, pipes, bongs, waterpipes, grinders, storage containers, and branded paraphernalia. The December show is a critical restocking event for smoke shop owners ahead of the new year — Q4 retail patterns make the winter CHAMPS buy more inventory-focused than the spring and summer shows.
Vape & Electronic Devices
Disposable vapes, refillable pod systems, cartridge hardware, batteries, and vaporizers across nicotine, CBD, and cannabis categories. The December show captures final-quarter hardware purchasing cycles for retailers, with new-year launches and limited editions from brands motivated to clear Q4 floors.
CBD, Delta-8 & Functional Wellness
Hemp-derived cannabinoids, adaptogens, nootropics, and wellness products. The December timing aligns with gift-set purchasing patterns — smoke shops and dispensaries source gift-season product configurations at the winter CHAMPS that are not typically ordered at the spring or summer shows.
Packaging, Branding & Compliance
Compliant cannabis packaging, child-resistant containers, custom labels, point-of-sale displays, and brand identity services. Year-end compliance deadlines in multiple states drive December purchasing for cannabis packaging and labeling updates.
Glass, Art & Collectibles
Functional glass art, heady pieces, borosilicate waterpipes, and limited-edition collectibles. The Glass Games live competition runs across all four days with finals Sunday. The December show carries a notable holiday collectibles section not seen in summer — glass artists release year-end limited editions specifically for the winter show.
Glass Games Competition
Glass Games at CHAMPS December — The Holiday Edition
Glass Games is CHAMPS's signature live glass-blowing competition, running on the show floor across all four days with finals and awards on closing Sunday. The December edition carries specific characteristics that distinguish it from the spring and summer versions: the holiday collectibles emphasis means competing artists release year-end limited editions during the competition itself, with pieces available for purchase immediately after each round. The December Glass Games has historically drawn the highest-value glass transactions of any CHAMPS edition — collectors and specialty retailers attend specifically for the December holiday glass market that the spring and summer shows don't replicate.
Dec 10–12 — Competition Rounds
Live glass-blowing heats on the show floor. Competing artists work in real time with convention-floor audiences observing. Holiday-edition limited pieces produced during competition rounds are available for immediate purchase at vendor tables adjacent to the glass stage.
Sunday Dec 13 — Finals & Awards
Finals and awards ceremony runs on closing Sunday afternoon before the 5 PM floor close. The Sunday Glass Games finale is the show's primary spectator event — plan floor schedules around the finals time, published in the official CHAMPS show guide on opening Thursday.
Holiday Collectibles Market
December Glass Games releases holiday-edition limited glass not available at spring or summer shows. Smoke shop buyers sourcing high-margin collectibles for year-end retail should budget time Thursday through Friday specifically to visit the glass competition section before the most desirable limited editions sell through.
Glass Games access is included with your CHAMPS trade badge. No separate ticket or additional registration is required.
Insider Advice
How to Navigate CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026
Eight strategies specific to the December edition — accounting for holiday crowds, no pool parties, XS's renovation closure through December 30, and the four-day Thursday-to-Sunday format.
Arrive Wednesday December 9 — Nightclub Access Before Floor Opens
The CHAMPS floor opens Thursday at 11 AM, but early arrivals Wednesday evening get the full nightclub window without any floor schedule pressure the next morning. Wednesday is a historically lighter nightclub night — easier guest list access, shorter door lines, and lower cover relative to Friday and Saturday at the same venues. Industry relationships forged in a relaxed Wednesday nightclub setting often outperform rushed conversations on the trade show floor.
December Is Nightclub-Only — No Pool Parties
Unlike the CHAMPS summer edition in August, there are no outdoor pool parties or dayclubs operating in December. Las Vegas dayclubs (EBC, AYU, OMNIA Dayclub, Palm Tree, LIV Beach) run seasonally and are closed throughout December. The CHAMPS winter window is a pure nightclub experience — all nightlife activity happens indoors at full-capacity Strip clubs. This is a significant difference from the summer show for returning attendees.
XS Nightclub Grand Reopening Is NYE Dec 31 — Still Closed During CHAMPS
XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas is undergoing a full renovation through December 30, 2026, with its grand reopening set for NYE December 31 — the most anticipated Las Vegas nightclub event of the year. XS is closed throughout the CHAMPS December show (Dec 10–13). The Wynn campus nightlife option during CHAMPS week is EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club operating as an outdoor nightclub). December temperatures run 40–52°F evenings — warm attire recommended for EBC at Night's outdoor format.
The Thursday-to-Sunday Format Gives You Three Weekend Nights
CHAMPS December runs Thursday December 10 through Sunday December 13 — four days that include Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Unlike the August show's Wednesday-to-Friday format, the December show delivers two peak weekend nights (Friday and Saturday) within the convention window. Saturday December 12 in particular runs full holiday programming at every major Strip nightclub — the strongest nightlife night of the year.
Book Friday and Saturday Early — December Weekends Sell Out Fast
December is holiday season on the Las Vegas Strip. Weekend nightclub events — particularly Saturday December 12 — fill to capacity significantly faster than any comparable August weekend. Guest list submissions for Friday and Saturday nights during CHAMPS December week should be made before Wednesday December 9 at the latest. Walk-up lines at the door run 30–60 minutes longer in December than during the summer show.
Dress Code in December Means Actual Cold-Weather Clothes
Las Vegas December nights reach 40–52°F, dropping sharply after 10 PM. Dress code compliance still applies — athletic shorts, cargo pants, and running shoes remain prohibited — but venues expect winter outfits. A fitted coat, blazer, or leather jacket over nightclub attire is accepted at all major Strip venues without issue. Leaving your coat at the hotel is a mistake in December; rideshare drop-off to the nightclub door is strongly recommended over any outdoor walking.
Holiday Programming Runs Alongside CHAMPS All Week
December is the beginning of Las Vegas's holiday entertainment season. Nightclubs program Christmas and holiday-themed events on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout December. Expect elevated production, holiday headliner bookings, and some pop-up ticketed events that run alongside the standard resident DJ schedule. Check venue websites and ticket platforms for any ticketed Friday December 11 and Saturday December 12 events as CHAMPS week approaches.
Resorts World Remains the Best LVCC Hotel — Same Logic, Winter Version
The Resorts World Las Vegas covered walkway to LVCC West Hall applies in all seasons. In December, with overnight temperatures below 50°F, the covered connection makes Resorts World even more practical than in August — you never need to step outdoors to reach the convention floor. Zouk Nightclub is 5 minutes from your room. Fontainebleau's LIV is a 10-minute walk south. Book early: CHAMPS December is one of the few major trade shows that runs in a month when Strip hotel occupancy is rising toward the New Year's Eve peak.
Lock In NYE Tickets and XS Grand Reopening Before December 20
CHAMPS December 10–13 is an ideal time to purchase New Year's Eve tickets in person at Strip venue box offices. The XS Nightclub grand reopening event on December 31 is the most anticipated Las Vegas nightclub event of the holiday season — tickets will sell through before December 20. Every major nightclub's NYE event sells out in the December 15–25 window. Buying NYE tickets during CHAMPS week, in person at the Wynn box office or through venue websites, secures access before the December retail rush depletes availability.
Dec 9–13 Picks
CHAMPS December Nightlife — Night by Night
Venue picks for each night of CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026. No dayclubs. Weeknight cover Wed–Thu: $0–25 on guest list. Friday and Saturday December holiday programming: book early, December weekend guest list fills faster than summer.
Pre-registration badge pickup opens at LVCC (check champstradeshows.com for times)
TAO Nightclub
TAO Wednesdays
10:30 PM · Nightclub · The Venetian
Marquee Nightclub
Lowkey in the Library
10:00 PM · Nightclub · The Cosmopolitan
Hakkasan Nightclub
R&Bae Wednesdays
10:30 PM · Nightclub · MGM Grand
Wednesday pre-show night is the lowest-pressure evening of the CHAMPS window — full nightclub access with the lightest crowd of the entire week. No floor schedule until 11 AM Thursday allows late nights without consequence. TAO Wednesdays is the strongest consistent Wednesday programming on the Strip, with dinner-to-nightclub access within The Venetian. Hakkasan's R&Bae Wednesdays offers a hip-hop and R&B alternative to the EDM-forward circuit for buyers who prefer that programming. Guest list on Wednesday is the easiest night of the week with the most flexibility.
Convention floor open 11 AM – 6 PM · Glass Games begin
Zouk Nightclub
Thursday programming
10:00 PM · Nightclub · Resorts World
OMNIA Nightclub
OMNIA Thursday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · Caesars Palace
TAO Nightclub
TAO Thursdays
10:30 PM · Nightclub · The Venetian
LIV Nightclub
LIV Thursday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · Fontainebleau
Opening day convention fatigue hits hardest on Thursday, making proximity the primary nightclub selection criterion. Zouk at Resorts World is the rational choice — 5 minutes on foot via the covered walkway from LVCC, no rideshare required, and a December nightclub environment that runs through 4 AM. For buyers who want to venture further: OMNIA's 75,000 sq ft Thursday programming at Caesars runs full resident DJ sets. LIV at Fontainebleau is 0.5 miles south of LVCC — a quick rideshare on a cold December night.
Convention floor open 11 AM – 6 PM
EBC at Night
EBC at Night Friday
10:30 PM · Nightclub (Outdoor) · Wynn Las Vegas
OMNIA Nightclub
OMNIA Friday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · Caesars Palace
LIV Nightclub
LIV Friday
11:00 PM · Nightclub · Fontainebleau
Hakkasan Nightclub
Hakkasan Friday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · MGM Grand
Friday is the first peak nightclub night of CHAMPS December week. EBC at Night at Wynn Las Vegas is the Wynn campus nightlife option — XS Nightclub remains under renovation through December 30, 2026 and reopens NYE Dec 31. OMNIA, LIV, and Hakkasan all run Friday headliner programming. Book Friday guest list before Thursday — December holiday weekends fill faster than any summer comparison period.
Convention floor open 11 AM – 6 PM
Hakkasan Nightclub
Hakkasan Saturday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · MGM Grand
OMNIA Nightclub
OMNIA Saturday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · Caesars Palace
Zouk Nightclub
Zouk Saturday
10:00 PM · Nightclub · Resorts World
EBC at Night
EBC at Night Saturday
10:30 PM · Nightclub (Outdoor) · Wynn Las Vegas
Saturday December 12 is the peak nightlife night of the entire CHAMPS winter window — holiday programming at maximum capacity at every major venue. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30 (reopening NYE Dec 31); EBC at Night is the Wynn campus option. The combination of 15,000 CHAMPS buyers on the Strip plus the December holiday crowd produces one of the highest-energy Las Vegas Saturdays of the year. Guest list for Saturday must be secured by Thursday at the latest — walk-up capacity at major venues on December Saturdays during holiday season is significantly more limited than summer weekends.
Convention floor closes 5 PM · Last buying day
Zouk Nightclub
Sunday programming
10:00 PM · Nightclub · Resorts World
TAO Nightclub
TAO Sunday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · The Venetian
Hakkasan Nightclub
Hakkasan Sunday
10:30 PM · Nightclub · MGM Grand
Sunday closing day ends an hour earlier (5 PM) than the Thursday-Saturday schedule, giving attendees an extra hour before the nightclub open. Sunday nightclub crowds in December are lighter than Friday and Saturday but still operate full programming. Zouk at Resorts World is the most practical Sunday option for buyers with early Monday flights — the covered walkway keeps the return walk to your room under 5 minutes regardless of 45°F December temperatures. TAO Sundays at The Venetian rounds out the weekend schedule.
December in Las Vegas
Las Vegas in December 2026 — Beyond the Convention Floor
CHAMPS December runs December 10–13 — exactly 18 to 21 days before New Year's Eve. The Strip in December operates in a specific state of elevated anticipation: NYE preparation is already active across every major nightclub and hotel property, programming is at or near peak holiday capacity, and the caliber of headliner bookings reflects the full January–December booking cycle converging on December as the payoff month. Las Vegas in December is the Las Vegas that knows it's about to host the largest New Year's Eve celebration in the United States — and the city runs on that energy from the first week of December onward.
For CHAMPS buyers who have historically attended only the summer show, the December version of Las Vegas is a distinct experience. Temperatures in the low-to-mid 40s after 10 PM mean the outdoor dayclub culture of August is completely absent — there are no pool parties, no EBC noon sessions, no AYU or Palm Tree Beach Club. What December offers instead is the full indoor nightclub experience at its seasonal peak. The entertainment infrastructure supporting 400,000 NYE visitors starts operating in earnest during the second week of December — exactly when CHAMPS runs. Every major nightclub is booking December programming at its highest-quality tier of the year.
XS Nightclub Grand Reopening — New Year's Eve December 31, 2026
XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas has been closed since August 1, 2026 for a comprehensive renovation — the most significant redesign of the venue in years. The grand reopening event is scheduled for New Year's Eve, December 31, 2026. This makes XS's return one of the most anticipated Las Vegas nightclub events of the year, with the formal reopening timed to the Strip's highest-demand night of the calendar. For CHAMPS buyers, the December 10–13 window provides the opportunity to secure NYE XS tickets in person at the Wynn box office before the online sell-out period that typically begins December 15–20 for high-demand NYE events. The XS grand reopening will draw significant advance interest from Las Vegas regulars — early ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
Metallica at the Sphere — December 2026 Residency
Metallica's Las Vegas Sphere residency includes December 2026 performance dates at MSG Sphere Las Vegas — the 160,000-square-foot immersive venue seating 17,500 on the east side of the Strip. December Metallica shows run at 8 PM, which does not conflict with CHAMPS floor hours (11 AM to 6 PM). The four-hour window between convention close and show start allows for hotel return, dinner, and a 10–15 minute rideshare to the Sphere from Resorts World or the Venetian. The Sphere–nightclub combination — Metallica at 8 PM followed by Zouk or OMNIA at 10:30 PM (note: XS Nightclub is closed for renovation through December 30) — is the most distinctive single-evening Las Vegas entertainment option available during CHAMPS December week. Advance tickets are required; purchase through the official MSG Sphere site before your Las Vegas departure.
Holiday Shows & Strip Residencies in December
December on the Las Vegas Strip activates the full entertainment ecosystem alongside nightclub programming. Residency artists at Allegiant Stadium, T-Mobile Arena, and Dolby Live at Park MGM run December dates — check venue calendars for performers during December 9–14 specifically. Cirque du Soleil productions at Bellagio (O), Aria (KÀ), and the MGM Grand run full December schedules; these are the most reliably available evening entertainment options alongside CHAMPS. The four-hour gap between convention floor close (6 PM) and nightclub open (10:30 PM) accommodates dinner plus a 90-minute show on any night of the week. Holiday production shows — seasonal programming unique to December — run at several major Strip properties and are worth checking for the specific Dec 10–13 window.
December Dining: The Strip at Its Seasonal Peak
December is widely considered the best dining month in Las Vegas. The tourist volume of the holiday season brings full kitchen staffing and peak-quality execution at every major Strip restaurant. Chef's tasting menus and reservation-only dining programs that are inaccessible during peak summer or convention periods open up in early December before the Christmas rush. The 5:00–9:00 PM dinner window after CHAMPS closes is optimal: restaurants operating at 80% capacity in early-to-mid December versus the 100%-plus booking pressure of the week between Christmas and New Year's. Wynn Las Vegas, Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and The Venetian run the densest concentration of Michelin-recognized restaurants within the CHAMPS-adjacent hotel corridor.
Where to Stay
Best Hotels for CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026
LVCC is at the north end of the Strip. December hotel rates rise as the holiday season approaches — book well in advance. Resorts World's covered walkway connection is more valuable in 45°F December weather than it is in August.
Resorts World Las Vegas
Official CHAMPS partner hotel. Covered walkway to LVCC — 5 min door-to-floor with zero outdoor exposure in December cold. Zouk Nightclub and AYU Dayclub (closed Dec) on-property. Three hotel brands (Hilton, Conrad, LXR). Book early: December rates rise fast.
Fontainebleau Las Vegas
0.5 miles south — 10 min walk (cold Dec nights), 5 min rideshare. LIV Nightclub on-property. Newest major Strip property, open since 2023. LIV runs Thursday through Sunday with holiday-season headliner programming.
Wynn & Encore Las Vegas
EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club at Night) is the on-property Wynn nightlife option during CHAMPS week. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30 — grand reopening is NYE December 31. 1.5 miles south, 5-min rideshare. No Encore Beach Club dayclubs in December (seasonal).
Caesars Palace
OMNIA Nightclub on-property — runs Thu–Sun year-round. OMNIA Dayclub closed Dec (seasonal). 12-minute rideshare from LVCC. Strong Thursday OMNIA programming is the optimal center-Strip option for buyers staying at Caesars.
The Venetian Resort
TAO Nightclub runs Wed–Sun. TAO Beach closed in December (seasonal). Dinner-to-nightclub experience in one building makes this the most convenient hotel for buyers who prioritize dining alongside nightlife access.
The Cosmopolitan
Marquee Nightclub on-property — the Library room is the easiest entry point for first-time Las Vegas nightclub visitors. Marquee Dayclub closed in December. 15 min rideshare from LVCC. Good option for center-Strip access.
MGM Grand
Hakkasan Nightclub on-property — runs Thu–Sun with holiday programming. Palm Tree Beach Club closed Dec (seasonal). Free tram connection to Mandalay Bay. 18 min rideshare from LVCC.
Bellagio
Holiday season at Bellagio is iconic — Conservatory botanical garden displays, Fountains at full operation. Best dining on the Strip year-round. No on-property nightclub; 12-min rideshare to OMNIA and Marquee. Ideal for buyers who prioritize fine dining.
Getting Around
Transportation for CHAMPS December Attendees
Las Vegas Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail has a dedicated LVCC station with service south to Harrah's/LINQ, Flamingo, Bally's/Paris, and MGM Grand. A single ride is $5, a 24-hour pass is $19. Monorail runs through midnight and later during December holiday season. The covered stations make it a winter-practical option to avoid outdoor rideshare waiting in 40–45°F December temperatures.
Rideshare in December — Cold Weather Factor
LVCC has designated rideshare pickup and dropoff on Convention Center Drive. December nights reach 40–45°F — rideshare to nightclub doors eliminates outdoor exposure entirely and is the recommended approach. Off-peak rideshare from LVCC to center-Strip runs $15–22. The 6 PM close and 10:30 PM nightclub open creates a 4-hour transition window with no rush. Budget extra time on Saturday December 12: holiday weekend rideshare surge pricing applies between 10–11:30 PM.
Walking from LVCC in December
Resorts World is directly walkable via covered connection (5 min, no outdoor exposure) — this remains the only fully practical walking option in December. Fontainebleau is 0.5 miles south (10–12 min outdoor walk). At 40–50°F overnight, outdoor walks of more than 5 minutes require a proper coat. Do not walk to center-Strip venues from LVCC in December without factoring in the cold and the 1.5+ mile distance.
Tuscany Suites Shuttle
Tuscany Suites & Casino (official CHAMPS off-Strip partner hotel) provides complimentary shuttle to LVCC. Off-Strip location offers lower rates than comparable Strip properties — the shuttle eliminates LVCC commute cost. In December, the shuttle is more valuable than in August: 2-mile rideshare to LVCC in cold weather is a real friction point that the shuttle removes entirely.
Las Vegas Nightclubs
Best Nightclubs During CHAMPS December Week
All major Las Vegas nightclubs operate Thursday through Sunday at full December holiday capacity. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30, 2026 — its grand reopening is NYE December 31. EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club at Night) is the Wynn campus option during CHAMPS week.
Zouk Nightclub
5 min from LVCC · Resorts World
OMNIA Nightclub
75,000 sq ft · Thu–Sun · Caesars
Hakkasan Nightclub
Fri–Sun · Holiday bookings · MGM
XS Nightclub
Closed through Dec 30 — reopening NYE Dec 31 · Wynn
TAO Nightclub
Wed–Sun · Dinner+club · Venetian
Marquee Nightclub
Wed–Sun · Library room · Cosmo
LIV Nightclub
Thu–Sun · 0.5 mi from LVCC · Fontainebleau
EBC at Night
Fri–Sat · Outdoor pool deck · Wynn
No Pool Parties in December
All Las Vegas outdoor dayclubs and pool parties — Encore Beach Club, AYU Dayclub, OMNIA Dayclub, Palm Tree Beach Club, LIV Beach, Marquee Dayclub — are closed for the December season. The CHAMPS December window is exclusively indoor nightclub programming. Nightclub guest list covers all four nights of the show.
Budget Planning
CHAMPS December 2026 — Pricing Guide
December Las Vegas pricing is structurally different from the August summer show in three specific ways: hotel rates run 10–25% higher due to holiday season demand, nightclub cover charges at peak weekend events carry a holiday premium above summer, and there are no dayclubs competing for entertainment spend — 100% of evening spend goes to nightclubs and dining. The practical result is a trip that runs modestly more expensive per night than August on the hotel side but equivalent or lower on nightlife per capita, since free guest list covers weeknight entry at the same rates as any other CHAMPS edition.
| Category | Wed–Thu (Weeknight) | Fri–Sat (Holiday Peak) |
|---|---|---|
| Nightclub GA (Men) | $0–25 on guest list | $60–120 walk-up; free on guest list |
| Nightclub GA (Women) | Free on guest list | Free on guest list (arrive before midnight) |
| Bottle Service Min (Zouk / OMNIA) | $600–1,200 | $1,500–3,000 |
| Bottle Service Min (EBC at Night / Hakkasan) | $800–1,500 | $2,000–5,000 |
| Strip Hotels (LVCC-adjacent) | $180–320/night | $250–500/night Fri–Sat |
| Off-Strip (Tuscany Suites) | $80–140/night | $100–180/night |
| Rideshare (LVCC → center Strip) | $15–22 each way | $20–35 (surge Thu–Sat 10–11 PM) |
Four-Day Budget Estimate
A realistic CHAMPS December budget runs $900–$1,600 per person for four nights at an LVCC-adjacent hotel plus four nights of nightlife on guest list. This covers hotel at $200–$300/night (Resorts World or Fontainebleau), rideshare or monorail each night, and one night of bottle service split across a group. Women with guest list access spend at the lower end; men on guest list similarly low. The primary budget driver is Saturday December 12 — holiday-premium pricing on bottles and walk-up cover if guest list is not secured in advance.
How December Compares to August CHAMPS
Hotel rates in December run 10–25% above the August CHAMPS show week, driven by holiday season demand and the approaching NYE pricing escalation. Nightclub weeknight pricing (Wednesday–Thursday) is equivalent between August and December — guest list is free both times. Friday and Saturday are where December becomes modestly more expensive: holiday programming commands a 15–25% premium on walk-up cover and bottle minimums versus a comparable August Saturday. No dayclubs means zero pool party spend — a line item that August CHAMPS attendees often carry at $40–$100 per person.
Gentlemen's Clubs
Strip Clubs Near LVCC During CHAMPS December
All major Las Vegas strip clubs operate year-round at full capacity — December is no exception. NoCoverVegas provides free entry and free limo service from LVCC-area hotels on all four nights of the show.
Four-Day Plan
CHAMPS December 2026 — Day-by-Day Buyer Itinerary
The Thursday-to-Sunday format gives experienced buyers a specific pacing advantage over the August Wednesday-to-Friday window. Four days allows deliberate separation of discovery buying, targeted purchasing, vendor relationship meetings, and new-exhibitor sweep — without compressing every objective into a three-day sprint.
Arrive Wednesday afternoon. Check in, eat a real meal, and hit the Strip by 10 PM. Wednesday is the lowest-pressure nightclub night of the CHAMPS window — TAO Wednesdays at The Venetian runs full programming. Hakkasan's R&Bae Wednesdays at MGM Grand is the hip-hop alternative. Both venues have broadly open guest list on Wednesday with no cover charge. Use Wednesday night to get oriented — venue proximity, rideshare patterns, December weather reality — before the floor opens Thursday morning. Early-to-bed on Wednesday (2 AM) is a defensible choice: Thursday is a full eight-hour buying day plus nightclub.
Floor opens 11 AM. Thursday is the discovery day: walk every aisle of the primary section for your buying category before making any purchases. Take photos of exhibitor materials and collect contact info. The most experienced CHAMPS buyers do not write purchase orders on Thursday — they use the day to build the targeted list that informs Friday's buying efficiency. Glass Games opens Thursday; the competition runs all four days with finals Sunday. Thursday evening: Zouk at Resorts World is the logical choice — 5 minutes via the LVCC covered walkway, no rideshare, no weather exposure. OMNIA Thursday at Caesars runs 75,000 sq ft of programming for buyers who want a higher-production Thursday option.
Friday is the highest-volume purchasing day for most CHAMPS buyers. Armed with Thursday's discovery list, work through targeted exhibitors in priority order: year-end closeouts first (deal availability shrinks as the weekend progresses), then Q4 compliance purchasing, then 2027 pre-orders. Vendor meeting density peaks Friday afternoon — exhibitor principals are most accessible between 2–4 PM before the floor energy shifts to closing-day operations. Friday evening is the first peak nightclub night: OMNIA, Hakkasan, and LIV all run peak Friday holiday programming. LIV Nightclub at Fontainebleau is 0.5 miles south for buyers staying at north Strip properties. EBC at Night at Wynn runs Friday programming as the Wynn campus option (note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30). Guest list for Friday must be secured before Thursday — December holiday weekends fill faster than summer.
Saturday is the best day for vendor relationship work and 2027 negotiation. With primary Q4 purchasing complete, Saturday on the floor is for partnership conversations — exclusivity discussions, next-year volume commitments, co-marketing proposals — that require time and a lower transaction pressure than Friday peak buying. New exhibitor discovery (any sections you missed Thursday–Friday) closes out the Saturday floor time before the 6 PM close. Saturday December 12 is the highest-energy nightclub night of the CHAMPS window: Hakkasan, OMNIA, Zouk, and EBC at Night all run full holiday programming simultaneously (XS Nightclub at Wynn remains closed through December 30, reopening NYE Dec 31). Book Saturday guest list by Thursday morning — December Saturday nightclub capacity fills faster than any summer comparison weekend.
The floor closes at 5 PM on Sunday — one hour earlier than the Thursday–Saturday schedule. Use Sunday morning for a final sweep: new exhibitors you noted but didn't reach, final closeout buying, and Glass Games finals (runs Sunday afternoon). Vendor availability is highest Sunday morning before exhibitors begin breaking down displays after 3 PM. For buyers with Monday departures, Sunday evening is an accessible nightclub night — Zouk and TAO both run Sunday programming with lighter crowds than Friday or Saturday. Rideshare to McCarran airport from the Strip runs 20–25 minutes; most Monday morning flights work with a Sunday 2 AM nightclub close and 6 AM departure.
December on the Strip
Las Vegas in December 2026
December brings fewer conventions than summer but full holiday nightlife activation. The two weeks after CHAMPS December closing (Dec 13 onward) escalate rapidly toward New Year's Eve — the strongest nightclub weekend of the year.
CHAMPS Summer 2026
Aug 26–28 · LVCC · Summer edition guide
Black Hat USA 2026
Aug 1–6 · Mandalay Bay · Cybersecurity
All Las Vegas Conventions
Browse every major convention nightlife guide
August Nightclubs Guide
Summer nightclub programming reference
All Las Vegas Nightclubs
Full directory with guest list access
Las Vegas Strip Clubs
All venues with free entry and limo
Bottle Service Guide
Pricing, minimums, and table access
FAQ
CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
When is CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas December 2026 and where is it held?
CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas December 2026 runs Thursday, December 10 through Sunday, December 13, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Show hours are 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Thursday through Saturday and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on closing Sunday. LVCC is located at the north end of the Las Vegas Strip — directly adjacent to Resorts World Las Vegas and approximately 0.5 miles from Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
Are there pool parties during CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026?
No — there are no pool parties or dayclubs operating in December. Las Vegas dayclubs (Encore Beach Club, AYU Dayclub, OMNIA Dayclub, Palm Tree Beach Club, LIV Beach, Marquee Dayclub) run seasonally and are all closed in December. The CHAMPS December window is a pure nightclub experience. Major indoor nightclubs operating throughout the show: Zouk, OMNIA, Hakkasan, TAO, Marquee, LIV, and EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club at Night).
What nightclubs are best for CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026 attendees?
Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World Las Vegas is the closest major nightclub to LVCC — a 5-minute walk via covered connection. OMNIA at Caesars Palace runs Thursday through Sunday programming across 75,000 sq ft. Hakkasan at MGM Grand runs Friday through Sunday with consistent headliner bookings. LIV Nightclub at Fontainebleau is 0.5 miles from LVCC and runs Thursday through Sunday. TAO Nightclub at The Venetian runs Wednesday through Sunday. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn is closed for renovation through December 30, 2026 — its grand reopening is NYE December 31. EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club at Night) is the Wynn campus nightlife option during CHAMPS week.
Is XS Nightclub open during CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026?
No — XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas is closed for a full renovation through December 30, 2026. XS reopens on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2026 for its 18th anniversary grand reopening event — one of the most anticipated Las Vegas nightclub events of the year. CHAMPS December runs December 10–13, during the renovation closure. The Wynn campus nightlife option for CHAMPS week is EBC at Night (Encore Beach Club operating as an outdoor nightclub). Lock in your NYE XS tickets before December 20 while you're in Las Vegas for CHAMPS.
How do I register for CHAMPS Trade Show Las Vegas December 2026?
Registration for CHAMPS Las Vegas December is free for qualified trade attendees, including dispensary buyers, smoke shop owners, vape shop buyers, cannabis retailers, glass distributors, and industry professionals. Attendees must be 21 or older — CHAMPS is strictly 21+. Pre-register at champstradeshows.com to receive an express badge pickup QR code. Valid government-issued ID and business credentials are required at badge pickup. Walk-up registration is available at LVCC but significantly slower than pre-registered access on high-traffic opening Thursday.
What is the dress code for Las Vegas nightclubs during CHAMPS December 2026?
Standard Las Vegas upscale nightclub dress code applies regardless of the convention demographic or December weather. No cargo shorts, no athletic shorts, no running shoes, no baseball caps. December weather (40–52°F at night) means you need winter clothes — a fitted coat, blazer, or leather jacket over nightclub attire is accepted at all Strip venues. Fitted jeans or trousers and clean dress shoes or fashion sneakers pass without issue. Do not leave your coat at the hotel in December — rideshare to the nightclub door eliminates outdoor exposure entirely.
What are the best hotels near LVCC during CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026?
Resorts World Las Vegas is the closest hotel — directly connected to LVCC via covered walkway. Its positioning is more valuable in December than in summer: no outdoor exposure walking to the convention floor at 7 AM or 11 AM in 45°F weather. Fontainebleau (0.5 miles south) has LIV Nightclub on-property. Wynn Las Vegas (EBC at Night is the Wynn nightlife option; XS reopens NYE Dec 31) is 1.5 miles south — 5-minute rideshare. Tuscany Suites & Casino (official CHAMPS partner, off-Strip) provides a complimentary shuttle with lower nightly rates.
What is the Glass Games competition at CHAMPS December?
Glass Games is CHAMPS' live glass-blowing competition, running on the show floor across all four days with finals and awards on closing Sunday. It functions as the show's primary spectator event — glassblowers compete in real time producing functional pieces on the convention floor. Glass Games is included with CHAMPS trade badge access; no separate ticket is required. The December edition carries a holiday collectibles emphasis with limited-edition glass pieces released specifically for the winter show.
Is there transportation from LVCC to Strip nightclubs during CHAMPS December week?
Yes. The Las Vegas Monorail has a dedicated LVCC station with service south to Harrah's/LINQ, Flamingo, Bally's/Paris, and MGM Grand — $5 per ride. Monorail hours extend into the late evening during holiday season. Rideshare from LVCC to center-Strip runs $15–22. December nights drop below 50°F after 10 PM — rideshare to the nightclub door is strongly recommended over outdoor walking to the Strip. Resorts World is the exception: the covered walkway makes it fully walkable in any December weather.
What is the advantage of going to Las Vegas clubs during CHAMPS December week?
Thursday and Wednesday nights during CHAMPS December qualify for weeknight guest list pricing — $0–30 cover versus $60–100+ on Saturday during holiday season. Free nightclub guest list through NoCoverVegas eliminates cover on weeknights entirely. Saturday December 12 is peak holiday season — the strongest programming night of the CHAMPS window, with full venue capacity and headliner bookings at every major Strip nightclub. December 2026 nightclubs hit holiday season peak just as CHAMPS brings 15,000 industry professionals to the city.
Is Metallica playing at the Sphere during CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026?
Metallica's Las Vegas Sphere residency runs through December 2026 with select performance dates. The Sphere is located on the east end of the Strip, approximately 10–15 minutes by rideshare from LVCC and the major CHAMPS-adjacent hotels. The 17,500-seat venue's December Metallica dates do not conflict with CHAMPS convention hours (11 AM to 6 PM) — shows typically begin at 8 PM, leaving a comfortable window after the show floor closes. Check the official MSG Sphere website for confirmed December 2026 performance dates and advance ticketing. Sphere tickets sell out significantly in advance; purchase before your Las Vegas departure to guarantee access. The Sphere–nightclub combination — Metallica at 8 PM, then Zouk or OMNIA at 10:30 PM — is the most distinctive single-night Las Vegas entertainment stack available during CHAMPS December week. Note: XS Nightclub at Wynn reopens NYE Dec 31 after renovation — not available during the CHAMPS show dates.
What is happening in Las Vegas on New Year's Eve 2026 — should I stay after CHAMPS?
New Year's Eve 2026 in Las Vegas falls on December 31 — exactly 18 days after CHAMPS December closes on December 13. The Strip's NYE celebration draws 400,000 people annually, making it the largest New Year's Eve event in the United States. For CHAMPS buyers, the 2026 NYE carries a specific anchor: XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas has its grand reopening event on December 31 — the formal capstone to its fall 2026 renovation. Every major nightclub — OMNIA, Hakkasan, Zouk, TAO, LIV, Marquee — runs a ticketed NYE event with premium pricing. NYE hotel rates on the Strip start at $400–$700 per night for standard rooms; book immediately after CHAMPS if you plan to return. Nightclub tickets run $150–$500 for general access and $400–$1,500 or more for hosted tables, with the highest-demand events selling out in early to mid December. The CHAMPS trip and the NYE trip are typically 18 days apart — too far to combine in a single stay for most buyers, but the CHAMPS week is an ideal opportunity to secure NYE tickets in person at venue box offices before the December 20–30 online sell-out window.
Las Vegas Nightlife — CHAMPS December Week Quick Links
Nightclubs
Strip Clubs
Hotels
Nightclub Access — CHAMPS Week
What the Guest List Covers
Guest list access covers Wednesday through Sunday during CHAMPS December 2026. No cover on weeknights; reduced or waived cover on peak nights. Door details texted to you by 6 PM on your night out.
TAO, Marquee, Hakkasan — lightest crowds of the week. Best for relationship-building without floor-schedule pressure the next morning.
Zouk at Resorts World is a 5-minute walk from LVCC. Weeknight guest list, no cover required.
EBC at Night and OMNIA Friday programming. Holiday headliners at every major venue. (XS closed through Dec 30 — reopening NYE.)
Highest-energy night of the CHAMPS window. Every major Strip nightclub at full December holiday capacity — submit guest list before Thursday.
Free Guest List — CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026
Get On the List — Dec 10–13
Free nightclub entry for all four nights of CHAMPS Las Vegas December 2026. Wednesday and Thursday are weeknights — lower cover, easier guest list, smaller crowds. Friday and Saturday are December holiday peak — OMNIA, Hakkasan, EBC at Night, LIV, and Zouk at full holiday programming (XS Nightclub closes for renovation through Dec 30, reopening NYE Dec 31). We text you venue details and door info by 6 PM on your night out.