Christmas in Las Vegas is very different from Christmas across most of America. For one, there is little to no hope of waking up to the white stuff blanketing the palm trees (although it has snowed near the end of the month before). Two, unlike most of the country, which shuts down for the holiday, Las Vegas is nearly fully-functioning. At least in the heart of the tourist areas.

If you were thinking about taking advantage of cheap flights to Sin City, then Christmas is the time to do it.

There’s something magical about being in Las Vegas this time of year. It isn’t just the twinkling lights lit on the decidedly un-Christmas looking things (like the palm trees). Hotels on The Strip get decked out. If you want a good example of holiday spirit, look no further than the Bellagio Conservatory which has its infamous holiday display in December.

Venetian just unveiled its holiday Winter in Venice seasonal event, complete with ice skating rink on-property. And, if you want light displays, there’s Ethel M’s and the Magical Forest, quick rides into the ‘burbs for some gorgeous festive creations using lights.

But, there’s more. Don’t feel like cooking? Don’t worry. Nearly all of the restaurants housed in the resorts (and some not, too) offer special Christmas menus. While reservations are likely required, the restaurants do all of the heavy lifting, leaving you to simply enjoy the holiday meal with friends and family.

Need a last minute gift? No problem. The shopping centers, like Forum inside Caesars, are open on Christmas Day. Yes, they will be crowded since most tourists tend to flock there on the holiday, but there are plenty of deals to be had.

And, while there are plenty of people coming here for Christmas, it isn’t as many as for New Year’s Eve. Plus, it’s a more subdued crowd. Hotels are significantly cheaper during Christmas then the following week, too.

“Entrance at Venetian,” Flickr photo credit: Dan4th