Vegas celebrates 70th anniversary as wedding capital of the world

Las Vegas celebrated its 70th Anniversary as The Wedding Capital of the World on Sunday, September 3. 

Over the weekend, more than 300 couples renewed their vows at Caesars Palace. The event was attended by hundreds of couples, their families, and dignitaries. 

The anniversary celebration began in the morning with a brunch in the Milano Ballroom with a beautiful cake as the centerpiece. Clark County Clerk Lynn Marie Goya organized the event and was recognized by attendees for raising the profile of weddings in Las Vegas at a national and international level. 

Goya said the wedding industry brings in about $2.5 billion per year to Clark County, employs 18,000 people, and provides about $88 million in annual tax revenue.

Weddings are so crucial to the county’s bottom line that Clark county commissioners have officially named September as the Wedding Month.

Clark County Commissioner Tick Segerblom shared his personal wedding story of good luck and a long lasting marriage on Sunday. 

“I’m from Boulder City. My father was the Justice of the Peace there, so he married me 44 years ago,” Segerblom said. “Just know that if you get married in Clark County, it should last a long time, so be careful. Two years ago, Elvis married my son.” 

The crowd cheered him with applause. 

Sen. Jacky Rosen’s Regional Representative, Eric Cardona, provided a certificate recognizing Goya’s leadership. Gov. Joe Lombardo’s office and local municipalities, such as Las Vegas City Councilwoman Olivia Díaz, also presented her certificates. 

The event ended with a Vegas musical production called “Las Vegas, Will You Marry Me.” It included performances by Dennis Bono, The Bronx Wanderers, Bob Anderson, The Righteous Brothers, and many more. 

A silent auction also took place, with proceeds going to the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth.