Professional party-goers assembled en masse Sunday at Bellagio for the fourth annual Las Vegas Nighties, when the city's club-related businesses compete for plaques and bragging rights in nine categories, decided by popular vote.
Presented by the Light Group and this humble publication, the evening began with a cocktail reception at the swank Caramel Bar and Lounge before moving on to the property's nightclub, Light, for the awards and after-party.
The club was busy at the beginning of the event and just got busier as the night wore on.
Hosted by Xania V. Woodman, the woman behind the uber-popular nightlife e-newsletter The Circuit, the presentation took the form of an imagined night out in the world's most exciting city, including pre-party primping.
The winner for Best Hair Salon for the third year running was Staci D. Reza's Globe Salon—no surprise when you consider the Decatur and Charleston operation also has won the Weekly's 2004 Readers' Choice Award and the Salon Today 200 from Salon Today magazine.
National women's clothing retailer Bebe strolled away with the top prize for Best Nightclub Shopping, beating out some local favorites like Talulah G, Stash and Musette. Best Dining With a Scene was won by Simon at the Hard Rock, beating out a field of nine restaurants, including the Light Group's own Fix.
The Roadrunner Saloon won the Best Local Bar award for the second year in a row and Best Weekly Party went to newcomer Tangerine for its Moonshine locals night on Wednesdays.
Tabú picked up the top prize for Best Lounge in a category boasting newbies Mix, Teatro and Forty Deuce. Beating out 11 rivals in the largest field, Ice's Mike Fuller won for Best Local Resident DJ. The beautiful women of Spearmint Rhino helped the establishment garner first place for the Best Gentleman's Club.
With some good-natured booing at its mention, Vegas' newest kid on the Strip, Pure, won the coveted Best Dance Club award.
But any rivalries and bitterness were short-lived, with glasses and bottles being raised and the dance floor filling up, as those in attendance got back to doing what they do best: having a good time.