Some people would claim that temptation lurks around every corner of Las Vegas. Why that may or may not be true, without question it—along with lots and lots of sun-kissed flesh—can be found every Sunday afternoon throughout the summer at the North Pool of the Luxor Hotel and Casino.
The aptly named Temptation Sundays, the longest-running LGBTQ+ pool party in Vegas, sees an average of 1,500 (and up to 2,000+ on holiday weekends and for special promotions) partygoers each Sunday. It has been hosted by the Luxor since 2010, with a brief pause in 2020 due to pandemic precautions.
Temptation Sundays 13th season recently kicked off with LGBTQ+ icons Travis Wall, two-time Emmy Award-winning choreographer and dancer, Jade Jolie and Tamisha Iman from “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, as well as Miss Nevada Kataluna Enriquez, the first transgender woman to compete in Miss USA.
Plus special appearances by Drag Queens Salem Night and Desiree St. James and go-go boys galore gyrating to the most popular dance hits being spun by DJ Jae Fuze.
Vegas nightlife promoter and owner of the award-winning LGBTQ+ ultra lounge The Garden, Eduardo Cordova, serves as the official host for Temptation Sundays. He credits the event’s long-term success with the fact that each season is curated with special DJs, celebrity guests, and amazing Drag queen entertainers to create a unique party atmosphere that welcomes one and all.
“We have visitors from all over the world every week who look forward to our pool party–even making plans months in advance to attend. We continually hear stories of guests meeting their husband or their best friend at Temptation Sundays and our fun activations, special guests, and surprises are what keep fans coming back for more,” said Cordova.
As a transgender woman, Enriquez sees even deeper meaning to Temptations Sundays’ continued success, saying “In this political climate, it is more important than ever that we have safe spaces, such as Temptation Sundays where we can be our true selves.”
Since the time Enriquez was crowned Miss Nevada USA and became the first openly transgender woman qualified to compete in the Miss USA pageant in 2021, there have been dozens of anti-trans pieces of legislation introduced—and in many cases passed into law—in numerous states across the U.S.
Upcoming special guests and activations for this year’s season of Temptation Sundays include Jaida Essence Hall, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 12 winner, guest hosting on Sunday, May 21. Elliott with 2 Ts, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 13 fan favorite, headlines the pool party’s Pride Month celebration on Sunday, June 18. Designer Andrew Christian plans a big 4th of July weekend party on Sunday, July 2.
Cordova and the team at Luxor are also promising lots of special fun for its annual White Party on Labor Day weekend on Sunday, Sept. 3.
Temptation Sundays’ current season will continue from noon to 6 pm every Sunday through Sept 3. It is open to both hotel and non-hotel guests; however, space is limited so attendees are encouraged to make plans early.
Attendees can upgrade their Temptation Sundays’ experience with reserved seating options including lounge chairs with umbrellas, daybeds, or a luxurious cabana that includes entry for up to eight guests, four plush lounge chairs, and a mini fridge for the ultimate indulgent day by the pool.
Learn more about Las Vegas’ LGBTQ+ scene and offerings here.
