Las Vegas Unveils Its Hidden History at Duck Duck Shed

Hosted by The Neon Museum, the four-day event features 40 distinct programs designed to bridge the gap between the city’s glitzy reputation and its complex reality. Organizers aim to capture the voices of those who shaped the landscape before these personal histories disappear. Beyond the spectacle, the festival addresses the systemic stigmas surrounding Las Vegas’ past, including the overlooked contributions of women in the adult entertainment industry and the resilience of the Historic Westside during the era of segregation.

Experts and historians are set to lead deep dives into the city’s architectural evolution, from the structural ingenuity required to implode the iconic Landmark hotel to the design philosophy that transformed The Mirage into a blueprint for modern hospitality. Attendees will gain rare access to stories behind legendary wardrobes, such as the million-dollar black leather suit worn by Elvis, and explore how showgirls set the performance standards that define today’s major productions. By examining the intersection of design, magic, and social history, the event offers a comprehensive look at how a small gambling town evolved into a global destination for entertainment and architectural experimentation.