Shakedown Vegas burst onto the scene with a thrilling opening weekend, delighting attendees and vendors alike from start to finish. Everyone who made it out enjoyed a lively atmosphere filled with great music, mouthwatering food, and the warm camaraderie that defines the Shakedown community. There was even a special shout-out for Grilled Cheese Love, whose parking lot delicacies became the talk of the event.
David Gans played a pivotal role in the weekend’s success, performing memorable sets and sharing legendary sit-ins with The Deadgummits and PITS Players. His presence truly elevated the experience for every music lover in attendance.
Among the standout performances, The Deadgummits from Tulsa, Oklahoma, absolutely stole the show. This nine-piece band proved that piling into a van and crossing the desert in search of a good time is the very essence of Shakedown and The Grateful Dead tradition.
Daytime sets took place both indoors in the Piazza Lounge and outdoors on the Main Stage, where bands like Raining Moonshine Band, Gent Treadly, and Marcus Rezak helped set a perfect mood in the fresh air. Jeremy from Jammin Dyes contributed to the vibrant setting by wrapping the stage and fence with eye-catching designs, transforming the outside area into a feast for the senses.
Inside the Piazza Lounge, local favorites Mojave Blue kickstarted Thursday’s festivities, followed by The Deadgummits and PITS Players on Friday and Saturday. Guests could relax in the Piazza or the adjacent outdoor seating area, enjoying good tunes and good times all afternoon.
On Saturday, the Drum Circle, presented by Drumbus.com, proved absolutely epic. This weekly ritual promises to keep building its energy as the season continues, and anticipation is already running high for next time.
Shakedown After Dark continued to exceed all expectations. The Atomic City Allstars, featuring a blend of local and visiting musicians led by Carlos Swayze and Eva Yaz, set off the late-night revelry with a bang. They are slated to return on Sunday, May 11th, for a special Mother’s Day performance. Meanwhile, Eva will also take the stage with her other project, Left Side Swing, for an opening set next Sunday at 10 a.m. during the second installment of the Brunch Series.
Saturday night’s Piazza Lounge transformation—removing tables and chairs to create a spacious dance floor—kicked off a brand-new concept called Shakedown After Dark: Saturday X2. Both the Copa Room and Piazza Lounge will continue showcasing top-quality music every Saturday night. BPR Brass Band ignited the crowd for the series debut and will return to bring the X2 series to a triumphant close on Saturday, May 17th.
Sunday Brunch at the Bistecca proved another highlight. PITS Players and David Gans delighted fans with a memorable, talk-of-the-town performance that combined fantastic food, excellent service, and a perfectly blissful ambiance—complete with dancing hippies in the Bistecca.
The entire Shakedown Vegas team extends gratitude to Deadshowz.com for logistical support. Deadshowz is an app that places a wealth of Grateful Dead information right in the palm of any fan’s hand.
New for This Week
Week 2 kicks off this Wednesday night, promising even more fun following the wild success of opening weekend. The Wednesday “Waiting on the Band” Weekend Warm Up will feature Kansas City’s Shakedown Strings, an acoustic trio returning after a buzz-worthy Shakedown Vegas debut last year.
Shakedown Vegas will also unveil the first of two planned “Visual Artist Residencies” this week, welcoming world-renowned artist Jack Shure. His outdoor exhibit on Shakedown promises incredible artwork, and Jack will be on hand to meet admirers and offer stunning creations for sale.
Grilled Cheese Love will keep everyone fed once again, while the music lineup continues to impress. Southern California’s Drivin The Bus Band makes its first-ever Shakedown Vegas appearance, Las Vegas’ Frankie Lee and The Infernos are set to deliver a powerful show, and local project Left Side Swing (featuring Eva Yaz) will offer a very special opening set for Sunday’s “Brunch at the Bistecca.”
New Mexico’s Lonn Calanca Band returns by popular demand, bringing unparalleled energy to the stage. Also, Southern California’s Shakedown String Band (distinct from Shakedown Strings) will arrive Friday for its second Shakedown After Dark performance—following a legendary show in 2024. Meanwhile, local talents Catfish John and Delilah’s Dead will represent the Sin City jamband scene, and the ever-evolving PITS Players continue to embody Shakedown’s spirit with their uniquely spontaneous sets.
Both the Wednesday “Weekend Warm Up” in the Piazza Lounge (starting at 7 p.m.) and the Sunday “Brunch at the Bistecca” series (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) have been big hits so far. Last weekend’s brunch even sold out, so anyone hoping to attend is encouraged to reserve a table through OpenTable.
The Tuscany Suites & Casino staff and management deserve a round of applause for working tirelessly to create a safe, enjoyable environment for all. Guests are encouraged to express their thanks when they can. The newly designed blackjack table felt is another fun surprise that speaks to the staff’s dedication and creativity.
Partnership Spotlight: The Las Vegas Arts District
This week’s highlighted partner is The Las Vegas Arts District, an organization committed to revitalizing downtown Vegas into a vibrant destination for visitors seeking alternative or additional experiences beyond the casinos. Guests can pick up the “Arts District Passport” at Shakedown, which details special deals for Deadheads from local shops. Look for the LV Arts District info table at the main entrance each day of Shakedown.
Gratitude goes out to all who continue to read and share these updates. The team’s hope is that everyone finds a reason to come back for more music, art, and community.
Shakedown Vegas Details
Location: Tuscany Suites & Casino – South Parking Lot | Time: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Event Dates:
Thu, Fri & Sat March 27, 28 & 29
Thu, Fri & Sat April 17, 18 & 19
Thu, Fri & Sat April 24, 25 & 26
Fri, Sat & Sun May 9, 10 & 11
Thu, Fri & Sat May 15, 16 & 17
