The Sin City Soiree in Las Vegas this month invites transgender people and supporters to gather for a fun and purposeful week of activities.

“It’s all about friendship, love and empowerment,” said Amy Wiltshire, one of the organizers of the event from the transgender group WildSide.

“It’s all about getting that person who’s never been ‘out’ in the world, and we take them under our wing. We’re empowering people to be who they want to be.”

Bally’s Las Vegas is the host hotel for the social gathering that runs May 15-21.


Highlights include exotic car racing May 16 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a pool party May 17 at the Flamingo hotel-casino, shopping for makeup May 19 at the Miracle Mile Shops and a “takeover” of Carnaval Court at Harrah’s on the evening of May 20.

Most activities are free, but registration is required. The price is $30 per person.

The first soiree in 2007 attracted a mere seven participants. Wiltshire said for the 2017 get-together, 215 people had registered as of Thursday. Trans participants will be coming from 11 countries.

“If you ever want to see a casino go completely quiet, come along,” Wiltshire said. “Everybody parts ways when we come in.”


But people are generally welcoming and supportive of “the girls,” as she calls them. “Here in Vegas, we have had very few problems,” Wiltshire said.

Info: WildSide’s 11th Annual Sin City Soiree

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