October in Las Vegas: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

For most of the U.S., October marks the return of chilly weather, mulled cider, and knit scarves, but for the desert oasis that is Las Vegas, Nevada, the first full month of fall still feels a little bit like summer. The days are still hot enough to take dips in the pool and the crowds that would normally congest clubs and casinos during the peak travel season tend to disperse. As a result, hotel rates and show prices are on the decline in October, making it prime time to catch the Blue Man Group or a performance by Cirque du Soleil.

The parties for which Vegas is known naturally wind down after the college-age set goes home, but Halloween warrants revelries around town. Although the traditional Vegas aesthetic favors party dresses and swimwear, warmer layers will be necessary for nights out as the month goes on.

Las Vegas Weather in October

By October, the sweltering heat that plagues Vegas in the summer has worn off. The average low temperature is 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) while highs still reach into the 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) range. During the day, expect lots of sunshine—the average rainfall for October is only 0.3 inches—and warm weather into the 70s Fahrenheit (20s Celsius). When the sun sets, the desert city gets cool very quickly.

October marks the end of pool party season, but Vegas pools typically remain open until the end of the month. Because of this, you're more likely to have the area to yourself—perfect for those looking for a quiet, tranquil dip over the high-octane, alcohol-infused pool parties that Las Vegas is known for.

What to Pack

Because Vegas' temperature varies so widely in October, it's best to bring layers: light cotton shirts, dresses, and shorts in addition to sweaters and pants (keep in mind casinos usually blast the AC). If you plan to visit a ritzy club or show, there will probably be a dress code, so also pack dressier clothes such as slacks or a nice dress and heels. Glitz and glam are embraced in Las Vegas, so don't be afraid to don your flashiest attire.

October Events in Las Vegas

New York City may be the City That Never Sleeps, but Sin City shares the sentiment. You shouldn't have trouble finding a party (and an after-party) in this bustling city, no matter the season. October has a few special events going for it, though.

• Las Vegas Food & Wine Festival: The month kicks off with this annual foodie event. Local chefs come together in the luxurious Tivoli Village to showcase their talents and guests get a chance to taste wines and small bites from top restaurateurs. It's an adults-only festival and the proceeds go towards a different charitable cause each year. 2020's will take place from October 1 to 4.
• Atlantis Festival: The whole city celebrates Halloween in style, but true cosplayers will pull out all the stops for this fantasy event. For two days, the Las Vegas Convention Center is transformed into five themed destinations with a host of performances, workshops, and intricate costumes. The event was canceled in 2020.
• Las Rageous: Dozens of rock and metal bands descend on downtown Vegas for three days of intimate concerts on two outdoor stages during this music festival, which has in the past featured Rob Zombie, Chevelle, and The Used. In 2020, it was canceled.

October Travel Tips

• Nearby Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon offer some spectacular sights of Nevada's otherworldly red rock formations, and October is—temperature-wise—one of the most comfortable times to visit them.
• Halloween is one of Las Vegas' biggest party nights of the year. Grab a costume and head to any hotel for a night of gambling, drinking, and dancing.
• A Las Vegas residency is a great way to see well-known performers. The lineup changes during the year but music greats like Aerosmith, Lady Gaga, and Usher have all taken the stage.
• October is also the start of hockey season. Sports fans can catch the Las Vegas Golden Knights at the T-Mobile Arena.
• The Specialty Equipment Market Association holds its annual SEMA Show in Vegas during the first week of November. It's best to avoid this time as the conference brings in swarms of people and drives up hotel prices.