VIVA LAS VEGAS!! No, I am not singing Elvis for you... I am talking about the infamous Rockabilly weekender held in (you guessed it) Las Vegas! Viva Las Vegas was founded 13 years ago by Tom Ingram and has continued to grow and develop quite the following.

Guys and gals fly in from all over the world to experience the car shows, music, burlesque, parties, and all things Rockabilly. I have been dying to attend, but unfortunately due to my hectic schedule I am still a "Viva Virgin."

Sadly I felt like I was the only doll left that has yet to experience the joys of Viva, but then I realized that I am not alone. I couldn't bear the thought of us missing out on another year of fun, so I called on a few friends to give us a little sneak peak and to share their experiences.

I have already made a pack to ditch my v-card next year and after reading some of our fans blogs I think you will be joining me ;) Over the next 3 days, we will be sharing the amazing stories from Lacey, Sarah, and our July 2010 Pin Up of the Month, Ms. Becky Lee. Make sure you check back as I am sure you will find each story as interesting and exciting as I did! A very special thanks to all three lovely ladies for sharing with us!

Nikki
xoxo

Lacey's Experience:
Viva Las Vegas 2011 has come and gone and I'd love to some how bring it back magically to do all over again! Not just because this year I was riddled with the MOST annoying cold that lasted my whole trip, but also because Viva is just soooo much fun!!!!! If you are even mildly into Rockabilly and have never gone to Viva.....what are you waiting for?? It's our Utopia! For four whole days we invade Sin City with bands, vendors and cars, cars, cars!!!! Not to mention the huge Pool Party held every year!! Truly, one of the best reasons for going is purely for people watching! Everyone shows up in their vintage best! Lots to learn, take in and share with like minded guys and gals. Every year seems to get bigger and bigger and this year was no exception.

The first day of Viva generally starts off a bit slow but this year's began with a big bang at Frankie's Tiki Room!! Lots of amazing people to mix and mingle with including some of my favorite pin up girls!!! Frankie's can become cramped quickly but the crowd is always polite and the crew always ready to show you a good time. Frankie's is a definite "don't miss" when going to Viva!

Another highlight at Viva is "Miss Wolf's Jiving Class". It's a great way to learn or brush up on your dancing skills to make way for the big jiving contest! The Jiving contest is incredible to watch even if your not the best dancer. Couples of all ages take the floor to shimmy and shake, most of which are AMAZING to watch!

Speaking of super hot contests, the Burlesque contest is another "not to be missed" event at Viva each year. Some of the hottest ladies in burlesque compete to be crowned "Miss Viva Las Vegas". The show is produced by the lovely Miss Victoria Vengeance whose stage show grows more and more unbelievably awesome every year! Each contestant does their best to woo and entice the crowd. After the last performer, it's up to the audience to decide who the new "Miss Viva Las Vegas will be". It's great fun, often because of the caliber of the contestants and host. If you love great burlesque, you will absolutely want to take part in this event!

For many, the car show is a big draw. It's always held in the back parking lot of the Orleans hotel where Viva takes place. Tons of Vendors, bands and of course the most beautiful vintage cars to be seen and photographed. The car show can be fun and a great opportunity to meet lots of well known people. But it can get rather crowded, you definitely need to pace yourself. And ladies, bring your parasols!!!!! The sun gets pretty nasty out there in the open!

The main event at the car show this year was Jerry Lee Lewis!!! Always a good idea to pick a spot early, this year it was almost impossible! EVERYONE was anxious and excited to see this true legend play. I have to admit, I didn't get much more than a peek at him here and there on stage but I will say this, closing your eyes and listening to him play, he might as well have been the Jerry Lee we all know and love. Not one trace of his age comes through in his performing. For me, it was absolutely breathtaking!!!

As I said, I wish I could go back and do it all over again! But I guess that's what next year is for! For now I do still have tons of gorgeous pictures of my two beautiful friends, Erin and Billie and me taken so kindly by our good friend and favorite photographer, the incredible Mr. Tim Hunter!!!!!

Enjoy Viva as we did and hope to see you next year!!!

Check out Lacey's pictures HERE and don't forget to check back tomorrow for Sarah's experience!