News Summary

Las Vegas prepares for a landmark celebration of UNLVino, its iconic wine tasting event supporting hospitality education. Scheduled for May 2, attendees can enjoy a wide range of beverages, culinary experiences from local restaurants, and a hands-on learning opportunity for students. Over its history, the event has raised millions for scholarships, fostering the next generation of hospitality professionals. Tickets start at $100, and all proceeds benefit the UNLVino Scholarship Fund.

Las Vegas to Celebrate 50th Anniversary of UNLVino with Grand Tasting Event

Las Vegas is set to host the 50th anniversary of UNLVino, an iconic wine tasting event that has been instrumental in supporting hospitality education over the years. Scheduled for May 2, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Thomas & Mack Center, this milestone celebration aims to raise essential funds for scholarships for students at the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality.

Over its five-decade history, UNLVino has successfully raised millions of dollars, directly benefiting students pursuing degrees in hospitality. Each ticket sold and auction item purchased contributes to the UNLVino Scholarship Fund, which alleviates financial barriers and offers students the opportunity to chase their dreams in the hospitality sector. The program helps ensure that dedicated and passionate students can focus on their studies and career aspirations without the burden of financial strain.

Event Details and Participation

This year’s event will feature a diverse lineup of 80 beverage booths, showcasing a wide array of drinks including bold red wines, crisp whites, sake, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic options. Culinary partners from local favorites such as Slater’s 50/50, On Demand Sushi, and Heavenly Pies & Trattoria will present thoughtfully curated food offerings, enhancing the tasting experience.

UNLVino not only serves as a fundraising mechanism but also provides a practical experience for hospitality students. The event will involve 28 student managers, eight culinary students, and over 100 campus volunteers, all playing vital roles in the event’s logistics, marketing, and execution. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to a real-world event, preparing them for successful careers in the hospitality industry.

A Legacy of Philanthropy and Recognition

Originally founded by local philanthropist Larry Ruvo and former dean Jerry Vallen in a warehouse, UNLVino has grown to become the oldest and largest wine tasting event in Las Vegas. This year’s event will honor notable legends in the hospitality field, including Don Ross from Caesars Entertainment and Michael Severino, highlighting their significant contributions to the industry.

As demographics shift over the years, UNLVino has maintained a vibrant mix of attendees, appealing to hospitality professionals aged 30 to 50, along with an influx of young professionals eager to discover and taste the offerings from exemplary local restaurants.

Ticket Information

Tickets for UNLVino are priced affordably, with general admission tickets costing $100 in advance and $125 at the door. For those seeking an enhanced experience, VIP tickets are available for $170 in advance. All proceeds from ticket sales directly fund the UNLVino Scholarship Fund, continuing the vital support for hospitality students aiming to thrive in their respective careers.

Conclusion

With a legacy spanning 50 years and a commitment to enhancing hospitality education through financial assistance, UNLVino has solidified its place in Las Vegas culture. As attendees savor a full tasting experience and honor industry leaders, they contribute directly to shaping the future of hospitality education, ensuring that students can pursue their career goals without facing insurmountable financial challenges.

Tickets are available now through UNLVino’s official website, encouraging members of the community to participate in this significant milestone event.

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Additional Resources

• Las Vegas Weekly
• Wikipedia: UNLVino
• News 3 LV
• Google Search: UNLVino 50th anniversary
• Caesars Investor
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wine
• Nevada Business
• Google News: UNLVino Las Vegas 2025

Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER

LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.