PHOENIX, (January 28, 2026) — Gila River Resorts & Casinos is not only bringing Vegas-style programming, but maybe something even more out of this world. As part of its four-month Vegas Residency campaign, Gila River Resorts & Casinos — Wild Horse Pass debuted a powerful sky-high beam inspired by the iconic Luxor Light, turning heads and sparking conversation across the Phoenix area.
Often mistaken for unexplained lights in the sky, the “Gila Beam” is a creative homage to Las Vegas energy and entertainment. The beam reaches over 3 miles high and at 1,800 watts is visible throughout South Phoenix and Ahwatukee. The Gila Beam will shine nightly during the residency, with custom color changes and pulsing effects designed to build excitement and buzz throughout the Valley.
“The Gila Beam is meant to spark curiosity and excitement,” said Dominic Orozco, President and Chief Marketing Officer of Gila River Resorts & Casinos. “It’s a bold visual that captures the energy of our Vegas Residency and signals that something special is happening here in the Valley – a reminder that guests don’t have to travel far to experience world-class entertainment.”
The light is just one element of Gila River Resorts & Casinos’ Vegas Residency, which runs from January 9 through April 30, 2026. During the residency, guests can enjoy Las Vegas-inspired events across all four Gila River Resorts & Casinos properties including, The Fabulous Corvette Giveaway Fridays at 8pm, takeovers by Drais Night Club, Vegas themed promotions and more—delivering a full-scale entertainment destination experience without leaving Arizona.
Upcoming Vegas Residency headliners include:
- Ultimate Showgirls Brunch- Jan. 31& Feb.1
- Wild Horse Pass
- 8PM
- Engelbert Humperdink – February 19
- Wild Horse Pass
- 8PM
- Diana Ross – February 20 & 21
- Wild Horse Pass
- 8pm
If February’s itinerary has you excited, consider it just a preview. The Vegas Residency keeps the energy going for months, with upcoming performances from Alfred Robles, The Beach Boys, Robin Thicke, Chippendales, plus high-energy tribute shows and more still to come.
To celebrate the launch of its Vegas Residency, Gila River Resorts & Casinos is offering its “‘You Do You’ Resort Package” that includes a daily $100 food and beverage credit to use during your stay. The resort package is available to book online throughout the duration of the Vegas Residency. Book your stay online at www.playatgila.com.
To learn more about Gila River Resorts & Casinos’ Vegas Residency and its upcoming events, please visit, www.playatgila.com/thevegasresidency.