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Seven Awesome Reasons to Attend the 35th Annual ‘AFAN Black & White Party’

Adults-only gala at Virgin Hotels to raise funds for AIDS patients

It’s more than a month before Halloween, yet the biggest costume party of the year arrives this weekend. We’re talking about the 35th annual Black and White Party on Saturday, September 25th. After skipping last year (for obvious reasons), the Black and White Party is back, and this year’s event is going to be huge. Taking place once more at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (formerly Hard Rock Casino), the 2021 edition is entitled “Welcome To The Jungle”. So you can expect all sorts of body-baring costumes, primal get-ups, and wet, sweaty skin.

“AFAN’s legendary party is back! Welcome to the Jungle invites guests to come wild and free as they enjoy an array of food and beverage sampling, performances from world-class entertainers, and a sea of over-the-top and barely-there black and white fashions. Wear as much Black & White as you want OR as little as you can get away with! We can t wait to party with you. Plan a designated driver or rideshare to make sure you get home safely!

Guests wanting to stay on property can indulge in gorgeous new Virgin Hotels rooms (rates here) or save big by staying at Alexis Park Resort just across the street.

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AFAN Black & White Party 2021

1. It’s A Costume Party

As the name suggests, the Black and White Party is all about themed outfits. You can dress up in formal wear or barely-there….just so long as the colors are black and white. You’ll spot lots of celebrities, entertainers, and internet influencers in the crowd, many trying to out-do one another for attention. Of course, it’s all in good fun. Make sure your phone is charged, as you’ll want to snap pictures of some of the more outrageous get-ups.

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Australia’s HUMAN NATURE

2. Superlative Entertainment

In previous editions, the Black and White party has hosted dozens of world-famous performers on their stage. Stars like AGT’s Daniel Emmet, Tenors of Rock, Pia Zadora, Penn and Teller, Australia’s HUMAN NATURE, and the casts of Magic Mike Live and CELESTIA have entertained the crowd at previous parties.

“Welcome To The Jungle” moves the fun outdoors for a more up-close and personal vibe. Hosts Norma Llyaman (entertainer/activist Jim McCoy) and Bryan Chan will introduce illusions by magician Xavier Mortimer, comedy from Miss Behave, and acts from productions like WOW- The Vegas Spectacular, Extravaganza- The Vegas Spectacular, Chippendales, Sexxy: the Show, Faabulous! The Show, 27 – A Musical Adventure, Doo-Wop Kings, and Aquaria and the Piranha Nightclub Queens.

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The cast of CELESTIA

3. Hot Bodies Everywhere

One of America’s favorite activities is people-watching. That’s why we’re glued to our TVs for red-carpet coverage of awards shows and celebrity parties. At the Black and White gala, gorgeous get-ups and sexy bodies will be on display in every direction, with athletes and performers eager to show off what Mother Nature (and a gym membership) gave them. Be sure to gather friends for your own outrageous photo-ops in the lushly decorated party spaces, too.

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4. Its A Fundraiser for an Important Cause

Proceeds from the Black and White Party support AFAN – Aid for AIDS of Nevada. This non-profit organization provides resources and support for those living with AIDS. It also works to reduce HIV infection through prevention education to eliminate fear, prejudice, and the stigma associated with the disease. AFAN has been helping AIDS-impacted Nevada residents since 1984. “Welcome to the Jungle” marks the 35th year of Black and White benefit galas.

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Penn & Teller are longtime AFAN supporters.

5. Safety For All

Thanks to COVID-19, protocols will be in place to protect all guests. Be sure to thoroughly read the above requirements before purchasing tickets to the event. Organizers appreciate everyone’s support in helping to make Black and White Ball a safe and fun party for everyone.

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Mask up with the cast of SEXXY.

6. Outrageous Food and Drinks

Thanks to a lengthy list of sponsors, Saturday night’s gala will feature a hefty selection of foods and cocktails designed to satisfy your appetite and lift your spirits. Look for booths by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, The Kitchen Commons Club, OLIVES by Todd English, Tecate ALTA, Dos Equis, CAKED Las Vegas, Monster Energy Drink, and many more.

Additional corporate sponsors include Walgreens, iHeart Media, Las Vegas Weekly Magazine, John C. Kish Foundation, and Dignity Health.

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7. The Party Continues Into Sunrise

Not ready to call it a night when the ball drops? Then head over to event sponsor Piranha Nightclub for their official After Party. This year’s guest entertainer is RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Aquaria, along with the Queens of Piranha. Admission is free for those showing their B & W wristband. General admission tickets run $20 and can be purchased in advance by visiting this link.

Author

  • ClayBushes

    A native of Pitchfork, Oklahoma, I have a unique perspective of the world at large and Las Vegas in particular. A former health care professional and detective, I've hopped genres, genders, and glass ceilings in my desire to see things as nobody else does. Care to look through my viewfinder?

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A native of Pitchfork, Oklahoma, I have a unique perspective of the world at large and Las Vegas in particular. A former health care professional and detective, I've hopped genres, genders, and glass ceilings in my desire to see things as nobody else…