This year, Temptation Sundays at Luxor—the Las Vegas Strip’s only LGBTQ pool party—gets a new host, Eduardo Cordova. But there’s nothing new about the man himself when it comes to parties, hosting and creating safe spaces for the gay community.
“When I moved to Las Vegas in 2005, nightlife was so intriguing to me,” says the Mexico native. “Me being gay myself, I saw there was a need for something upscale for the LGBTQ crowds. Back then there really wasn’t a scene.”
By 2008, Cordova got his first shot at hosting a gay night on the Strip at the now-shuttered CatHouse at Luxor. It was a success, and many followed as he became a big name in the nightlife industry. “I worked with nightlife industry titans learning everything about the industry and having great mentors,” Cordova says. “I always knew I wanted to have my own gay bar someday and create something that elevates gay nightlife.” And he did. Cordova opened The Garden Las Vegas in the spring of 2020, and it has quickly become the go-to spot for both the gay and straight community.
“When I got a call from MGM Resorts to host Temptation Sundays, it was a no-brainer,” says Cordova, who had been attending the pool party as a guest for years. Now it’s Cordova’s job as host to create each Sunday party—from booking dancers and DJs to planning each party’s theme and celebration. You can spot Cordova every Sunday running around the venue, seeing old friends and making new ones.
“There’s this sense of responsibility being a face for the events, but it’s not about me,” he says. “It’s about the purpose. Keeping the party going—that’s important, it makes me feel happy that there are companies like (MGMRI) that want to embrace and go all out. Even with The Garden; it’s bigger than The Garden. It’s about creating more spaces that are safe for the LGBTQ community.”
Libation: Water These Melons
“If you’re gay, we’re the only LGBTQ pool party in Vegas,” Cordova says. “You have to come. If you’re straight, there’s this freedom in the air, and this is a pool party where you can have a good time and not worry about anything but having a good time. Put some glitter and sunscreen on and come ready to have a good time.” Kick the fun up a notch by ordering the huge Water These Melons Temptation Tower (serves up to eight). It’s made with Bacardi Silver rum, simple syrup, lime juice and Red Bull watermelon.
Benefit: After the pool party ends catch a free ride on a shuttle to The Garden Las Vegas, where the party continues.
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