Let the Lucky Lady burn

February 9, 2012 by Alexia Gyorody 

Las Vegas to host its own Burning Man-style event

I can smell it now: a bunch of hipsters dancing around, sweating and drinking beer in the company of old, washed-up hippies — all basking in the glow of a large, burning sculpture … in a parking lot downtown.

Some artists, specifically the organizers behind First Friday, are hoping to emulate the annual Burning Man festival that takes place in the Northern Nevada desert, right here in Las Vegas.

At March’s Burn Vegas Burn! event, which will be held at the corner of Third Street and Colorado Avenue and take place during March’s First Friday, a 20 foot wooden showgirl, named Lucky Lady Lucy, will be set a-flame for all to see at 8:15 p.m.

Curious, since the event’s inspiration denotes a burning male, not female.

But hey, whatever works.

The Review-Journal recently reported that Merritt Pelkey, the artist who designed Lucy, foresees that the upcoming burning will facilitate a deeper connection between the monthly downtown music and arts festival and its attendees.

In recent months, First Friday has faced speculation about its ability to survive due to questions surrounding who financially supports the monthly event. Luckily, investors and community members have come together to keep the event running.

Those organizers, who are behind this hopefully annual occasion, expect for it to increase attendance of locals and non-locals to First Friday.

In addition to the burning showgirl there will be a slew of activities taking place throughout the evening beginning at 6 p.m. including a DJ, lighting effects, Dancetronauts, fire spinning and performances by cast members of The Burning Opera.

Organizers are also marketing to other cities, offering hotel packages to out-of-town guests at the Golden Nugget, El Cortez and the Plaza.

Those so inclined can also join the MeetUp group dedicated to the event.