El Cortez to Celebrate 85th Anniversary in November
The downtown casino marks the milestone with a city proclamation on Nov. 5 and public festivities on Nov. 7.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Casino
Live Poll
Do you believe long-standing local businesses help maintain the character of your community?
Downtown locals and regular visitors to Fremont Street will see the El Cortez Hotel and Casino celebrate its 85th anniversary with a city proclamation ceremony on Nov. 5, 2026. The historic property, which has operated since 1941, will follow the ceremony with complimentary cake and champagne for guests on its official anniversary date, Nov. 7.
Why it matters
As a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places, the El Cortez represents a rare enduring link to the city's early resort history. The upcoming anniversary marks over eight decades of operation at the corner of the Fremont Street corridor.
The property has evolved from a 60-room hotel built for $245,000 in 1941 to a landmark that has seen over $120 million in improvements. The anniversary celebration honors 85 years of business in downtown Las Vegas.
The players
Kenny Epstein
He is the current owner of the El Cortez who became a partner in 1975.
Jackie Gaughan
He was a significant previous owner who purchased the property in 1963.
Benjamin Siegel
He was a historical figure who purchased the casino in 1945.
City of Las Vegas
The local municipal government is hosting the upcoming proclamation ceremony.
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
The downtown property is marking its 85th year on the National Register of Historic Places.
The details
The City of Las Vegas will host the proclamation ceremony on Nov. 5 to commemorate the milestone, including the recognition of nine employees. The hotel, which saw ownership pass through figures like Benjamin Siegel, Jackie Gaughan, and current owner Kenny Epstein, remains a centerpiece of downtown. Guests can expect the anniversary festivities to conclude with refreshments on Nov. 7.
Timeline
Nov. 7, 1941: The El Cortez opened as a hotel and casino.
1945: Benjamin Siegel and associates purchased the casino.
1963: Jackie Gaughan bought the property.
1975: Kenny Epstein joined as a partner.
Nov. 5, 2026: City proclamation ceremony and employee recognition takes place.
Beyond the Strip
The El Cortez is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, distinguishing it from the newer, transient resort developments across the valley. The 85th-anniversary celebration follows a pattern of heritage-focused investment that contrasts with the constant demolition cycles often seen in the local resort corridor.
Residents planning to visit downtown on Nov. 5 should anticipate minor event-related activity near the property during the proclamation ceremony. Guests can participate in the anniversary celebration by visiting for complimentary cake and champagne on Nov. 7.
The takeaway
The milestone underscores the longevity of independent properties in the downtown core compared to the rapidly changing resort industry elsewhere. Locals should watch for potential crowd volume near Fremont Street on the Nov. 7 anniversary date.
Further reading
For more background on local resort history, visit the Casino section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSNV.
Live Poll
Do you believe long-standing local businesses help maintain the character of your community?
