Bruno Mars Celebrated as 'New King of Las Vegas' with Strip Parade

Singer-songwriter honored with street naming and $1 million donation to children's hospital

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:38am

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An extreme close-up of shimmering sequins and shattered glass reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and excitement of a Las Vegas celebration.The vibrant energy and high-end luxury of a Las Vegas celebration honoring Bruno Mars as the 'new king of the Strip.'Las Vegas Today

In a celebration on the Las Vegas Strip, singer-songwriter Bruno Mars was declared the 'new king of Las Vegas' and honored with a parade, the naming of 'Bruno Mars Drive,' and the declaration of 'Bruno Mars Day.' Mars, who has performed over 140 shows in Las Vegas residencies since 2016, also pledged a $1 million donation to the Las Vegas Children's Hospital, with his partner MGM Grand matching the contribution.

Why it matters

Bruno Mars has become one of the most iconic performers in Las Vegas, joining the ranks of legendary entertainers like Elvis Presley and the Rat Pack who have had streets named after them on the Strip. This celebration solidifies Mars' status as a modern Las Vegas legend and underscores his deep connection to the city.

The details

During the celebration on the Las Vegas Strip, Mars rode in a pink low-rider with two showgirls at his side as he was declared the 'new king of Las Vegas.' Officials named a street 'Bruno Mars Drive' near the Park MGM, where Mars has performed extensively. In addition to the parade and street naming, Mars pledged a $1 million donation to the Las Vegas Children's Hospital, with his partner MGM Grand matching the contribution.

  • On Friday, April 11, 2026, the city of Las Vegas honored Bruno Mars with a parade and other celebrations.
  • Mars is kicking off his global Romantic Tour in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium later that night.

The players

Bruno Mars

A popular singer-songwriter who has become one of the most iconic performers in Las Vegas, with over 140 shows during residencies between 2016 and 2025. He has also opened a cocktail lounge and nightclub at the Bellagio.

Bill Hornbuckle

The CEO and president of MGM Resorts International, which has partnered with Bruno Mars.

Deedee Jenkins

A Las Vegas resident who was excited to see Bruno Mars join the ranks of legendary entertainers like Elvis and the Rat Pack who have had streets named after them on the Strip.

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What they’re saying

“It's such a privilege, and I want to thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for giving me this today.”

— Bruno Mars, Singer-songwriter

“But they're old school. This is new blood, and I'm ready for it with my old self.”

— Deedee Jenkins, Las Vegas resident

“Bruno Mars has shown he has the 'legacy and legs' to perform in Las Vegas years from now.”

— Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and president of MGM Resorts International

What’s next

Mars is kicking off his global Romantic Tour in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium later that night, giving fans a taste of what they can expect from the performer.

The takeaway

Bruno Mars' celebration as the 'new king of Las Vegas' solidifies his status as a modern Las Vegas legend, joining the ranks of iconic entertainers like Elvis and the Rat Pack. His deep connection to the city, through his numerous residencies and new business ventures, demonstrates how he has become an integral part of the Las Vegas entertainment landscape.