The Sands Hotel and Casino operated on the Las Vegas strip from 1952 to 1996.
Back then, casinos and resorts relied on eye-catching marquees to advertise their entertainers, shows, dinners, and other amenities. These classic signs were a staple of the golden era of entertainment, serving as glamorous beacons of light and lettering that beckoned audiences into the exciting world of showbiz.
In this image, we see legends of the 1960s Rat Pack era—Dean Martin and likely his buddies Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., along with other entertainers like Martin Denny, Dave Burton, and the Ernie Stewart Trio. The Sands was famous for hosting unforgettable performances with A-list headliners, bringing a “who’s who” of talent to the stage. This particular shot was likely taken in the early 1960s when the Sands was the heart of Vegas nightlife.
Marquees like this didn’t just promote shows; they captured the glitz, glamour, and spirit of Las Vegas itself. Today, they remain iconic symbols of an era when the Strip beamed with classic flair.
