Photo by Robyn Barrymore

Harrah's Las Vegas--one of several casinos incorporating the Mardi Gras-Carnival theme.  Here, the Harrah's jester sits looking down on the passers-by on the Strip below. 

The casino originally opened in 1973 as the Holiday Casino.  The front of the building looked like a Mississippi paddle wheel riverboat, which caused confusion with the off-Strip casino called the Showboat.  The casino was renamed Harrah's in 1992,  The carnival theme was incorporated in 1997.

The hotel features 2,677 rooms; the tallest tower of the Harrah's group is 35-stories.

One of Harrah's jesters--located near the Carnival Court. 

Harrah's signature sign located in the valet area. 

Inside the casino:  these mannequins have struck it rich and are ready to retire!!  And their little dog too!! 

Looking down on us--the Harah's jester:  is he just a happy guy, or is he laughing at us? 

The valet area of Harrah's. 

Toby Keith's "I Love this Bar & Grill" at Harrah's, named after one of the country star's hit singles.  Red, white and blue are the color schemes. 

A view of the stainless steel bar tops.  Keith memorabilia is found through-out the establishment and flat-screen televisions play his videos. 

The rear entrance coming in from the Harrah's monorail station--and the walkway that connects to the Imperial Palace.  Toby Keith's Bar is just down the hall. 

The ever-popular Carnival Court Bar and Grill--a flair bar where the bartenders like to toss and juggle bottles.  Harry Connick Jr. performed here during Harrah's re-Grand Opening 

Looking inside the Carnival Court--the bar is open-air and the misters are keeping all the patrons cool from the 105-degree heat.  A band is playing in the background.

A Harrah's girl handing out coupons and fliers near the Carnival Court. 

At the rear of Harrah's. 

A view above the main entrance onto the Strip. 

Carnival Court Bar & Grill at Harrah's--with its flair bartenders.  Video filmed May 29, 2007.  (If the video doesn't load-up, try refreshing the page).