Eight-Week Series, “What Happened to You in Vegas?” to Guide Older Adults in Crafting Personal Stories & Essays
The Neon Museum will host its third annual What Happened to You in Vegas? an eight-week memoir writing workshop series led by award-winning author and teaching artist Joylynn M. Ross. Designed for seniors, this hands-on series will guide participants in crafting personal stories and essays inspired by their experiences in Las Vegas.
“The Neon Boneyard has a way of unlocking memory,” said Ross. “For writers in our workshop, those signs become prompts – sparks that bring long-held thoughts to the surface. This course provides a meaningful space for older adults to reflect, discover common ground and celebrate their creativity. As the series unfolds, participants have the opportunity to share their work and form lasting connections with one another.”
Set against the 2.27-acre campus of the Neon Boneyard – The Neon Museum’s outdoor exhibition space showcasing historic signs – participants will draw inspiration from the Museum’s collection of iconic Las Vegas artifacts.
Aaron Berger, executive director of The Neon Museum, said, “This program reflects the Museum’s core mission – to honor the people behind the city’s history. By inviting participants to explore their histories and express themselves, we’re opening the doors to new perspectives that deserve to be part of the Las Vegas narrative, while continuing to build a meaningful, connected community.”
The eight-session workshop will be held over eight weeks, from March 2 to April 13, 2026. Tickets are priced at $40, covering all eight sessions, as single-session tickets are not available. Members of The Neon Museum can register for just $30.
For more information or to register, visit www.neonmuseum.org.
The Neon Museum illuminates the cultural essence of Las Vegas by sharing iconic signage, diverse collections and stories that define its vibrant past, present and future. Its core values seek to create a sense of belonging for everyone; promote scholarship through its work and collaborations; offer fun engagement that reflects the spirit of Las Vegas; and demonstrate overall excellence.
Founded in 1996, The Neon Museum achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) in 2021, the highest national honor for museums in the United States. Situated on a 2.27-acre campus, the Museum features:
- The Neon Boneyard: An outdoor exhibition space displaying historic signs no longer in use.
- The North Gallery: Home to Brilliant! Jackpot, an immersive audiovisual experience that re-illuminates over 40 non-operational signs using advanced technology.
- The Boulevard Gallery: A transitional space showcasing collection pieces.
- The Visitors’ Center: Located in the iconic former La Concha Motel lobby designed by famed architect Paul Revere Williams.
- The Neon Boneyard Park: A green space where visitors can learn more of Las Vegas’ rich history.
The museum’s collection also includes 15 restored signs displayed as public art in downtown Las Vegas collectively known as The Las Vegas Boulevard Scenic Byway Project and additional pieces on loan to non-profits and government entities. Its ongoing initiatives encompass public education, outreach, research, and arts preservation.
For more information, including tour schedules and tickets, visit www.neonmuseum.org. Also follow @NeonMuseum on Facebook and @theneonmuseumlasvegas on Instagram.
