Nearly 2,000 guests spent a dreamy evening at the splashy Opening Night Party staged last night for The Special Event trade show and conference, running through Jan. 9 in Las Vegas. The show is sponsored by Special Events Magazine and produced by Primedia Business Exhibitions.

At Dreamscape 2004, at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, guests dined and sipped glowing cocktails while visiting dreamscapes from the “money dream” to the “sweets dream.” Entertainment included high-energy bands, aerialists and “bad boy” magicians Penn and Teller.

The night before, NACE caterer members treated guests to a variety of buffets at the Welcome Party, themed “Happy 21st Birthday to You.”

Show attendees began the day with speaker John Alston at the Opening General Session, then seminars ranging from how to get press coverage to the growing role of procurement officers in special events. The sold-out trade show floor also opened its doors, displaying innovative products and services for event professionals.

Today’s events include the Theme Luncheon, seminars and exhibits.

For more information on the show, visit www.thespecialeventshow.com.