If you didn't have the chance to get out of town for vacation this summer, you may be in luck. A little bit of vacation is coming to State College this weekend for "Viva Las Vegas!"

Becky Schrope, executive director for the AIDS Project, said this event is important because, over the past four years, there have been federal and state funding cuts for HIV and AIDS prevention in rural areas.

There have also been cuts in Ryan White funding, which provides funds for health and support services for those affected by the HIV disease.

She said Viva Las Vegas is a party that started as "The Pride Party" for people to come out and be proud of who they are.

"It's important that this is looked at as an event that brings together the community and a diverse population," Schrope said.

Viva Las Vegas is an event the AIDS Project holds annually.

John Woodside, co-chair for Viva Las Vegas, said it is a night filled with casino games, bingo and professional entertainers.

Schrope said there would be a lounge show with four drag queens from Washington D.C. and Harrisburg.

She said there would also be a bar, which is not included in the entry fee.

Woodside said the casino games and performances would take place in the main ballroom of The Atherton Hotel.

From 7 to 9 p.m. there will be casino games and bingo. From 9 p.m. to midnight there will be performances every hour on the hour.

Woodside said all games shut down during the performances.

Woodside said that, instead of winning cash, people will win chips, which they can turn in for chances to win prizes.

Prizes are donated by local businesses, he said.

"At one point there was a dance, but it wasn't very popular," he said. "Last year's event was very popular, so we're trying to stick with that."

The profits of Viva Las Vegas benefit the AIDS Project in Centre and Clinton counties.

Woodside said the events are run completely by volunteers.

"We really rely on the community -- it takes a lot of time because it's Arts Fest weekend, and we have to train them," Woodside said.

Daniel Paules, banquet manager of The Atherton Hotel, said even though he will be working, he would still check out the performances for Viva Las Vegas.

"It's definitely going to be a party atmosphere," he said. "It will be much more lively around here than usual."