Las Vegas to ring in 2013 with big crowds, largest fireworks display, Beyonce

Hannah Dreier, The Associated Press

LAS VEGAS, Nev. - Casinos bosses are hoping for a bright and profitable night as thousands of partiers descend on Sin City to usher in 2013 with big-name concerts, celebrity toasts, and an eight-minute fireworks display.

Tourism officials expect 330,000 visitors to flock to the desert on Monday.

Police will shut down most of the Las Vegas Strip to vehicle traffic by 6 p.m., with seven hotel-casinos co-ordinating a midnight fireworks display billed as the country's largest.

Musical acts including Beyonce, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Black Keys will play in the New Year with sold-out concerts.

Some revelers have paid as much as $3,000 for seats at nightclub parties hosted by celebrities including Kim Kardashian, Nicki Minaj and Brandy.

Nevada National Guard troops will be watching for terrorist threats.