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Welcome back to the season of branded lanyards, long badge lines, and that annual debate over whether DEF CON is “better” or “scary” or is becoming just as “corporate” as Black Hat is becoming (we see you, forum threads).
As Black Hat USA 2025 gears up for another Vegas takeover, one thing is certain: the events around the conference are where relationships are built, drinks are spilled, and cybersecurity’s coolest humans let loose (or network aggressively while pretending to have fun, both valid).
Like last year’s guide, we’re crowd-sourcing, curating, and collecting all the good stuff in one place. Below are the best (and often exclusive) opportunities for having a blast at Black Hat USA: from Topgolf takeovers to alcohol-free speakeasies; this year’s vibe is “if you’re not RSVP’d, you’re not getting in.”
How to Use This Guide: We’ve organized events by date. Each entry includes time, location, RSVP notes, and vibe check.
Pro tip: most events are invite-only or approval-based! Get that request in ASAP!
August 4, Monday (Kickoff Parties)
Security Leaders Happy Hour
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: Register to see the address, Las Vegas
About: Cocktails, appetizers, and networking with B Capital, Greycroft, Okta Ventures, Sentinel One, and Syn Ventures, just steps from the conference floor. Register here
Note: Invite-only, registration required
EC-Council Executive Cocktail Reception
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Where: Topgolf, 4627 Koval Ln
About: This executive-level kickoff brings together senior cybersecurity leaders over food, drinks, and golf swings. Register
Note: Invite-only, approval required
August 5, Tuesday
Cyber Leaders Lunch (Armis)
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Where: Armis Hospitality Suite, Mandalay Bay
About: The midday event focused on peer-level discussions. Intentionally low noise, limited capacity. Request to join
Note: Seating is limited for this executive gathering.
Security Insider Hour
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: Private Suite, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas
About: A relaxed happy hour for cybersecurity founders, investors, and security leaders, hosted by Aspiron Search, Marketbridge, and Code Red Partners. Good drinks, real talk. Register here
Note: Invite-only, registration required
Darktrace After Dark
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: Kumi, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas
About: Cocktails, bites, and networking with security professionals in an upscale setting. Business casual attire is recommended. Register here
Note: Invite-only, calendar invite required
IANS Happy Hour
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: IANS Suite, W Hotel, Las Vegas
About: Join IANS Faculty and peers for a relaxed evening of networking, idea exchange, and real-world insights from the front lines of cybersecurity. Register here
Note: RSVP required
Log Out + Link Up: Coalfire's Black Hat Happy Hour
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: ORLA at Mandalay Bay Beach, Las Vegas
About: Mediterranean bites, curated cocktails, and relaxed conversations with Coalfire’s cybersecurity and compliance team. Register here
Note: invite-only, registration required
Zero Networks & Seemplicity Happy Hour
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: S Bar, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas
About: Drinks, sharp conversations, and great company with Zero Networks, Seemplicity, and fellow cybersecurity pros. A stylish kickoff to your Tuesday night. Register here
PowerUp Party (Armis)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Hazel Lounge, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
About: An evening event for tech-forward security leaders and partners. Expect a polished atmosphere and high turnout. Registration required and subject to approval. RSVP here
Note: RSVP required
Coro Cybersecurity Happy Hour
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World
About: A curated evening of conversation, drinks, and connections with Coro. Space is limited. Register here
Note: Invite-only, RSVP required
Dataminr Happy Hour
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Toca Madera, Las Vegas
About: Kick off Black Hat with cocktails and small bites alongside Dataminr and cybersecurity peers. Register here
Note: RSVP required
Foundation Room Reception at Black Hat USA 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Foundation Room, 63rd Floor
About: Take the time to connect with industry professionals and discuss the latest trends in cybersecurity. Register
Note: RSVP required
Qwiet AI: Swing and Secure
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: Topgolf, Las Vegas
About: Food, drinks, and relaxed networking with cloud security pros. Space is limited, and attire is business casual. Register here
Note: Invite-only, approval required
CloudSec After Dark
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Skyfall Panoramic Bar & Lounge (Located atop the W Hotel – 64th Floor @ Mandalay Bay
About: Signature cocktails, DJ sets, and high-altitude networking with cloud security leaders above the Strip. Space is limited. Register here
Note: RSVP required
SpecterOps Bowling Party: “Let the Good Times Roll”
Time: 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Where: Brooklyn Bowl, Las Vegas
About: Strike up new connections at this relaxed, retro bowling party hosted by SpecterOps. Register now
ZeroFox Level‑Up Party (the Cybersecurity Marketing Society is Sponsoring this One!)
Time: 9:00 PM
Where: Skyfall Lounge, W Las Vegas
About: Mix and mingle with ZeroFox leadership, enjoy music and hors d’oeuvres, and gear up for a night of casual networking. Claim your spot
Note: Registration recommended
August 6, Wednesday
UnPlugged Party (Armis)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: Hazel Lounge
About: This after-hours event blends futuristic vibes, immersive experiences, bold flavors, and high-energy networking. Expect creative cocktails, live music, and a crowd full of sharp minds in security. Register
Notes: RSVP required
Lockstep // Black Hat 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Register to see the address
About: A premium, invite-only event with a full venue buyout, signature cocktails, curated experiences, and top-tier networking. It includes Uber vouchers, pro photography, and a list of top cybersecurity sponsors. Registration is limited and restricted to sponsor contacts.
Note: Your registration is subject to approval by the host. Save your spot
Zscaler “Trim Threats & Toast” Happy Hour
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: The Barbershop, The Cosmopolitan
About: Join Zscaler, Cribl, CrowdStrike & Rubrik for cocktails, snacks, and relaxed conversation. Register here
Note: Invite-only, RSVP required
Sober Speakeasy (Sober in Cyber)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: The Mob Museum
About: Alcohol-free evening with music, light food, and great conversation in a historic downtown venue. Dress smart casual. Learn more
Optiv Afterparty
Time: 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Where: Daylight Beach Club, Located outside Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
About: Join Optiv’s cybersecurity pros for cocktails, conversation, and insight-sharing after a day on the show floor. Get your ticket
August 7, Thursday
Lock It Down Networking Reception (Minimus)
Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: 1923 Prohibition Bar & Minus 5 Ice Bar
About: Connect with top executive decision-makers and influencers over drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and live music. More info
Note: This is a vetted private event. No recruiters or non-sponsored vendors will be admitted.
The HACKasan Party (Pentera + Armis)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: Hakkasan, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd
About: A high-energy nightclub takeover. Expect a packed floor, loud music, and a full production experience. Cocktail attire or smart casual is recommended. Secure your spot
Note: RSVP required
Pentera After‑Party @ Black Hat
Time: 8:00 PM
Where: Hakkasan | MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd
About: Drinks, light bites, and networking with Pentera at their official Black Hat after‑party. Register here
Note: Invite-only, registration required
DEF CON 33 (Community Events)
EFF Benefit Poker Tournament
Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Friday, August 8, 2025
Where: Planet Hollywood Poker Room
About: Charity poker hosted by EFF, offering swag and pro-level tables.
For more information
Note: Open with donation
EFF Tech Trivia Night
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM, August 9
Where: Contest Stage
About: Trivia game night from EFF with security questions and casual vibes. More info
Queercon
Time: August 9 (Evening)
Where: Forum Tower (DEF CON area)
About: This is a dance party and inclusive meetup for the LGBTQIA+ hacker community. Follow queercon.org or their Discord for RSVP details.
Note: Event times and details are based on available listings as of July 2025. Check each RSVP link for the most up-to-date information!
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