Gambling in the USA
With The Kickoff Of Football Season, Pennsylvania’s Sportsbooks Generate $109 Million Handle
Pennsylvania bettors jumped at their first chance to legally bet on football, pushing the state’s online and retail sportsbooks to new heights. In all, Pennsylvania sportsbooks attracted a record $109 million in bets in August, offering a first glimpse into the power of football betting, according to PlayPennsylvania.com analysts.
“Sports bettors almost universally bet on football, so it is no surprise that even with just one full week of college football games and NFL futures to bet on, that Pennsylvania would experience a significant uptick,” said Jessica Welman, sports betting analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “But with the NFL season now underway and more sportsbooks online, August’s successes are just a precursor to much bigger things ahead.”
According to official data released on Monday, the handle from online and retail sportsbooks was up 84% from the previous record of $59.3 million set in July. Combined, online and retail bets yielded $9.9 million in revenue in August, up from $5.1 million in revenue in July. August’s “win” injected $2.1 million into state and local government coffers.
The four online sportsbooks that operated in Pennsylvania in August grabbed an increasing share of the total sports betting market. Online bets increased from $39 million in July to $83.2 million in August, representing 76% of the state’s total handle, up from 65.7% in July. By comparison, about 85% of sports bets in New Jersey are made online.
“Online betting in Pennsylvania will continue to increase its share of the state’s handle to a level on par with New Jersey,” Welman said. “To that point, the early-September launch of Fox Bet — the first major sports media-branded betting site in any state — is an interesting development that should gain bettors’ attention. And other online sportsbooks are planning on launching this fall.
The growth of FanDuel Sportsbook at Valley Forge Casino, which enjoyed its first full month of operation in August, is another key reason why the future of online sports betting is bright. FanDuel — a brand that dominates both the retail and online markets in New Jersey — attracted $35.3 million in online bets in August, yielding $2.9 million in revenue and overtaking SugarHouse Casino as the market leader. SugarHouse generated $25 million in online bets, up from $22.2 million in July. That generated $1.7 million in revenue for SugarHouse.
SugarHouse and FanDuel were followed in the online market by:
- Rivers ($16.9 million online handle, up from $9.9 million in July; $1 million online revenue, up from $773,642)
- Parx Casino ($6 million online handle, up from $3.6 million; $620,573 revenue, up from $333,070)
SugarHouse took the retail market lead in August, accepting $5.4 million bets, up from $4.3 million in July. That yielded $816,768 in revenue. SugarHouse was followed by:
- Parx ($5 million handle, up from $3.6 million; $722,945 revenue, up from $414,730)
- Rivers ($4.9 million handle, up from $4.4 million in July; $631,012 revenue, up from $384,576)
- Valley Forge Casino ($2.5 million handle, up from $1.8 million; $175,330 revenue, up from $168,146)
- Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course ($2.1 million handle, up from $1.8 million; $309,171 revenue, up from $196,188)
- South Philadelphia Race and Sportsbook ($2 million handle, up from $1.9 million; $337,680 revenue, up from $150,074)
- Harrah’s Philadelphia ($1.9 million handle, up from $1.7 million; $251,296 revenue, up from $186,574)
- Presque Isle ($1.2 million handle, up from $162,781; $282,384 revenue, up/ from $45,469)
- Oaks Race and Sportsbook ($942,856 handle, up from $789,502; $48,230 revenue, down from $110,553)
“Even if FanDuel’s ascension is all but inevitable, its first full month in the online market was impressive,” Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “To take over the market lead so quickly shows the strength of the FanDuel brand. However, competition for market supremacy should remain fierce.”
Online casinos post strong first full month
SugarHouse, Parx and Penn National casinos enjoyed their first full month of online casino games in August, and generated $3.4 million in gross revenue on $111.8 million in wagers. That is up from $812,306 in July revenue and $49.2 million in bets. The revenue injected $985,155 into state coffers.
Sugarhouse led the way with $1.6 million in revenue on $40.9 million in bets, followed by Parx ($1.1 revenue, $53.1 million wagers), and Penn National ($684,452 revenue, $17.8 million in wagers). But as strong as August was, many more online casinos are in the works this fall, according to PlayPennsylvania.com analysts.
“It will take a few more months before we get a clear picture of Pennsylvania’s online gambling market, but the early returns are positive,” Gouker said. “This market should grow dramatically before the end of the year, working with online sportsbooks to grow exponentially in the coming months.”
For more information on the revenue generated by Pennsylvania sports betting, visit www.playpennsylvania.com/sports-betting/revenue.
About the PlayUSA.com Network:
The PlayUSA.com Network is a leading source for news, analysis, and research related to the market for regulated online gaming in the United States. With a presence in over a dozen states, PlayUSA.com and its state-focused branches (including PlayNJ.com and PlayPennsylvania.com) produce daily original reporting, publish in-depth research, and offer player advocacy tools related to the advancement of safe, licensed, and legal online gaming options for consumers. Based in Las Vegas, the PlayUSA Network is independently owned and operated, with no affiliations to any casino — commercial, tribal, online, or otherwise.
Gambling in the USA
Snoqualmie Casino Announces Exciting Rebranding to Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel Ahead of Major Expansion
Snoqualmie Casino has announced its rebranding to Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel, reflecting an exciting new chapter in the venue’s history as it embarks on a much-anticipated expansion. Set for completion in mid-2025, this project promises to elevate the guest experience, making Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel a premier destination for entertainment, relaxation, and culinary excellence.
The cornerstone of the expansion is the construction of a luxurious hotel, which will offer guests unparalleled comfort and stunning views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Mount Si. With a focus on sustainability and modern design, the hotel will feature upscale accommodations, a full-service destination spa, and amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Plus, there are architectural details inspired by Snoqualmie culture from a modern slant roof hotel design representing the original longhouses of the Snoqualmie Tribe’s ancestors to carefully chosen artwork placed throughout for guests to enjoy.
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel’s destination spa will offer an immersive escape that blends relaxation with the healing power of nature. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the spa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments. Experience the perfect blend of wellness and nature where luxury, tradition and innovation come together for an incredibly transformative experience.
“It is my honor and privilege to announce that Snoqualmie Casino has now become Snoqualmie Casino and Hotel. Over the past three years, the Snoqualmie Tribe and Casino have been diligently working to bring a one-of-a-kind, world-class hotel to the Snoqualmie Valley,” said Interim CEO Mary Lou Patterson.
In addition, Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel will expand its gaming floor, introducing an array of new options to enhance the entertainment experience for guests. This expansion will include the latest slots, electronic and traditional table games, as well as a dedicated high-limit gaming area for discerning players seeking a more exclusive gaming experience.
One of the highlights of the expansion is the development of a state-of-the-art 2000-seat entertainment and convention center. This versatile venue will host a variety of events, from concerts to conferences, positioning Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel as a key player in the region’s entertainment landscape. With cutting-edge technology and a focus on guest comfort, the center will attract top-tier talent and events, making it a must-visit destination.
In addition to the award-winning Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood, 12 Moons, and Falls Buffet, a new sports bar and grill will be introduced to provide patrons with the ultimate game day experience. Other new dining options, set to open later, will showcase local ingredients and flavors, ensuring a memorable culinary experience for guests.
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel recently launched a brand-new valet garage. The dual level indoor and outdoor structure, with 600 additional spaces, doubles the previous capacity for valet parking creating easier access into the casino. This is the first piece of new development at Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel that has opened for immediate use. The entire project anticipates creating numerous job opportunities for local residents, contributing to the economic growth of the Snoqualmie area.
Wind Creek Chicago Southland has announced that it will open to the public on November 11. The state-of-the-art casino represents the first step toward delivering a full-scale integrated resort experience, scheduled for completion in spring 2025.
Spanning an impressive 70,000 square feet, Wind Creek Chicago Southland features over 1400 slot machines, 56 table games, high-limit slot areas, a high-limit table games salon, a poker room, a dynamic sportsbook, and 4 “Hidden Gems” throughout the casino floor–offering visitors a unique and customizable private gaming and event microenvironment. Designed with an emphasis on curated entertainment spaces, this new offering aims to redefine leisure and hospitality for the entire region.
“The opening of Wind Creek Chicago Southland underscores our dedication to making a positive economic impact in the communities we serve. We’re committed to create opportunities that support the region, offer competitive benefits for Team Members, and further strengthen the vibrant Southland community,” said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of Wind Creek Hospitality.
Wind Creek Chicago Southland is expected to create more than 1000 full-time jobs in fields ranging from hospitality to technology. Roles will include security, gaming attendants, food service, IT technicians, and environmental services, reinforcing Wind Creek’s commitment to strengthening the local economy. Additionally, Homewood and East Hazel Crest will benefit from gambling revenue, along with 42 other south suburban communities—funding essential local services within the immediate and surrounding communities.
“Wind Creek Chicago Southland is more than a casino—it’s a community-driven destination. The Tribe and Wind Creek will continue to prioritize the Villages of Homewood and East Hazel Crest as we are committed to uplifting our neighbors,” said Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO, Poarch Creek Indians.
On Nov. 6th and Nov. 7th, the Illinois Gaming Board visited the casino for two mandatory test days, which also included an extended invitation to family friends and local dignitaries. Wind Creek Hospitality received notice of approval on Nov. 8th to operate on Monday, Nov. 11th at approximately 11:00 a.m.
The Nov. 11th opening marks only the beginning of what will become a flagship destination. High-limit gaming rooms, a hotel, spa, poker room, a sportsbook and more will be available for Guests seeking diverse experiences. Wind Creek’s partnership with Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group will also introduce an exceptional range of signature restaurants and food & beverage offerings to the highly anticipated property.
“Whether you’re looking for elevated dining, quick-service eateries, or something in between—you won’t be disappointed as we’re creating something truly unforgettable,” said Fabio Viviani.
“From the start, our mission has been to create jobs, spur economic growth, and offer the ultimate entertainment escape. We’re thrilled to welcome our Guests on Nov. 11th to experience the excitement firsthand,” said Roger Kuehn, EVP and General Manager of Wind Creek Chicago Southland.
Gambling in the USA
Spin Your Way to Political Fun in Slotland and WinADay’s Race for Office MegaMatrix Slot
The drama of the 2024 U.S. elections is here, and players can take advantage of extra bonuses to play Race for Office, Game of the Month.
Slotland and WinADay are bringing the excitement of the U.S. presidential election to life this month with the fan-favourite, Race for Office, packed with a wealth of bonuses.
Launched in 2020, Race for Office features a lively American theme with familiar political figures set against the U.S. Capitol. Updated for 2024, revamped to include Kamala Harris and Donald Trump with their running mates in a light-hearted style. With a 5-reel MegaMatrix setup and 15 paylines, players can bet anywhere from $0.60 to $30.
As the Game of the Month on Slotland and WinADay, Race for Office will be featured with special Match bonuses—55% at Slotland and 44% at WinADay. Players using cryptocurrency can enjoy a 75% Match on Slotland deposits of $5 to $500, and a 66% Match on WinADay deposits of $40 to $200!
Keep spinning to unlock a lucky PICK ME round and boost your balance with some extra campaign cash! Players who hit three PICK ME scatters, the handshake, can enter a bonus game. By clicking on tiles in a 5×5 grid, players can level up to higher prizes, creating a race to collect winnings until they hit the coveted ‘COLLECT’ sign.
Players can also enter a random draw for a chance to win up to $300. Every 100 spins earns a ticket for the Monthly Contest, with winners announced by December 17, 2024. It’s the perfect incentive to keep spinning as the political season unfolds!
Michael Hilary, Casino Manager, says: “This November, join Slotland and WinADay in the Race for Office and experience the fun of politics like never before. Spin the reels, claim your bonuses, and who knows—you might just land a jackpot that’ll have you celebrating like it’s election night!”
View a video version of this story
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