Casinos in Hollywood, specifically the land-based one in Joliet, make their grand entrance; viewed as both a regional hotspot and a notable culinary destination.
In the heart of Illinois, the Hollywood Casino Joliet has undergone a significant transformation, reopening its doors on Monday after a major renovation costing $185 million. The new land-based casino, built by Penn Entertainment, is now located near the crossroads of Interstates 55 and 80.
The casino, which originally opened in 1992 under the name Empress, has been a staple in the community for 30 years. Seven dedicated employees have been with the casino since its inception, witnessing its evolution over the decades. Penn Entertainment, now the proud owner of the Hollywood Casino Joliet since 2005, has demonstrated its commitment to the state of Illinois through this impressive investment.
The opening ceremony was marked by a traditional Chinese lion dance, and Jay Snowden, Penn Entertainment's President and CEO, was in attendance to celebrate the occasion. The casino's relocation, however, was not specified in the text.
In a strategic move, Penn Entertainment has secured a partnership with the Chicago Bears, one of the city's most beloved sports teams. This multi-year sponsorship deal includes several key components. The ESPN BET Sportsbook, a subsidiary of Penn Entertainment, has become an official sports betting partner of the Chicago Bears. This partnership is part of a broader strategy to engage with major local fan bases, leveraging the brand's digital presence and ESPN's media platform.
Both the Hollywood Casino Joliet and Hollywood Casino Aurora, expected to open in the first half of 2026, have become official casino partners of the Bears. The new Hollywood Casino Joliet, which replaced the previous riverboat casino, offers a significant upgrade in local gaming offerings. The Hollywood Casino Aurora is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike.
As part of the deal, Penn Entertainment gains various entitlements, including IP rights to use Bears branding, in-stadium signage at Soldier Field, and an in-game Hollywood Casino feature during Bears games. This partnership also includes digital marketing integrations and team-related experiences for fans.
This partnership is well-timed, coinciding with the opening of the new Hollywood Casino Joliet and the upcoming NFL season, providing Penn Entertainment with opportunities to engage with a large and passionate fan base. The Hollywood Casino Joliet is located in Joliet, Illinois, and the exact location of the relocation is not specified in the text.
- Despite the casino's rich history in casino-and-gambling culture, Penn Entertainment, via the new Hollywood Casino Joliet, is venturing into the world of sports by partnering with the Chicago Bears, showcasing a commitment to the local American-football community.
- The strategic alliance between Penn Entertainment and the Chicago Bears, extending beyond casino-games, will bolster the ESPN BET Sportsbook's presence through official sports betting partnerships, thus broadening its fan base.
- Coinciding with the NFL season, the new Hollywood Casino Joliet, located in Joliet, Illinois, is poised to capitalize on the passion of football fans, as it partners with the Bears, creating enticing opportunities for both parties.
