Gambling in the USA

Indiana Sportsbooks Launch New Year With Record January

Published

6 years ago

February 10, 2020

Image by David Mark from Pixabay

Spurred by basketball, bettors pour more than $170 million in bets into Indiana’s online and retail sportsbooks, according to PlayIndiana.com analysts

Indiana retail and online sportsbooks capitalized on basketball to post a record January and continue to firm up the state’s position as the nation’s fourth-largest legal sports betting market. And with the state enjoying its role as the sports betting capital of the Midwest and new online sportsbooks opening in time for the close to the college basketball season, Indiana could begin to put heat on Pennsylvania to become the nation’s third-largest, according to analysts from PlayIndiana.com.

“Indiana has built an impressive infrastructure that continues to maximize the market’s potential,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for PlayIndiana.com. “That should help keep the state a step ahead of its competition as neighboring states, such as Michigan, prepare for their own launches.”

Indiana’s $170.8 million handle in January was up 9.5% from the then-record $161.8 million in December, according to official reporting released Monday. Adjusted gross revenue from those bets was $12.9 million, up 9.3% from $12 million. That yielded $1.2 million in tax revenue for the state.

Interest in basketball was a catalyst in January, which also featured the NFL Playoffs and college football’s national championship game. Basketball boomed with $59.8 million in bets or 35% of the state’s handle. Football drew $36.7 million.

Online sportsbooks generated $123.4 million in bets in January. Online betting represented 72.2% of January’s handle, up from 69.5% in December. And more growth should come. PointsBet, BetIndiana, and BetMGM are all set for a February launch, bringing Indiana’s number of approved online sportsbook licensees to seven.

Indiana’s embrace of online betting, its near-monopoly of the Midwest, and close proximity to major out-of-state markets such as Chicago, have helped Indiana quickly position itself as the fourth-largest legal sports betting market in the U.S. While still well behind No. 3 Pennsylvania — a much larger state by the population that launched sports betting nearly one year ahead of Indiana — the Hoosier State is well-positioned for more short-term growth.

“Indiana has been remarkably progressive in the way it has managed its sports betting industry, rivaling New Jersey as the most forward-thinking legal jurisdiction,” Gouker said. “Early adoption of online betting, which has been atypical among states with legal sports betting, has been an enormous boost. And innovations such as allowing prop bets for the Super Bowl and opening the door to Oscars betting show Indiana is willing to take risks in opening new markets, which will serve the state well.”

The newcomers have a long way to catch market leader DraftKings, which operates under Ameristar Casino’s license. DraftKings posted a $66 million handle in January, down slightly from $66.7 million in December. That generated $4.6 million in gross receipts, down from $5 million. But FanDuel/Blue Chip Casino inched closer with a $49.5 million handle in January, up from $36 million. That resulted in a $1.9 million win, down from $2.2 million.

The market leaders were followed by:

BetRivers/French Lick Resort ($7.8 million handle, down from $7.9 million; $590,178 win, down from $528,200)
BetAmerica/Rising Star Casino ($89,622 handle, up from $2,129; $1,854 win, up from -$1,173)

Horseshoe Hammond’s proximity to Chicago continued to be a winner, leading the retail market with a $13.7 million January handle, up from $13.4 million in December. Those bets generated $1.8 million in gross receipts, up from $1.1 million. Horseshoe Hammond was followed by:

Hollywood Lawrenceburg ($7.8 million handle in January, down from $8.9 million; $578,993 win, down from $824,235)
Ameristar Casino ($7 million handle, down from $8.3 million; $1.4 million win, up from $928,211)
Harrah’s Hoosier Park ($5.4 million handle, down from $5.7 million; $321,785 win, down from $441,112)
Indiana Grand ($5 million handle, up from $4.6 million; $365,318 win, up from $208,275)
Blue Chip Casino ($2.7 million handle, down from $4.2 million; $$279,868 win, up from $186,802)
Tropicana Evansville ($2 million handle, even with December; $210,974 win, up from $185,176)
Caesars Southern Indiana ($2.4 million handle, up from $1.6 million; $143,966 win, down from $170,884)
French Lick Resort ($533,634 handle, down from $1.5 million; $14,132 win, up from $13,587)
Belterra Casino ($934,724 handle, down from $948,810; $8,077 win, down from $151,640)

“Proximity to Chicago is still a critical advantage in the retail market, but that could change when Illinois launches retail betting, which could happen as early as March,” Gouker said. “FanDuel has made progress in the online market, but it can’t quite overcome DraftKings’ head start. But with new operators coming, the online market could be shaken up, too.”

For more revenue information on Indiana sportsbooks, visit PlayIndiana.com/revenue.

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Carousel Bar Las Vegas

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Plaza Hotel & Casino’s Carousel Bar

Published

2 hours ago

March 10, 2026

Wladimir P.

celebrate-st.-patrick’s-day-at-the-plaza-hotel-&-casino’s-carousel-bar

The festive spirit of St. Patrick’s Day returns to downtown Las Vegas as the Plaza Hotel & Casino prepares to host its annual celebration at the dazzling Carousel Bar. Set beneath the venue’s iconic illuminated dome, the popular holiday gathering promises lively entertainment, themed cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

Beginning at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, the Carousel Bar will transform into a spirited St. Patrick’s Day destination featuring festive décor, upbeat music, and drink specials inspired by Irish tradition. The celebration takes place just steps away from the bustling Fremont Street Experience, making it an ideal stop for anyone exploring downtown Las Vegas during the holiday.

A Festive Downtown Celebration

Each year, St. Patrick’s Day brings an influx of revelers to Las Vegas, and the Plaza’s Carousel Bar has quickly become one of downtown’s standout locations to mark the occasion. Known for its visually striking design and lively ambiance, the bar sits beneath the Plaza’s glittering dome and features large-scale animated elements that create an immersive party atmosphere.

For the holiday celebration, guests can expect Paddy Party Music Hits filling the air, creating the soundtrack for an evening of Irish-inspired fun. The event will also feature festive backdrops designed for selfies and group photos, allowing visitors to capture memories of the celebration against colorful St. Patrick’s Day-themed visuals.

The Carousel Bar’s unique setting makes it particularly appealing for social gatherings, whether visitors are celebrating with friends, colleagues, or fellow tourists exploring the entertainment offerings of Fremont Street.

Special St. Patrick’s Day Drink Menu

No St. Patrick’s Day party would be complete without themed drinks, and the Plaza’s Carousel Bar will offer a lineup of festive specials designed to complement the celebration.

Guests can enjoy Guinness Draught for $8, a classic choice synonymous with Irish heritage and St. Patrick’s Day festivities worldwide. For those looking to sample something stronger, the bar will also offer St. Paddy Irish whiskey shots for $4, providing a quick and spirited toast to the holiday.

Another popular option on the menu is the Irish Car Bomb for $10, a well-known celebratory cocktail that combines Irish stout with whiskey and cream liqueur for a rich and indulgent experience.

For those who prefer a cocktail with a festive twist, the bar will feature the Irish Mule, a vibrant green drink made with ginger beer, Jameson Irish Whiskey, and fresh lime. Priced at $10, this specialty cocktail adds a refreshing and colorful option to the St. Patrick’s Day lineup.

Together, these drink specials provide a range of options designed to suit every taste while embracing the flavors traditionally associated with Irish celebrations.

A Unique Venue in Downtown Las Vegas

The Carousel Bar has become one of the most visually distinctive attractions at the Plaza Hotel & Casino. Its animated elements and glowing dome create a lively centerpiece that draws attention from visitors exploring the property and nearby Fremont Street.

During major holidays and events, the bar often becomes a focal point for celebrations, offering a social space where guests can enjoy themed entertainment and drinks in a lively environment. St. Patrick’s Day is one of the venue’s most anticipated events, bringing together locals and tourists eager to celebrate Irish culture and tradition.

The location also offers easy access to the Fremont Street Experience, one of downtown Las Vegas’ most popular entertainment districts. Visitors can seamlessly move between live music, street performances, casinos, and bars, making the Carousel Bar party a convenient stop within a larger night out in the city.

Capturing the Spirit of St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have grown into a global phenomenon, with cities around the world hosting parades, parties, and cultural events honoring Irish heritage. In Las Vegas, where entertainment and nightlife thrive year-round, the holiday provides yet another opportunity for venues to create immersive and memorable experiences.

The Plaza Hotel & Casino embraces this tradition by hosting an event that combines festive décor, themed drinks, and music that encourages guests to embrace the celebratory mood. The addition of photo-friendly backdrops further enhances the experience, allowing attendees to share their celebrations across social media.

For visitors seeking a lively but approachable party atmosphere, the Carousel Bar’s St. Patrick’s Day event offers a welcoming environment where the focus remains on socializing, enjoying drinks, and celebrating the holiday spirit.

A Downtown Destination for Holiday Fun

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, the Plaza Hotel & Casino once again positions itself as a destination for festive gatherings in downtown Las Vegas. The combination of themed cocktails, music, and the visually captivating Carousel Bar setting creates an experience designed to stand out among the city’s many holiday celebrations.

Whether guests are longtime Las Vegas locals or tourists exploring the city’s historic downtown district, the party promises an energetic environment filled with Irish-inspired charm.

With its vibrant atmosphere and convenient location near the Fremont Street Experience, the Carousel Bar at the Plaza Hotel & Casino provides the perfect setting to raise a glass, enjoy festive drinks, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in true Las Vegas style.

The post Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Plaza Hotel & Casino’s Carousel Bar appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Gambling in the USA

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Plaza Hotel & Casino’s glittering Carousel Bar

Published

2 hours ago

March 10, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

celebrate-st.-patrick’s-day-at-the-plaza-hotel-&-casino’s-glittering-carousel-bar

The Plaza Hotel & Casino will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day party at Carousel Bar under its iconic glimmering dome starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17.

The party at Carousel Bar will include Paddy Party Music Hits, festive backgrounds for selfies and group photos, and drink specials, including Guiness Draught ($8), St. Paddy Irish whiskey shot ($4), Irish car bombs ($10), and an Irish Mule, a specialty green cocktail made with ginger beer, Jameson Irish Whiskey, and lime ($10).

With its larger-than-life animated elements, Carousel Bar will be the centerpiece of the holiday party located underneath the glittering lights of the Plaza’s dome – the perfect location to celebrate the spirit of the Irish just steps away from the Fremont Street Experience.

The post Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Plaza Hotel & Casino’s glittering Carousel Bar appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Circa Resort & Casino

Downtown Vegas Alliance Partners with the City of Las Vegas to present a Successes & Insights Community Forum on the State of Downtown Gaming

Published

1 day ago

March 9, 2026

Wladimir P.

downtown-vegas-alliance-partners-with-the-city-of-las-vegas-to-present-a-successes-&-insights-community-forum-on-the-state-of-downtown-gaming

The Downtown Vegas Alliance has partnered with the City of Las Vegas to host a Successes & Insights Community Forum focused on the state of downtown gaming and hospitality.

The public event will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at the Las Vegas Civic Center, bringing together key leaders from the city’s gaming and hospitality industry to discuss growth, challenges and future opportunities in downtown Las Vegas.

Event Overview

The forum will begin with welcome remarks from Shelley Berkley, Mayor of Las Vegas. The discussion panel will be moderated by Andrew Woods of the UNLV Center for Business and Economic Research.

Featured Panelists

The panel will include several prominent figures in downtown Las Vegas gaming:

Jonathan Jossel – CEO of Plaza Hotel & Casino
Chris Latil – General Manager of Golden Nugget Las Vegas
Jeff Victor – Vice President at Circa Resort & Casino, The D Las Vegas and Golden Gate Hotel & Casino
Joe Woody – CFO of El Cortez Hotel & Casino

Event Schedule

Registration: 4:30 PM
Panel Program: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Networking Reception: 6:00 – 7:00 PM

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating.

Strengthening Downtown Las Vegas

The forum aims to provide valuable insights into the evolving downtown gaming landscape, highlighting the successes of local operators while exploring strategies for continued economic growth and tourism development in the heart of Las Vegas.

For broader coverage on Las Vegas gaming industry developments, see:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/