Gambling in the USA

PlayPennsylvania.com: Sportsbooks generate $350 million in bets as momentum grows

Published

6 years ago

February 20, 2020

Keystone State’s momentum continues with record handle and revenue as more online casinos launch, according to PlayPennsylvania.com

A record-setting January pushed Pennsylvania’s online and retail sportsbooks past $100 million in lifetime revenue. But even with a strong start to the New Year, Pennsylvania still has much ground to gain to catch New Jersey and Nevada as the largest sports betting markets in the country, according to PlayPennsylvania.com.

“Pennsylvania’s momentum is growing, and January shows that the state’s sportsbooks can sustain it even as the NFL season winds down,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “Pennsylvania will likely remain the nation’s No. 3 market for the foreseeable future. But it is becoming clearer that it will one day challenge Nevada and New Jersey as the largest legal sports betting market in the U.S.”

Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks accepted a record $348.4 million in wagers in January, breaking the $342.6 million record set in December up dramatically from $32 million in January 2019, according to official data released Wednesday. $308.6 million, or 88.6%, of the state’s January handle came online.

January’s bets produced a record $31.6 million in gross revenue — up from $17.5 million in December. That produced $7.78 million in state taxes. With January’s gains, Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks have now generated $116.4 million in gross revenue since launching in November 2018.

Pennsylvania is still well behind New Jersey, which generated a handle of $540.1 million in January, and Nevada, which is expected to post a January handle of around $500 million. Pennsylvania’s $30.7 million handle for February’s Super Bowl was third behind Nevada ($154.7 million) and New Jersey ($54.2 million), another sign of the Keystone State’s current place in the sports betting pecking order.

“The opportunities for growth are abundant for Pennsylvania,” Gouker said. “Its population base is a huge advantage. Infrastructure issues have slowed the state’s development. But the industry is unquestionably getting past its growing pains.”

The gap between the top two online sportsbooks appears to be narrowing. FanDuel Sportsbook at Valley Forge Casino remains the market leader with $153.1 million January bets, down from $154.5 million in December. That yielded $8.1 million in taxable revenue, up from $7 million. But DraftKings at The Meadows grew to $58.7 million in January from $35.9 million in December. That produced $2.8 million in taxable revenue, up from $732,883.

DraftKings and FanDuel were followed by:

Rivers Philadelphia ($28.4 million in handle, down from $30.6 million in December; $2.2 million taxable revenue, up from $1.1 million)
Rivers Pittsburgh ($25.8 million in handle, down from $28.3 million in; $1.7 million revenue, up from $1.3 million)
Parx Casino ($21.3 million handle, down from $25.5 million; $2 million revenue, up from $779,529)
Fox Bet at Mount Airy ($15.4 million handle, down from $16.4 million; $1.3 million revenue, up from $312,658 in revenue)
Unibet at Mohegan Sun Pocono ($4.8 million handle, down from $6.1 million; $126,879 revenue, up from -$31,744)
Presque Isle Downs ($1.2 million handle, up from $129,556; $44,717 revenue, up from $28,700)

The online market could soon get a shakeup. Penn National Gaming announced that it has acquired a significant stake in Barstool Sports and with it, a recognizable brand for its online casino and sportsbook that will presumably launch later this year.

“DraftKings has been aggressively marketing itself in Pennsylvania, and it is making some headway in its attempt to catch up with FanDuel. But it still has a long way to go,” Gouker said. “Meanwhile, the expected launch later this year of the Barstool-branded online casino and sportsbook will add intrigue to a market that has been predictably controlled by the two most recognizable brands in online sports betting.”

The retail market was led by Rivers Philadelphia’s $7.4 million handle, down from $7.7 million in December. That yielded $1.1 million in revenue, up from $590,177. Rivers Philadelphia was followed by:

Parx ($6.7 million handle, down from $7.5 million; $875,269 revenue, up from $572,416)
Rivers Pittsburgh ($6.7 million handle, down from $7.5 million; $791,877 revenue, up from $518,743)
South Philadelphia Race and Sportsbook ($3 million handle, down from $3.3 million; $501,515 revenue, up from $328,651)
Harrah’s Philadelphia ($3 million handle, even with December; $219,597 revenue, up from $123,799)
Valley Forge Casino ($2.9 million handle, down from $3.6 million; $391,012 revenue, up from $107,145)
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course ($2.6 million handle, down from $3.2 million; $180,249 revenue, up from $112,277)
Presque Isle ($2.3 million handle, down from $3 million; $281,753 revenue, down from $217,870)
Mohegan ($1.9 million handle, down from $2.6 million; $137,702 revenue, down from $257,956)
Oaks Race and Sportsbook ($973,451 handle, down from $1.2 million; $97,394 revenue, down from $65,949)
Mount Airy ($732,813 handle, down from $814,931 handle; $81,793 revenue, up from $73,692 in revenue)

Online casinos continue growth

Online casino games and poker generated $14 million in January gross revenue, up from $10.6 million in December. That yielded $3.4 million in tax revenue for the state.

More importantly, the roster of online casinos grew to seven in January. FanDuel/Valley Forge Casino made a big splash with its debut on Jan. 24, generating $2.1 million during the remainder of the month. FanDuel was followed by the launch of BetAmerica less than a week later.

“The online casino market should get a real jolt from FanDuel’s entrance,” Gouker said. “Integrated within FanDuel’s market-leading sportsbook app, the FanDuel Casino is ideally positioned to leverage its success as a sportsbook into success as an online casino.”

Fanatics Casino

RLX Gaming expands US reach through Fanatics Casino launch

Published

4 days ago

March 12, 2026

Wladimir P.

rlx-gaming-expands-us-reach-through-fanatics-casino-launch

RLX Gaming, the innovative iGaming aggregator and content supplier, has officially launched its full portfolio with Fanatics Casino in the United States.

Players in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can now access RLX Gaming’s extensive library of in-house and third-party titles, following a soft launch in Pennsylvania. Leading slot hits like Temple Tumble, Bonsai Dragon Blitz, and The Great Pigsby are now live, alongside a broad selection of releases from some of the most creative studios in the industry.

Fanatics Casino, available in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia on iOS and Android, offers a wide variety of classic and modern casino experiences, including slots, blackjack, roulette, progressive jackpots, and video poker. Each game is designed to deliver authentic casino action, ensuring endless entertainment for players.

This partnership marks a significant step in RLX Gaming’s mission to deliver dynamic, globally-ready content that drives innovation and engagement in the online casino space.

Matthew Hockenjos, Commercial Account Manager for North America at RLX Gaming, said:

“Our collaboration with Fanatics Casino represents a major milestone for RLX Gaming as we strategically broaden our footprint across North America. Fanatics Casino’s commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re thrilled to bring our engaging slot experiences to players in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.”

Kieron Shaw from Fanatics Casino added:

“We are delighted to integrate RLX Gaming’s captivating portfolio into our platform. This partnership reinforces our dedication to offering a premier online casino experience, giving players access to high-quality titles with proven appeal across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.”

The post RLX Gaming expands US reach through Fanatics Casino launch appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Gambling in the USA

WWE and White Hat Studios Deliver WrestleMania®: Road to Gold Exclusively to Fanatics Casino

Published

4 days ago

March 12, 2026

Wladimir P.

wwe-and-white-hat-studios-deliver-wrestlemania:-road-to-gold-exclusively-to-fanatics-casino

WWE®, part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO), and White Hat Studios have announced the launch of the official WWE-branded slot, WrestleMania®: Road to Gold, exclusively on Fanatics Casino starting today.

Available in the United States, this real-money online casino game features 20 WWE superstars, including fan favorites Cody Rhodes and Rhea Ripley, just ahead of WrestleMania® 42, returning to Las Vegas on April 18–19, 2026.

The game’s Unlock Trail mechanic takes players through WWE Premium Live Events, with progressive bonus features inspired by SummerSlam®, Survivor Series®, Royal Rumble®, Elimination Chamber®, and Money in the Bank®. Each milestone builds excitement and win potential, culminating in the ultimate WrestleMania® showdown. The ringside experience is enhanced by the unmistakable voice of Michael Cole, adding authenticity and immersion to every spin.

Armen Tatarevic, VP of Gaming at White Hat Studios, said:

“WWE is an iconic brand steeped in entertainment history, and the aim was to collaborate closely to channel that legacy into WrestleMania®: Road to Gold. From superstar athletes to headline events, there are numerous touchpoints that fans will enjoy, and this is a major IP launch for White Hat Studios as we continue to deliver a main event experience to casino players in the United States.”

Conor Grant, President, Casino at Fanatics Betting and Gaming, added:

“WWE is a worldwide entertainment phenomenon, and the energy of the brand has been captured perfectly in WrestleMania®: Road to Gold. This new WWE-branded experience on Fanatics Casino reflects our strategy to leverage the power of Fanatics IP assets to offer customers a premium, differentiated experience.”

Fanatics Casino, the fastest-growing online casino in the U.S., is available on iOS, Android, and web in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. WrestleMania®: Road to Gold joins Fanatics’ lineup of licensed WWE titles, including WWE® Blackjack, Raw® Multiplier

The post WWE and White Hat Studios Deliver WrestleMania®: Road to Gold Exclusively to Fanatics Casino appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Carousel Bar Las Vegas

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

Published

6 days 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.