Bally’s Chicago marked a major construction milestone at its permanent casino site at 560 W. Grand Ave. with a topping-off ceremony celebrating the placement of the final structural beam. Once complete, the $1.7 billion development is expected to create approximately 3000 permanent jobs for the local community and is slated to open in spring 2027.

The event brought together Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Walter Burnett Jr., Bally’s Executive Chairman Soo Kim, union leaders, and members of the Chicago Community Builders Collective (CCBC), alongside trades workers building the project. To date, more than 1000 tradespeople have worked on the project, reflecting Bally’s investment in Chicago labor and the workforce behind one of the city’s largest active developments.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional signing, lifting, and placement of the final beam, marking a key structural milestone and drawing project partners together on site overlooking the Chicago River and skyline. The moment offered one of the clearest visuals yet of Bally’s future presence along Chicago’s riverfront.

“This is a significant milestone for Bally’s Chicago and reflects the incredible effort of the union trades and partners who have made this moment possible. We’re proud of the progress to date and excited to move into the next phase as we deliver a one-of-a-kind destination for the people of Chicago,” said Soo Kim.

The $1.7 billion development is part of a 30-acre redevelopment of the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site, which will be transformed into a riverfront destination reconnecting River West and the Near West Side to the Chicago River, improving public access, and activating the river’s edge.

Bally’s is also releasing new renderings showcasing key elements of the project’s interior design and guest experience. Bally’s Chicago has engaged WATG to lead the design of the casino interiors, shaping gaming, entertainment, and social spaces within the larger destination.

The Plaza Hotel & Casino will again host downtown Las Vegas’ biggest party to celebrate Cinco de Mayo starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Plaza Hotel & Casino with lights on the outside Description automatically generatedMay 5, in and around its iconic Carousel Bar.

The Plaza’s Cinco de Mayo party is free to attend and will now feature Vegas’ popular DJ Exodus as the party’s entertainment. He will be spinning top radio hits with a mix of Latin music, all under the bright lights of the property’s iconic Main Street dome. DJ Exodus is known as one of the top resident DJs in Las Vegas playing at various venues as well as celebrity events.

The high-energy fiesta will also feature downtown’s largest piñata. Guests will be able to commemorate their fun by taking selfies inside the Plaza’s photo house that will include various festive props.

Fresh churros will be available for purchase from Churros 101 as well as street tacos and Mexican street corn salad (Esquites) from Fresh Mexican Grill.

Carousel Bar will offer holiday drink specials all night long, including Modelo Draft 16 oz ($11), Modelo Michelada ($14), Mi Campo Margarita ($14), Mi Campo Blanco Shot ($10), and Mi Campo Reposado Shot ($12).

Next to Carousel Bar, Pinkbox Doughnuts will feature fun and delicious Cinco de Mayo-themed doughnuts.

For more information visit: plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/cinco-de-mayo/.