When will Happy Valley Casino open? It’s getting closer — with new signs, lights
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Exterior signs and lights installed; grand opening expected in April.
- Casino must hold about two PGCB test nights to verify operations and taxable revenue.
- Will feature up to 600 slots, 30 table games, plus full-service and quick-serve dining.
New exterior signs and standing lights have recently been installed outside of Happy Valley Casino, signaling the business is inching closer to its grand opening.
A casino spokesperson told the Centre Daily Times that a specific opening date has not yet been set, but the spokesperson said the grand opening is still expected in April. Mike Bloom, assistant township manager for College Township, intimated his understanding was the same.
“We are still on track for an April opening, but unfortunately can’t narrow down an estimated timeframe in which we’ll be announcing the opening date,” casino marketing manager Alaina Woelk said in an email Monday. “As for remaining work, there’s still more landscaping, accent lighting, and additional signage to come.”
According to a spokesperson from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the last hurdle for Happy Valley Casino to clear before officially opening is to hold about two testing nights — a bit like a soft opening — where gaming officials make sure the staff is properly trained, the taxable amount of revenue is correct at the end of the night, the slot machines are communicating with the central control system, etc. As long as there are no significant issues, the casino can choose to open within days of the testing ending.
Of the previous 17 commercial casinos that opened in Pennsylvania, PGCB Communications Director Doug Harbach said all 17 passed without issue.
“There are no additional matters that need more approval prior to Happy Valley Casino holding test nights,” Harbach added.
The mini-casino’s opening has been a long time coming. Plans first surfaced in September 2020, but construction was delayed for years due to a legal and bureaucratic quagmire that the casino’s owner ultimately won in 2024, with construction proceeding in March 2025.
According to officials, the mini-casino will initially include up to 600 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant and a quick-serve dining option. Supporters hope it will stabilize the Nittany Mall, revitalize the area and create hundreds of jobs. Opponents have raised concerns about gambling addictions and placing a potential strain on first responders.
