Illinois: Hard Rock to hold grand opening for permanent Rockford casino on August 29

Hard Rock International has revealed that the grand opening date for the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford will be Thursday, August 29th, 2024. Following "a star-studded Guitar Smash," in Hard Rock tradition, the doors will open to the public at approximately 3:00 PM local time.

"I'd like to thank the Rockford community and State of Illinois for welcoming Hard Rock and our unique brand of world-class entertainment to the greater region," said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International.

"The economic impact of this casino will provide hundreds of new jobs and boost the entertainment options for anyone living near or visiting Rockford. We are thrilled to welcome this new property to our global portfolio of over 300 Hard Rock venues."  

The new casino, located immediately off the I-90 State Street exit at 7801 E. State Street in Rockford, will boast more than 175,000 square feet of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality space, including nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games including a poker room, a sportsbook, six restaurants, and a Rock Shop offering Hard Rock merchandise and more.

"We are extremely proud of our team members who helped make our initial Opening Act location a success, and we welcome all those new to the team who have worked so hard preparing for this long-awaited day," says Geno Lafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

"It's been 30 years in the making for Rockford and the wait is over. We are excited to welcome guests to our house to showcase and expand the legendary Hard Rock brand."

One of the highlights of the new casino is the Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, spanning 23,000 square feet, accommodating up to 2,000 guests for concerts and performances.

Ahead of the casino's opening, Hard Rock is hiring more than 400 additional people to staff its new property. Interested parties are encouraged to visit GoToWorkHappy.com.

Earlier in May, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming were selected as a 2024 US Best Managed Company, an award sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. This is the fourth consecutive year the companies have received this award, which recognizes the achievements of US private companies and the successes of their management teams.