Delaware Casinos Return to 24/7 Operations as iGaming Thrives
Two casinos in Delaware have recently announced that they are resuming around-the-clock operations for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic led to reduced hours. Bally’s Dover Casino & Resort is one of the casinos that are now open 24/7. The casino’s slot machines, table games, and sportsbook are once again available around the clock. This change follows Delaware Park Casino’s decision to bring back 24/7 gaming in January.
Nicholas Polcino, the General Manager of Bally’s Dover, expressed his excitement about the return to 24/7 operations, stating that it reflects the casino’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience and meeting the needs of the community. The casino was previously closed between 4 am and 8 am Monday through Thursday but was open 24 hours on weekends. Polcino mentioned that the extended hours are made possible by hiring 100 new employees, many of whom are trained to deal cards. Table games will be available based on demand during early morning hours.
Harrington Raceway & Casino, the third casino in Delaware, currently operates from 8 am to 4 am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends. In addition to the return of 24/7 operations, the iGaming sector in Delaware has been experiencing significant growth.
Last August, BetRivers became the new iGaming and sportsbook partner of the Delaware Lottery, following 888 Holdings ending its partnership with the state lottery. BetRivers’ online sportsbook expansion has led to a surge in new account registrations and higher monthly iGaming and sports betting proceeds. In June, the monthly gross gaming revenue from interactive slots and tables exceeded $5 million for the first time in the history of Delaware’s iGaming market, representing a 28% increase from the previous month.
Studies have shown that online casinos complement traditional brick-and-mortar play. A report by the Analysis Group revealed that states with regulated iGaming, including New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Michigan, and Connecticut, experienced an increase in land-based casino revenue after the introduction of online casino gambling. The study concluded that land-based casino revenue rose by approximately 4% following the legalization of iGaming.
The growth of iGaming in Delaware not only benefits the casinos but also contributes to the state’s General Fund, with 56% of the online win directed to the fund. The remaining 44% is divided between BetRivers and the originating casino. As casinos resume 24/7 operations and iGaming continues to thrive, the future looks promising for Delaware’s gaming industry.
