The new normal continues to take shape in Pennsylvania on the downslope of the virus pandemic.
Three casinos are now reopened, all with safety protocols, which you can read about in detail. All are in the western end of the state, where infections were lighter.
Online casinos continue to grow, along with a mix of attractive new promos, bonuses, and games.
All six horse tracks are poised to resume racing without spectators, four facilities have announced firm resumption dates, and the first race goes off Monday at a harness track in southwest PA. The first thoroughbred race is set for next Friday. Record betting handles have been the norm recently as gambling on racing has filled the sports betting void.
And the Mega Millions jackpot hit for the first time since February. And while the $410 million winner hails from Arizona, two PA residents are now big winners, too.
Three casinos reopened by week’s end
Rivers Casino Pittsburgh re-opened on June 9, with new safety protocols including social distancing, more sanitizing stations, and increased cleaning. The Meadows followed a few hours later. And Lady Luck Nemacolin opened Friday.
Online casinos adding incentives in the meantime
PA now has 10 online casino options. The online casinos continue to strengthen their offerings for PA players, including adding new games regularly.
Ready to resume racing
After a near three-month state-ordered shutdown, race tracks are finally on course to race again.
The Meadows is looking to start harness racing on Monday, June 15 and June 19 is the confirmed date for racing at Penn National. Mohegan Sun Pocono plans to resume racing on June 20. And Parx is looking to race on June 22.
Harrah’s Racetrack and Presque Isle Downs have no confirmed restarting dates as of yet.
Mega Millions lived up to its name
A single lucky ticket sold in Arizona matched all six Mega Millions numbers drawn on Tuesday night for a jackpot win of $410 million, or $316.8 million if collected in a lump-sum cash payment. That’s the 11th highest amount ever.
Locally, two PA players matched the five white balls, good for $1 million each.
Tickets are available at retailers and from the iLottery.
