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The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board confirmed that it awarded Saratoga Casino Holdings a gaming license last week. It was made official in a separate vote later, the PGCB told PlayPennsylvania.
Saratoga Casino Holdings is now the the majority owner of the newest property, Happy Valley Casino, which is scheduled to open in April 2026.
New owner officially welcomed to PA
Saratoga Casino Holdings is a New York-based company that holds gaming licenses in New York, Mississippi, Colorado and now Pennsylvania.
The company’s entrance into the Keystone State has been in the works since early 2025, with its sights set on operating Happy Valley Casino. Sam Gerrity, CEO of Saratoga Casino Holdings, said in a statement:
“As a third-generation, family-run business with more than 80 years in the horse racing industry and 20 years in casino, hotel, and entertainment operations, we are extremely proud to receive our Pennsylvania gaming license.
“This milestone further expands our diversification within the gaming industry and reflects our long-standing commitment to operating best-in-class gaming facilities. Our strategy is centered on building strong relationships with our customers, team members, and the communities we serve.”
How we got here
The opening of Happy Valley Casino has been a long-time coming. The PGCB awarded it to previous owner SC Gaming, owned by Ira Lubert, back in September 2020.
Four years of litigation ultimately ended in the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling in favor of the PGCB’s decision, which set the stage for the new property.
Lubert then sold the majority of his stake to Saratoga Casino Holdings. It became official during a June PGCB meeting. That gave Saratoga Casino Holdings 60% ownership and the control to develop and manage the project.
The PGCB approved Happy Valley Casino’s slot and table games licenses last month. The property is expected to open with 600 slots and 30 table games.
There are plans of expanding should the supply meet the demand.
