State College, PA – Happy Valley Casino is thrilled to announce its upcoming Test Days, taking place on April 24 and 25 from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. These special preview events are open to the public,offering guests an exclusive first look inside the new casino ahead of its official opening. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend.
During the Test Days, guests will have the unique opportunity to be among the first to experience Happy Valley Casino while assisting the team in fine-tuning the overall gaming experience. From slot machines and table games to a choice of dining options, attendees can enjoy a full preview of what the property has to offer—all while playing an important role in the casino’s final preparations.
In addition to the excitement on the gaming floor, the Test Days will serve a greater purpose. All proceeds from the two-day event will benefit the State College Food Bank and the YMCA of Centre County, helping to strengthen and support the local community.
These Test Days are a required step by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to ensure all operations and procedures meet established gaming regulations prior to opening.
“The Test Days are an exciting milestone for our team,” said Eric Pearson, General Manager of Happy Valley Casino. “We’re proud to welcome the community inside for the first time, not only to showcase what we’ve built, but also to give back to two incredible local organizations that make a meaningful impact everyday.”
The official opening date for Happy Valley Casino will be announced following the successful completion of the two-day test period.
About Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino is a Category 4 casino expected to open in Spring 2026 inside the Nittany Mall in State College, PA. Subject to all regulatory approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. For updates on the project visit hvcasino.com. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for free, confidential support 24/7.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
State College, PA – Happy Valley Casino is hosting open interviews for the upcoming Dealer School, with daily opportunities for interested applicants to join the growing team. Interviews are being held daily, 7-days a week 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Happy Valley Casino Hiring Center located in the Nittany Mall, Entrance B at 2901 E College Avenue, State College, PA. No appointment is needed.
Dealer School sessions begin soon with weekend classes starting December 20, 2025 and weekday classes starting January 5, 2026.
“Our first week of interviews brought in a strong group of candidates, and we’re excited to welcome them into the Happy Valley Dealer School,” said Steve Rinaldi, Director of Table Games for Happy Valley Casino. “There’s still plenty of room for new students who are ready to launch a rewarding career in gaming. This program offers a unique pathway into a fast-paced industry with high earning potential, and we encourage anyone interested to stop by and become part of the excitement.”
The 12-week program is designed to provide hands-on training in popular games including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat, and more. No prior experience is needed—just personality and a willingness to learn. Students accepted into the program will receive paid training, earning $3,600 over the 12-week course.
Happy Valley Casino will be hiring on the spot. Applicants can expect a brief interview and a short math assessment. Candidates are asked to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and documentation verifying eligibility to work in the U.S. (social security card or birth certificate) to begin the onboarding process if selected.
Dealer School graduates will become employees of Happy Valley Casino, scheduled to open in Spring 2026. For more information, visit the Happy Valley Casino Hiring Center during open interview hours.
About Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino is a Category 4 casino expected to open in Spring 2026 inside the Nittany Mall in State College, PA. Subject to all regulatory approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. For updates on the project visit hvcasino.com. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for free, confidential support 24/7.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
State College, PA – Excitement is growing in Centre County, PA as Happy Valley Casino today revealed the first official renderings of its highly anticipated entertainment destination, set to open in Spring 2026.
The newly released images offer a glimpse into the property’s bold architectural vision, featuring a dynamic blend of modern design, culinary experiences, and hospitality spaces that will establish Happy Valley Casino as a premier regional casino and entertainment hub.
“These renderings bring our vision for Happy Valley Casino to life,” said Eric Pearson, General Manager of Happy Valley Casino. “Every detail—from the welcoming exterior to the dynamic dining spaces—has been thoughtfully designed to create an unforgettable guest experience for the Happy Valley community and beyond.”
Designed by Nelson Worldwide of Philadelphia, the architecture and interior design create an atmosphere that appeals equally to visitors seeking thrilling gaming experiences and to locals looking for a special night out at their hometown entertainment venue.
The renderings highlight the property’s lively atmosphere, offering a blend of modern luxury and local character with many of the furnishings and woodworking designed and built locally. Construction has been underway since earlier this year and remains on target for the early spring opening.
Located in the former Macy’s space at the Nittany Mall, Happy Valley Casino will feature 94,000 square feet of gaming space, including 600 slots machines, 30 table games, a high limit gaming area, a quick-serve dining outlet and full-service restaurant. Guests will enjoy easy access from both inside the mall and dedicated exterior entrances, with ample parking directly adjacent to the property.
Once open, Happy Valley Casino is expected to create 350permanent jobs, generate nearly $20 million in annual wages, contribute $70–$90million to the regional economy, and provide over $1.5 million in local tax revenue each year.
About Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino is a Category 4 casino expected to open in Spring 2026 inside the Nittany Mall in State College, PA. Subject to all regulatory approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. For updates on the project visit hvcasino.com. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for free, confidential support 24/7.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
Free, Hands-on Training for High-Earning Casino Career
State College, PA – Happy Valley Casino is excited to announce that enrollment is now open for its free, new Dealer School, giving aspiring table games dealers the opportunity to train for an exciting career in the casino industry.
The 12-week program has two start dates: December 15, 2025 and January 5, 2026. The school is designed to provide hands-on training in popular games including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat, and more. No prior experience is needed—just personality and a willingness to learn.
Students accepted into the program will enjoy:
• Free tuition
• Paid training while learning
• Flexible day and evening class options
• Small group instruction and real-world simulations to build confidence and speed on the casino floor
“Whether you’re looking to jumpstart a new career, add extra income with flexible part-time hours, or step into a vibrant, people-centered profession, Dealer School could be your winning move. Professionally trained dealers have the potential to build rewarding careers with strong earning potential, and we’re proud to open the door to an industry that’s fun, flexible, and full of opportunity,” said Steve Rinaldi, Director of Table Games at Happy Valley Casino.
Dealer School graduates will become employees of Happy Valley Casino, scheduled to open in Spring 2026.
To enroll in dealer school visit hvcasino.com. Don’t miss your chance to join Happy Valley Dealer School and start your journey toward an exciting, rewarding career.
About Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino is a Category 4 casino expected to open in Spring 2026 inside the Nittany Mall in State College, PA. Subject to all regulatory approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. For updates on the project visit hvcasino.com. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for free, confidential support 24/7.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
Offering Fast-Track Training for High-Earning Casino Careers
State College, PA – Happy Valley Casino is thrilled to announce the introduction of its Dealer School, launching this October. Designed to prepare students for exciting, in-demand careers in the casino industry, the program offers hands-on, comprehensive training in popular table games including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat, and more—no experience required.
With flexible day and evening classes, the Dealer School is ideal for those seeking a full-time career or part-time work. Students will also gain valuable people skills, game knowledge, and insight into a dynamic, fast-paced industry.
“This school isn’t just about dealing cards—it’s about launching careers in a high-growth, high-energy industry,” said Eric Pearson, General Manager at Happy Valley Casino. “We’re preparing people not only to succeed in gaming, but to thrive in it.”
Happy Valley Dealer School is a 12-week program and is free to attend (once accepted) and students will be paid for their time while training. Training will include real-world simulations and small group instruction where students gain the confidence, speed, and skills to excel on the casino floor from day one.
“I began my career as a table games dealer at just 21, and each step along the way has led to meaningful growth and opportunity. Today, I’m proud to be leading the entire Table Games Department at Happy Valley Casino,” said Steve Rinaldi, Director of Table Games. “What began as an exciting, people focused job cheering players on, building energy at the table, and earning great tips—turned into a career filled with meaningful relationships and lasting opportunities. It’s given me the stability to grow, support my family, and build a life I’m proud of. If you’ve got personality, we’ll teach you the rest! This industry can change your life.”
Enrollment for dealer school will start October 1 with classes beginning December 15, 2025 and January 5, 2026. To enroll visit hvcasino.com.
Happy Valley Casino is expected to employ nearly 300 team members upon its anticipated opening in the Spring of 2026.
About Happy Valley Casino
Happy Valley Casino is a Category 4 casino expected to open in Spring 2026 inside the Nittany Mall in State College, PA. Subject to all regulatory approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. For updates on the project visit hvcasino.com. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for free, confidential support 24/7.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
College Township, Pennsylvania (May 29, 2025) –SC Gaming LLC is proud to announce the official name and logo of its forthcoming casino at the Nittany Mall: Happy Valley Casino.
The contemporary logo design reflects the modern vision and spirit of the future casino, while incorporating visual nods to the iconic valleys and mountains of the region.
“We feel that the name and logo pays homage to the rich history, picturesque landscapes and enduring spirit of the Happy Valley community that we are proud to be a part of,” said Eric Pearson, CEO of SC Gaming.
Construction of the casino is already underway and is expected to be complete by early spring 2026. Local State College construction company, Poole Anderson Construction, is the General Contractor on the Project.
“The Project is off to a great start, and we’re confident that once it is completed, we’ll deliver a premier experience focusing on fun, excitement, and hospitality that compliments Happy Valley and serves as a catalyst for further exciting development of the Dale Summit region around the Nittany Mall,” added Pearson.
In January, SC Gaming announced it had entered into a Framework Agreement with Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC to partner on the State College project, subject to pending regulatory approvals by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Also subject to all gaming approvals, Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option.
About SC Gaming
SC Gaming is wholly owned and led by Ira Lubert, a successful businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He has a proven track record in casino resort development, including the successful development of the Valley Forge Casino Resort.
Media Contact: media@hvcasino.com
Saratoga Springs, New York and College Township, Pennsylvania (March 4, 2025) – Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC and SC Gaming LLC have signed a framework agreement to develop and manage a Category 4 casino to open near the Nittany Mall in State College, PA, which remains subject to all regulatory approvals.
Construction of the casino is already underway and is expected to take approximately one year to complete. Subject to all regulatory approvals, the casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and several quick-serve dining options.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $120 million, and upon completion of the transaction, Saratoga Casino Holdings will acquire a majority interest in the property.
“We are excited to partner with SC Gaming and expand our footprint into the competitive Pennsylvania gaming market,” said Sam Gerrity, CEO of Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC. “This collaboration will allow us to leverage each of our strengths and deliver an unparalleled experience to our customers.”
“After years of delays, we’re overjoyed to be finally moving into active construction,” said Eric Pearson, CEO of SC Gaming. “After an intensive and expansive evaluation process, we’ve found the right partner with Saratoga, who shares our core values and a strong focus on guest experience. The pending partnership will help us build a casino the community can be proud of.”
Pearson, who has headed up the project since its inception, will continue with his role overseeing the development and operations of the planned casino.
About Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC (SCH) owns and operates Saratoga Casino Hotel, in Saratoga Springs, NY; Saratoga Casino Black Hawk, located in the historic town of Black Hawk, CO; and Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel, situated along the Mississippi River in Natchez, Mississippi. Combined, SCH properties include approximately 175,000 square feet of casino gaming space with over 2,100 slot machines, table games, a poker room and a sportsbook. SCH also offers multiple entertainment options including restaurants and bars, a harness track, two hotels, over 6,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, and a night club. SCH is also a partner with Delaware North Companies in the operation of Gideon Putnam Resort and Roosevelt Baths in Saratoga Springs, NY.
About SC Gaming SC Gaming is wholly owned and led by Ira Lubert, a successful businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He has a proven track record in casino resort development, including the successful development of the Valley Forge Casino Resort.
Media Contact:
Amy Brannigan
Corporate Director of Marketing, Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC abrannigan@saratogacasino.com
(518) 581-5721
