Hard Rock Casino Rockford celebrates grand opening

(PRESS RELEASE) -- After a star-studded grand opening event, the long-awaited over $300 million Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened its doors to the public at 3 p.m. Thursday. The new 175,000-square-foot casino is located just off the I-90 State Street exit in Rockford.

Never been to a grand opening like this, but it’s a pleasure to smash a few guitars as we officially open the doors to the Hard Rock Casino Rockford. pic.twitter.com/2lP7IdxcV2

— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) August 30, 2024

The sprawling entertainment complex includes nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games including poker, a sportsbook, and a 1,600 seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue that is already drawing world-class talent. From casual dining to upscale options, guests can enjoy seven unique eateries. The Rock Shop offers a variety of custom Hard Rock branded merchandise, and dozens of authentic music memorabilia items decorate and fill the display cases throughout the casino, each with a classic story of its unique place in entertainment history.

The grand opening event featured a star-studded lineup including Rockford native and Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Hard Rock International COO Jon Lucas, Rockford native and Houston Rocket point guard Fred Van Vleet, Seminole Tribe of Florida Council Members, Rockford notables and special guests.

"It's an incredible feeling to finally welcome guests to Hard Rock Casino Rockford. The opening of this incredible entertainment powerhouse is the culmination of hard work, dedication, and a shared vision," said Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. "We've worked tirelessly to bring this world-class facility to life, and we're excited to offer guests a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience right here in Rockford."

The grand opening celebration featured an array of exciting events including pyrotechnics, Rick Nielsen's guitar talent, the Chicago Blackhawks national anthem singer Jim Cornelison, and a tribute to 10 World War II veterans all over 100 years old. The festivities concluded with Hard Rock's signature "guitar smash."

"Rockford is celebrating a huge win today with the opening of the long-awaited and much-desired casino. Hard Rock delivered on every promise from its initial bid nearly five years ago to the opening of its temporary location and its commitment to the Rockford community," said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. "As the doors to the permanent casino open, I'm thrilled to welcome our residents and visitors to this incredible facility full of world-class gaming, dining and entertainment."

The opening weekend celebration continues with a concert lineup:

- Friday, 30 August: Akon
- Saturday, 31 August: Joan Jett and The Blackhearts
- Sunday, 1 September: Brad Paisley

Concerts will be performed in the Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, a 23,000-square-foot space designed to host a variety of performances. With a capacity of up to 2,000 guests, this venue is set to become a premier destination for live entertainment in the region.