Casino Events: Everything You Need to Know

Non-gaming revenue plays a significant role in the success of betting-based businesses like casinos. During one year, non-gaming revenue on the Las Vegas Strip increased by 135.1%, according to the Gaming Control Board. With a massive year-over-year increase, non-gaming revenue accounted for 70% of the casinos’ total earnings. Thanks to dining, overnight rooms, entertainment, retail, and casino events, non-gaming income has become a profitable revenue stream.

In this guide, we’re exploring the impact events and entertainment can have on a casino and its success. We’ll examine various casino events, how they can benefit the business, and what your venue should be aware of when hosting them. Whether you’re interested in breaking into the meeting and events industry or casino entertainment reviews, you’ve come to the right place.

What are casino events?

In addition to operating as a gaming and entertainment destination, most casinos also serve as an event venue. From large-scale demand drivers (e.g., chart-topping musical performances) to small, private events (e.g., birthday or Christmas parties), they can accommodate a wide range of events. They may hold events at an attached special event venue, such as a concert hall or convention center, or inside the casino in a private event space. While some casinos have one room set aside for events, others have multiple meeting rooms or a complex event space that can accommodate numerous events simultaneously.

Many functions, like gambling tournaments and gaming competitions, take place on the casino floor, while other, more intimate events occur in reserved areas with exclusive access. Casinos may also offer private event packages, which include secured table access (i.e., three blackjack tables, two poker tables, and one roulette table), overnight rooms, dining credits, and other perks.

What types of events can casinos host? 

A casino may host various events, but venue facilities play a significant role in determining the types of functions the property can accommodate. Some of the most common casino events include:

  1. Entertainment events

Concerts, creative performances, and other entertainment events are considerable attendance drivers for casinos. Most casinos host more music events than any other type because they can charge high ticket prices, generate revenue from concessions, and draw massive crowds. By hosting several types of musicians and featuring different genres, casinos can appeal to multiple consumer demographics.

Casinos host a range of musical acts, including live music from original artists and tribute bands. Some events are one-night-only, which can create a profitable demand spike, while other casino events repeat over a period of time. Las Vegas is famous for its residency shows, which may last weeks, months, or years. Residency events are powerful revenue drivers, as tourists and fans flock from all over the world to attend.

In addition to musical entertainment, casinos host non-musical performances. Hosting stand-up comedians, magicians, acrobats, and other unique performers is a fantastic way for casinos to attract new visitors to their venue.

  1. Sporting events

Land-based gaming venues that host popular sporting events are more recognizable to the general public. Like musical events, hosting sporting events can help casinos appeal to a broader audience. Mixed-martial arts (e.g., UFC), boxing, professional wrestling (WWE), and other performative sports can attract diverse audiences.

Because many sports enthusiasts enjoy gambling, and with the recent push to legalize sports betting across the country, using athletics to attract customers to your casino could help turn them into loyal customers. Appeal to risk-takers with a competitive edge by hosting poker, slot, or baccarat tournaments after the match.

  1. Charity events

Casinos may use event space to host fundraisers for charities and non-profit organizations. In addition to promoting charitable works, hosting fundraisers is a wonderful way for gaming venues to strengthen their community reputation and introduce a new audience to their business.

From black-tie galas to charity concerts, casinos can use their space to raise funds and awareness. Organize a fundraising dinner and donate a portion of the proceeds to a local organization, or host a Battle of the Bands to raise money for community music programs.

  1. Private parties

Private events, including holiday parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings, are major money-makers for casinos. Properties with multiple event rooms may host numerous private parties on the same day. They may be held in designated event rooms, outdoor reception spaces (i.e., the terrace or patio), dining areas, or other casino facilities.

  1. Corporate events 

Although casinos are all about fun and games, they also make excellent corporate event venues. Small and large companies alike may look to your property for conference space, to host team-building events, or to accommodate a corporate retreat. Because many casinos supply food throughout the day, they are fantastic venues for all-day or multi-day events that require breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Invite corporate planners to host a business lunch at one of the casino’s restaurants or book a retirement party in the banquet room. Offer enticing discounts for large room blocks and create corporate retreat packages to attract large companies.

  1. Trade shows and conventions 

Businesses and corporations flock to gaming destinations like Las Vegas for conventions and trade shows. With world-class resorts, ample event space, bustling attractions, a surplus of dining options, and endless entertainment, gambling towns are fantastic locations to host an exciting event that provides attendees with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  1. Virtual events

In addition to in-person gatherings, many casinos host virtual events to attract new customers. From remote gaming tournaments and virtual promotions to social media challenges and live streams, online events have become crucial to effective casino and destination marketing.

Promote a virtual casino tour, host live Q&A sessions via video, or advertise hybrid event services that combine on-site and remote technology. Invite remote consumers to attend live events from the comfort of their own homes. Sell virtual tickets to high-profile events, such as concerts and title fights, to maximize their revenue potential.