Grand opening date announced for Hard Rock Casino Rockford

Illinois Gaming Board officials have greenlighted the Hard Rock Casino Rockford for an Aug. 29 grand opening.

A "star-studded guitar smash in Hard Rock tradition" is being planned to celebrate the grand opening, according to a news release.

Doors will open to the public at about 3 p.m.

“The economic impact of this casino will provide hundreds of new jobs and boost the entertainment options for anyone living near or visiting Rockford," Hard Rock International Chief Operating Officer Jon Lucas said in the release. "We are thrilled to welcome this new property to our global portfolio of over 300 Hard Rock venues.”

The new 175,000-square-foot casino resort at 7801 E. State Street at the Interstate-90 exit will feature about 1,300 slot machines, 44 live table games including a poker room, a sportsbook, six restaurants and a Hard Rock Rock Shop. It will also feature a Hard Rock Live venue with about 1,600 seats for concerts and performances.

Although the Illinois Gaming Board has approved the opening date, casino equipment and systems must pass regulatory tests before final authorization is given for the actual opening.

Casino officials are working to hire more than 400 additional employees to staff the new casino. Anyone interested in what is available or in applying should visit GoToWorkHappy.com.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford President Geno Iafrate said casino team members are what made the temporary Opening Act location a success and are putting in the work to make the permanent location a success as well.

"It's been 30 years in the making for Rockford and the wait is over," Iafrate said in the release. "We are excited to welcome guests to our house to showcase and expand the legendary Hard Rock brand.”

Jeff Kolkey writes about government, economic development and other issues for the Rockford Register Star. He can be reached at (815) 987-1374, via email at [email protected] and on X @jeffkolkey.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: 'Guitar smash' planned for opening of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford