CHICAGO, April 18, 2025 –Accel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: ACEL) (“Accel” or the “Company”), a leading provider of full-service gaming solutions to local businesses across the U.S., today announced the soft opening of its first Illinois casino, Fairmount Park Casino & Racing, effective April 18, 2025.
This marks Accel’s strategic entry into the locals racino market—prioritizing convenience, operational efficiency, and market accessibility. It aligns with Accel’s strengths in delivering exceptional player experiences, managing cash logistics, and navigating regulatory environments.
Fairmount Park Casino & Racing is hosting the opening of its casino on Friday, April 18, 2025, with doors opening to the public at 9 am. The 12,000 sq. ft. venue, located at 9301 Collinsville Rd., offers the latest and most in-demand slots and electronic table games. Guests can also enjoy the various amenities at Fairmount Park, including new concessions and extensive improvements to the Park’s racing infrastructure.
“We are thrilled to open our casino and showcase our park improvements, highlighting the hard work and dedication of our employees and partners,” said Vince Gabbert, Sr. VP of US Gaming and General Manager at Fairmount Park Casino & Racing.
“I would like to thank the Illinois Racing Board, the Illinois Gaming Board, the City of Collinsville, and our local elected officials for their guidance and partnership throughout our development of this historic property. We would not have been able to complete this casino and park improvements in less than 5 months without their support,” said Andy Rubenstein, Chief Executive Officer of Accel. “I would also like to thank Vince and his outstanding team of professionals for their dedication to getting us here. I am proud and excited about the future of Fairmount as a premier entertainment destination for the Metro East Area.”
Racing season begins Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Gates open to the public at 9 am, and the first race begins at 1:30 pm. Skydivers will kick off the festivities.
Fairmount Park is also partnering with the nationally recognized Fifty/50 Hospitality Group to develop and expand the food and beverage offerings across Fairmount. Guests will now have the opportunity to enjoy the scratch-made cuisine at three new concessions with a full-service restaurant and bar opening in June. The Fifty/50 Group will allow Fairmount Park the ability to cater to corporate events, casual parties, and everything in between as Fairmount continues to grow its footprint over the next few years.
Gabbert added, “This year also marks the 100th anniversary of our racetrack, giving us the opportunity to celebrate Fairmount Park’s rich history while looking ahead to an exciting new chapter.”