Happy Valley Casino will open its doors to the public for a limited preview later this month, giving visitors an early look at the long-awaited gaming venue inside the Nittany Mall in State College, Pennsylvania. The preview, referred to as “test days,” is scheduled for April 24 and April 25, with operating hours set from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on both days.

The event will take place during Penn State University’s Blue-White weekend, which typically draws significant crowds to the area. Organizers plan to use the opportunity to introduce the facility to residents and visitors while continuing staff training and operational preparations.

These preview days mark the first time the public will be able to step inside the mini-casino, which occupies the space formerly used by Macy’s at the mall. The project has been in development for several years, with initial plans announced nearly six years ago. A licensing process began in 2021, but faced delays after a competing party challenged the license. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) ultimately approved the license in January 2023, allowing construction to begin in 2025.

Testing Operations While Supporting Local Groups

State regulators require casinos to conduct test days before officially opening to ensure that all systems, procedures, and operations comply with gaming rules. During these sessions, all gaming equipment and services will be fully operational as staff continue to refine the overall experience.

Visitors who attend will have access to slot machines, table games, and dining options. According to organizers, the event is open to individuals aged 21 and older.

In addition to serving as a trial run, the two-day event will raise money for community organizations. All proceeds generated during the test period will go to the State College Food Bank and the YMCA of Centre County.

Eric Pearson, general manager of the casino, emphasized both the operational and community aspects of the event. “The Test Days are an exciting milestone for our team,” he said in a company press release. “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.”

Years in Development Near Completion

The upcoming preview signals that the project is nearing its final phase before opening. After the test days conclude, officials expect to announce an official launch date.

The casino is classified as a Category 4 facility and is expected to open in spring 2026, pending all regulatory approvals. Plans for the property include hundreds of gaming options, with approximately 600 slot machines confirmed and capacity for up to 750, along with 30 table games. The venue will also feature food and beverage services, including a full-service restaurant and quick dining options.

Developers designed the test days to allow guests to experience the full scope of the property while helping staff finalize operations. Attendees will effectively participate in the final preparation stage as the casino team evaluates performance and adjusts procedures where needed.

With construction completed and regulatory steps underway, the April preview offers a key checkpoint for the project. Organizers intend for the event to both showcase the facility and ensure that it meets all operational standards before welcoming guests on a permanent basis.

Majority owner Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC based in New York, also owns and operates Saratoga Casino Hotel, in Saratoga Springs, NY; Saratoga Casino Black Hawk, located in Black Hawk, CO; and Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel in Natchez, Mississippi.