Sky River Casino Hosts Official Grand Opening Event
Sky River Casino held its official grand opening in a weekend long event beginning Friday September 16 with speeches by Wilton Rancheria officials and Boyd Gaming, followed by a traditional Awakening Ceremony on Saturday September 17 featuring lion dances and prize giveaways.
The indoor ceremony took place at the entryway near SR Prime Steakhouse. The two day event marks the casino’s official opening despite being open since mid August. Its early opening took the community by surprise when Sky River took to Facebook at nearly midnight on August 15 and posted, “Psst, you up? We‘re open!” The post was liked by over 1400 followers and shared over 900 times shortly thereafter. By morning, the 24-hour casino had well over 600 guests come through its doors.
Photos courtesy of Sky River Casino
Expanding Into the Future
Despite naysayers, many community members such as longtime Elk Grove resident, Randy Bekker, are embracing the casino opening.
“It is true the casino is not for everyone but that can be the same for other things in our city, said Bekker. “The future is what excites me as Sky River expands in the future and the 66 acres Boyd gaming owns next to the casino. For once, we are seeing progress instead of a ghost mall.”
“We should celebrate how Wilton Rancheria and Boyd gaming came together to give our city something better.”
– Randy Bekker, Elk Grove Resident
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Since its opening, business has been booming for the casino and many guests are already clocking in big wins.
In a recent press release, President and Chief Operating Officer, Chris Gibase said:
“The past month has truly exceeded our expectations and we are grateful to our guests who have come from near and far to visit, and our team members that have worked to make Sky River Casino the success that it has become. Now that we are open, we look forward to our continued partnership and support for the City of Elk Grove and the surrounding communities.”
Casino Features
Sky River boasts over 100,000 square feet of gaming space featuring 80 table games and 2,000 slot machines. Additionally, they feature 17 bars, along with a curated lineup of gourmet eateries. Also, the casino features a High Limit room where guests can experience a more intimate setting while placing higher than average bets.
“The casino will give to the tribe and their people who have had to fight to be recognized,” Bekker said. “Can you imagine having to prove to the government over centuries what was taken from you? Besides being excited for our city, I am excited for the Wilton Rancheria Tribe.”
To learn more about Sky River Casino, visit them online at www.SkyRiver.com.
