Arkansas's first stand-alone casino stands alone at the top of the state's revenue figures for December, and the timing is perfect.
In a significant milestone for the Saracen Casino Resort, December marked the highest monthly revenue to date, with over $19.5 million in gross gambling earnings.
This is good news for its operators, especially since December is typically a quieter month for casinos. Moreover, the Saracen Casino expansion project is nearly complete.
It's also the casino where a record jackpot was paid out on a Whitney Houston slot machine last year.
A December to Remember in Pine Bluff, Arkansas
The Saracen Casino Resort is a popular entertainment spot in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, owned by the Quapaw Nation. As the state's first stand-alone casino, it offers over 1,600 slot machines, around 40 table games, a poker room, and both online and in-person sportsbooks.
Discussions about legalizing online casinos in The Natural State stalled last year.
But December's record-breaking revenue is not just a financial victory but also a sign of its strong position in the market.
The casino's management sees this success as proof of a strong demand for what they offer. This success story is important for gaining the trust of lenders, improving credit ratings, and crafting marketing strategies as the casino prepares to expand.
Once the new hotel opens, the casino plans to encourage longer visitor stays and increased spending. They believe this could help Arkansas's casino tax revenue reach $120 million each year. Carlton Saffa, Chief Marketing Officer, noted that the casino continues to thrive with more visitors and spending, even in slower months.
This strong performance sets the stage for the upcoming major expansion.
Saracen Casino: The Latest on Construction
What's even more exciting is that the Saracen Casino Resort is in the final stages of a major expansion project that will see a new multi-hundred-room hotel and a 1,600-seat event center added to its offerings.
The latest updates suggest a targeted opening in March 2026.
Already a significant economic driver in the region, Saracen Casino Resort is expected to push employment to over 1,000 jobs with this expansion.
Local tax distributions are substantial, benefiting Pine Bluff and Jefferson County. The casino's growth, especially with the addition of mobile and retail betting, indicates a broader upward trend in Arkansas' casino industry. This record month, pre-hotel launch, also signals increased competitive pressure on in-state rivals like Oaklawn.
Saracen Casino's Strong December Performance Signals Growth
Saracen Casino showed strong results last month, even before the new hotel rooms opened.
This means that when the hotel and event center welcome overnight guests, the casino's success could grow even more. By sharing this information with the Pine Bluff Small Business Association, Saracen highlights how the expansion will benefit local businesses and tourism. It shows that Saracen is set to become a key part of the area's economy.
The Saracen Casino Resort is also on the brink of big changes with its upcoming expansion.
Although there have been some small delays, which are normal for large projects, the resort is on track to become a top attraction. With record earnings and a planned opening in spring 2026 for new features, the Quapaw Nation's investment in Arkansas promises great benefits for both the local economy and community.
