Take a piece of Hollywood Casino at the Meadows HOME WITH YOU
Casino at the Meadows BRINGS IN EXCITING GAMES
Casino
IS BRINGING BACK THE VIBE
Hollywood
Hollywood
at the Meadows
Take a piece of Hollywood Casino at the Meadows home with you
By Michele Gillis
A new addition to The Eatery at the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, a deli, will offer healthier food options and grab-and-go items, including bread, deli meat, sides and other takehome options.
“One of the things with the deli that we’ve really transitioned to is sort of that health-conscious mindset,” said Adam Eckstein, the newly appointed vice president of food and beverage at the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows. “We wanted something fresh, healthy and gives guests a ton of options.”
Additionally, the deli will feature a market component, where guests can purchase fresh produce, salads, cheeses, breads and more.
“So, it’s really about how you can take a piece of Hollywood home with you,” said Eckstein.
The Eatery currently features four restaurants, offering a diverse range of options from great Italian eats and gourmet burgers to sweet and savory desserts, as well as excellent craft and draft beers.
Vice President of Marketing at Hollywood Casino at the Meadows, Kevin Brogan, said they were looking to add something with a more homey appeal, like a deli.
“We wanted somewhere guests could grab a sandwich, grab some potato or pasta salad or grab a cup of soup,” said Brogan. “We used to have a deli. It was called Silver Star Deli, and it was a great opportunity for guests to come in and grab a sandwich and a cup of soup.”
Brogan said that this deli will allow them to offer a different fare from what they currently offer.
“You might need some lunch meat or sides,” said Brogan. “Instead of stopping at a grocery store on the way home, you can grab a pound of pastrami or a tub of potato salad and
be on your way home. We’ve got you covered there, and we think there is some value.”
The deli will also offer catering for events, including deli boards, large orders of potato salad, coleslaw, broccoli slaw and more.
Brogan said they already see a lot of people walking out with huge pizza boxes and other take-out.
“I think pizza is one of the things our food court’s certainly known for,” said Brogan. “We know people are coming, hanging out and taking food home. Let’s give our guests another option to bring food home for the family.”
And as usual, guests can use their PENN Cash at this new eatery as well.
“We feel the deli will broaden the appeal of The Eatery as we offer a higher quality of grab-and-go fresh, healthier items,” said Eckstein.
Brogan explained that when the executive team was contemplating its vision for 2026, they reviewed all the food offerings and asked whether they were providing enough value to their guests.
“One of the holes that we thought we had was the cold cuts, potato, macaroni salad and coleslaw,” said Brogan. “It’s very much a regional thing in Pittsburgh. I think it is definitely part of every picnic. We thought it would strike a chord with the region.”
They wanted a space solely dedicated to something more niche.
“So, we thought since it was successful in the past, it could be new again for the property,” said Brogan. “It fills a space that we currently just don’t have any exposure with. A deli will provide those comfort-style foods.”
Eckstein explained that the market component will give guests a one-stop shopping experience. “You are going to be here anyway,” said Eckstein. “You are going to be gambling and
eating. So, if you want to take something with you that you can use for a long time, it’s not just a meal. That’s sort of what the concept was behind it.”
He said at one point they even discussed expanding into selling eggs and milk.
“You know, this kind of concept is sort of endless,” said Eckstein. “So, we can continue to build on that concept and offer our guests value, particularly with the current state, where we don’t know what’s going to happen with the stock market. We don’t know what’s going to happen with prices. Everything keeps going up, so how can we offer our guests some value there?”
Eckstein said guests can use their PENN Cash to purchase from the new deli and market, and they can spend their comps in a way that adds value not only to their experience there but also to their lives at home.
The deli will be located between Joe & Doe and Zen Noodle in The Eatery.
Eckstein said the deli should be operational closer to June, and when it is open, the hours will be 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., seven days a week.
Visit hollywoodmeadows.com/dining for more information.
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows brings in exciting new games
By Michele Gillis
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows is always seeking new and exciting ways to provide its guests with the best possible experience.
“We are always trying to keep up with the market,” said Wendi McGee, vice president of casino operations. “We want to make sure we have the most up-to-date machines and games out on the floor. Listening to guest feedback and what they would like to see is also very important.”
McGee said that, based on their research and guest input, they have decided to add three new slot machines and two new table games.
The first and brand-new slot game is “House of the Dragon, Fire Will Reign.” It is reminiscent of Game of Thrones and is located outside the Buffalo Lounge at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.
According to the manufacturer, Aristocrat, an adventure awaits you in House of the Dragon. Take your place in the battle for the throne in this brand-new slot game. Collect dragon eggs for your chance at five never-before-seen features. Should you unlock the Golden Egg, you’ll be rewarded with all five features.
“This one is kind of a play off of Game of Thrones,” said McGee.
The second new slot game on the floor is “Railroad Riches, Welcome to the Wild West,” and is located near the Poker Room at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.
McGee said the guests highly requested this game.
“You asked, we listened,” she said.
Manufacturer Aristocrat describes it as taking a train ride to enjoy “Railroad Riches” in this exciting new slot game. This Wild Westthemed slot is inspired by the railroads of 19th-century and features excellent cartoon graphics to set the scene.
Players can enjoy 20 paylines, wild symbols and free spins while country music plays in the background and cowboys and cowgirls award bonus features in this upbeat slot.
The third and possibly the most exciting new slot game is “Frankenstein Returns, New Hot Slot,” which will be located near the North entrance at
Manufacturer Light and Wonder said this highly anticipated installment of “Frankenstein Returns” promises to mesmerize fans, both seasoned and newcomers alike. Dive into an unforgettable, fully immersive adventure with our beloved monster, Frankenstein.
“The original Frankenstein was always a really big hit,” said McGee. “We never offered that, so this would be new to our gaming floor. Now we have the newest and the best of ‘Frankenstein Returns’ with additional bonuses.”
McGee said “Frankenstein Returns” is in the newest cabinet in the industry.
“So, if you go into a bonus, it lights up the entire cabinet,” said McGee. “It’s very immersive within the slot machine.”
In addition to the three new slots, two new table games will be added soon.
“Run’em Twice Poker” will be added in April.
This game is a unique five-card poker variant that lets players play two poker hands in a single game. It’s just you against the pay table, not the dealer or other players. “Run’em Twice Poker” offers the optional five-card bonus and ultimate pairs wagers.
“‘Run’em Twice Poker’ is interesting,” said McGee. “We have a game on our floor called ‘Crisscross Poker’. This is basically the exact same game with an additional side bet.”
The second table game is “Double Down Madness Blackjack”, the ultimate blackjack experience, but it is pending regulatory approval at this time.
It can be described as offering a unique twist to the traditional game of blackjack. Each player receives one card initially and can hit and double down as desired to boost payouts significantly. “Double Down Madness Blackjack” also offers the optional PUSH 22 bonus wager.
“We are constantly looking at slots and table games to see what is new and evolving to our guests’ needs,” said McGee. “Players are very attracted to the immersive experience within the slot machine games, and we try to give them exactly what they want.”
Visit hollywoodmeadows.com for more information.
the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows.
Hollywood Casino at The Meadows unveils exciting summer lineup
By Michele Gillis
This summer, get ready for an amazing lineup of awesome entertainers, events, a new pop-up bar and a celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Food Truck Festival at the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.
The 2026 Hollywood Event Series kicks off on May 2 with the Kentucky Derby Day party, where live Meadows Harness Racing will be on the track. Guests are welcome to join the party, donned in flamboyant hats, sleek dresses, fedora hats or whatever they choose to wear to celebrate the Kentucky Derby.
While you are celebrating, make sure you pay attention to the free car giveaway. Players have the chance to win either a 2026 Ford Mustang or a Ford Bronco. All Penn Play members get a free entry. Players can earn additional entries through playing on the property.
On May 2, we will have opportunities for PENN Play members to win a seat in the finale drawing,” said Jazzmen Holloway, director of marketing.
The winner of the car will be announced at 10 p.m.
After the Derby party, make sure to check out the new Vibe pop-up bar located at the back of the casino.
The following weekend, on May 9, we will have our first live boxing event of the season”.
The Greater Pittsburgh Food Truck Festival, hosted by the Observer-Reporter, will be held from May 22 to 24 and will be great fun for the whole family. It will feature over 50 food trucks and tons of vendors selling local arts, handcrafted and homemade items and merchandise.
“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Food Truck Festival at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, we’re taking everything our guests love and making it even bigger,” said Holloway. “With more than 50 food trucks, a wide variety of local vendors, and one of the largest Ferris wheels in Pennsylvania, this event has truly grown into a must-visit summer tradition. It’s more than
just great food, it’s an experience that brings the community together for an unforgettable day of flavor, entertainment and fun.”
During the Food Truck festival, there will be a family fun night with racing on Friday and live music on Saturday and Sunday.
The hours of the Food Truck Festival are Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 12 to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The summer concerts will be held indoors this year in the Events Center, and first up will be Rodney Carrington on June 11.
“Bringing Rodney Carrington back to Hollywood Casino at The Meadows was an easy decision for us,” said Holloway. “He’s proven time and again that he connects with our audience in a big way and not just here, but across the gaming industry.”
Moving the concerts to the event center creates a more intimate setting, as it is covered and holds just over 1,000 guests.
“Logistically, it is a better experience for the guests,” said Holloway. “The Event Center is connected to the gaming floor, which allows for a smoother transition inside after the event has concluded.”
Since the weather can be unpredictable, the Event Center helps them minimize concerns about its impact and focus more on having fun. The Event Center is covered, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite artists without worrying about rain or wind.
“Overall, the Event Center has proven to provide a clearer stage viewing experience compared to other outdoor concert venues on the property,” said Holloway. “The Event Center provides an intimate setting for guests to enjoy their favorite artists, creating an impactful and unforgettable night out.”
Rodney Carrington’s shows draw a large crowd, and Holloway is expecting to have a packed house this summer.
“His shows deliver that perfect mix of high-energy entertainment and un-
forgettable moments, which is exactly what our Event Center is all about,” said Holloway. “When an artist leaves guests talking about the experience long after the night ends, you don’t just bring them back, you make them part of your summer lineup.”
Another artist who is returning this summer in August is Aaron Lewis, featured in last year’s lineup.
“Welcoming Aaron Lewis back to Hollywood Casino at The Meadows is something our guests look forward to year after year,” said Holloway. “His past performances have consistently delivered an incredible turnout and an authentic connection with our audience that’s hard to replicate. When an artist resonates that strongly and continues to draw fans back to the property, it creates momentum for the entire summer concert series. We’re confident his return will once again be a standout event and a major driver of another successful season.”
Kevin Brogan, vice president of marketing at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, said there will be another show that same weekend. Josh Turner is another act returning, along with others not yet confirmed.
“This year, the casino is prioritizing the guest experience over the atmosphere. While the concept of an outdoor concert venue is appealing, what truly matters is creating a memorable experience for all guests,
not just those in the front rows.
Wine and beer enthusiasts get excited! Corks and Kegs will be held Aug. 28 through 30. Savor the local wine, spirits and brewery creations while enjoying live music from local bands throughout the weekend.
“Our summer event lineup is intentional. It’s about creating energy, giving people a reason to come together, and turning every visit into more than just a night out. From concerts to festivals, we’re building experiences that keep the momentum going all season long and make our property a true entertainment destination,” said Holloway.
“The summer event series will continue throughout October, including racing, boxing, and the Adios”.
“I think we’re racing every Friday night, starting that Derby weekend all the way through the summer,” said Brogan. “The Adios at the end of the summer is a great event. I think it is the sixtieth year of the Adios, which is a fun family experience to be outside. And if you want to hear some great music without worrying about the threat of weather, we’ve got that in our event space. It’s providing the county and the region with more at the Meadows. It doesn’t always have to be about the casino experience. We certainly love that part of our business, but there are just other reasons to come out to the property and enjoy yourself.”
2026 Hollywood Events Series
Saturday, May 2: Kentucky Derby
Saturday, May 9: Boxing
Friday, May 22 – Sunday, May 24: Food Truck Festival
Friday, June 12: Rodney Carrington
Friday, July 10: Marshall Tucker Band
Saturday, July 11: Wayne Newton
Saturday, July 18: Boxing
Friday, July 24: Corgi Racing
Saturday, July 25: The Adios
Friday Aug. 21: Aaron Lewis
Saturday, Aug. 22: Josh Turner
Friday, Aug. 28 - Sunday, Aug. 30: Corks & Kegs/Car Show
Sunday, Aug. 30: Grand Funk Railroad
Saturday, Oct. 3: Boxing
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows is bringing back the Vibe
By Michele Gillis
Hollywood Casino at The Mead-
ows is bringing the Vibe nightlife experience back as a pop-up this spring, so get ready to dance the night away as DJ AJ Fresh plays all your favorite tunes all night long.
“The Vibe Pop Up Bar is actually a throwback to a bar that we had years ago,” said Kevin Brogan, vice president of marketing of Hollywood Casino at the Meadows. “It was a nightlife experience, and it was in the center of the property where the Sportsbook is currently located. So, when the Sportsbook was approved, and we knew we were putting it there, we kind of had to put Vibe on the shelf.”
When they were planning their next pop-up bar for spring, Brogan said it made sense to bring back something that had been a Washington County nightlife destination for several years. And if they were going to bring it back, they obviously needed to include their resident DJ, AJ Fresh, who is also a video DJ.
Fresh was the resident DJ for the original Vibe club from 2014 until
it closed in 2017. He has continued to DJ on the property and for the pop-up bars since.
“I am doing the sound and the lighting,” said Fresh. “I am a video DJ, so we will have a big video wall and TV screens throughout. The color scheme is kind of red and silver.”
They are building a DJ booth to put AJ Fresh above the crowd, enhancing the club experience.
“I kind of pull a big crowd to keep people entertained, even if they don’t dance,” said Fresh. “That’s why they have the video walls there, so I can do video mashups.
I mix everything from classic rock to Motown to hip hop to EDM. It’s all over the place, and the visuals keep it interesting.”
He explained that he will take two different artists’ songs or videos and either create a totally different video or mash them up.
“I play a lot in Vegas, Orlando and Pittsburgh for that reason,” said Fresh. “Because of the video, there are not really many video DJs in the Pittsburgh area. I am super pumped to bring the energy for that. Many people have great memories of the old Vibe. So, we’re excited to create the next generation of nightlife for the new Vibe.”
Brogan said he expects the Vibe pop-up bar to be very successful because, in the past, it was all things to all people.
“If you wanted to come dance, it had great music,” said Brogan. “If you were looking for an after-wed-
ding party location, it was great for that. We had bachelor parties there. We would have themed nights. It really had a life of its own and came to life around 11 p.m. on just about every Friday and Saturday night.
“For us, it was something that we knew had been successful in the past. We have a brand that we know, we created and have worked with. We have a DJ that we know, we know Washington County still loves, we’re excited to partner with him again and bring this back to life.”
The Vibe pop-up bar will be located at the back of the casino, and everyone over the age of 21 is welcome.
In previous pop-ups, dressing up to match the theme was encouraged, but with this theme, Brogan said, wear what you want, whether that is jeans and a T-shirt, club attire or full black-tie attire.
“If you want to get dressed up to the nines and are looking for a special night, you’ll fit right in, and if you’re just walking off the gaming floor to check it out, you’re a part of the crowd, too,” said Brogan.
The Vibe pop-up bar will open on Derby Day, which is May 2. It will open early at 7 p.m. to accommodate the guests who attend Derby Day and want to keep celebrating.
From then on, it will operate on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. This pop-up will focus on dancing, drinks and nightlife, rather than food.
Fresh said he still gets messages from people hoping Vibe would reopen.
“We would get hundreds of people every weekend,” said Fresh.
“Everybody’s looking for a place to either dance, people watch or be entertained.”
Fresh described the Vibe pop-up as an open format with high energy and a dancing vibe. He said the music he plays will match the crowd’s energy.
“If I got kind of eighties/nineties thing happening there, I’ll kind of roll with that,” said Fresh. “A lot of
throwback old school hip hop, all the way up to like new dance and EDM music. It honestly depends on whatever vibes are going on that night with the crowd; it could change, but it’s always going to be the high-energy level music and visuals to keep the dance floor packed.”
There are opportunities for businesses and groups to book VIP seating during regular hours or private events in the Vibe pop-up
bar on Friday and Saturday, 7-9 p.m., through group sales on the property.
The Vibe pop-up bar will continue throughout the summer with special events planned, including a whiteout party, a neon party, a red, white and blue party and more.
After visiting the Vibe pop-up bar, make sure to check out the other events happening at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.
New Food and Beverage leader wants to surprise and delight
By Michele Gillis
Adam
Eckstein, the newly appointed vice president of food and beverage at the Hollywood Casino
beyond for our guests. My ethos is always, how can we create memorable experiences so that everyone says, ‘You wouldn’t believe what Hollywood Casino did!’”
am hoping to bring to this property.”
He said that, even though his focus is on food and beverage, he feels
thing. I want to surprise and delight them,” said Eckstein.
The changes he has noticed in the food and beverage industry stem
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