Ontario’s Playtime Casino Hanover is celebrating its 25th anniversary this February with a series of special events, promotions, and community initiatives honoring more than two decades of operations in the region.
Anniversary festivities began Friday, February 20, with a pasta buffet available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the casino’s buffet. The celebrations continued Saturday, February 21, featuring 25 Hot Seats offering $25 in Free Play from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Guests also enjoyed sweet treats starting at 11 a.m., a souvenir T-shirt giveaway, and live entertainment on the casino floor from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. by performer Tim Lucas. A $2,500 draw took place at 8 p.m.
Since opening on February 21, 2001, the casino has welcomed more than 6.7 million visitors to its gaming floor and has contributed over CAD 525,000 in monetary and in-kind support to nonprofit and community organizations.
The property has also supported the community through volunteer efforts benefiting groups such as the Hanover & District Hospital Foundation, The Salvation Army food bank in Hanover, the Hanover Fire Department, and the Terry Fox Foundation.
Dining operations have served more than 29,754 pounds of signature wings, 23,051 Caesar cocktails, and 7,599 sticky toffee puddings since opening.
In 2019, Gateway Casinos & Entertainment completed a CAD 18-million renovation and rebrand of the property to Playtime Casino Hanover, creating about 100 jobs and adding new restaurants and amenities.
As the host municipality, the Town of Hanover receives a share of net gaming revenue generated by the casino. In fiscal year 2024–2025, the town received CAD 1.28 million in Host Local Government Payments. From its opening through December 2025, the gaming facility has generated CAD 25,013,195 for the municipality to support local priorities.
To mark the anniversary, Playtime Casino Hanover announced a CAD 1,000 donation to the hospital foundation.
Gateway Casinos also highlighted employee development and retention at the property. Five staff members have remained with the company since the casino opened in 2001.
Rebecca Coveney, bar manager at MATCH Eatery & Public House, said the milestone reflects the people behind the casino and its broader impact on the community. “Playtime Casino Hanover has helped drive local development, supported infrastructure, created jobs, and welcomed visitors who contribute to the economic heartbeat of the region,” she said. “Its impact reaches beyond its walls and into the livelihoods, programs, and shared experiences that make a community thrive.”
Lisa Lina, acting general manager of Playtime Casino Hanover, has also been with the company since 2001. She has held multiple roles over the years, including Security, Host, Operations, Marketing, and Acting General Manager, gaining experience in teamwork, dedication, and adaptability.
“Reaching this 25-year milestone is something we share with our guests and the community who have supported us every step of the way,” she said. “You are the reason we do what we do, and it has been a pleasure welcoming you through our doors.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/02/24/117732-ontario-39s-playtime-casino-hanover-marks-25-years-with-celebrations-and-community-support
