The Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center is set to debut in mid-November, ahead of its initial timeline, thanks to an expedited construction process.
This $275 million project represents the most significant casino investment in Iowa, and it has also revealed its inaugural entertainment lineup. Originally, the casino’s opening was slated for later this year.
“We have had the privilege of collaborating with various contractors and labor unions from Iowa during the construction of Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center,” stated Stefan Huba, Chief Development Officer of Peninsula Pacific Entertainment. “The combination of a solid plan, impressive architecture, efficient procurement, local workforce, and favorable weather has ensured that we remain ahead of schedule.”
The upcoming event center is anticipated to feature over 100 shows each year, showcasing national, regional, and local talent.
The Pork Tornadoes will kick off the concert series on November 25. Other performances set to take place include Old Dominion on December 5, Steve-O on December 12, and the Eli Young Band on January 22, 2027. Additional artists scheduled to perform include Switchfoot, James “Murr” Murray, the Ying Yang Twins featuring Paul Wall, Parmalee, the Marshall Tucker Band, the Red Hot Chili Pipers, the Commodores, and Carrot Top.
The 1,500-seat venue will also host Jocko’s Comedy Club, featuring comedians such as Brooks Wheelan, Josh Blue, and Greg Hahn, as part of its Thursday night comedy series.
“Cedar Crossing aims to be much more than just a casino,” commented Kim Pang, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center. She noted that the intention is for the venue to serve as a hub for gaming, dining, comedy, and live entertainment.
“Our mission is to provide entertainment experiences that elevate what is currently available in Cedar Rapids and create new reasons for both residents and visitors to enjoy our community,” Pang added.
The casino’s grand opening festivities have been rescheduled to December 4-5, advancing from the previously anticipated launch on December 31. The expansive 160,000-square-foot facility will feature destination dining, including the Clubhouse by Zach Johnson, alongside an Arts and Cultural Center.
All announced performance tickets will go on sale on August 7, with Charter Members granted exclusive presale access for 24 hours before the general public can purchase.
Cedar Crossing is currently on the lookout for staff across gaming, food and beverage, and hospitality sectors, with hiring initiatives expected to commence in September via the casino’s website, LinkedIn, and Indeed.
The casino has also introduced a Points Partner Program that enables guests to redeem rewards at over 20 local businesses. Additionally, they will provide a shuttle service connecting the venue with nearby hotels, downtown attractions, and the Czech Village and New Bohemia districts.
The property will channel 8% of its net adjusted gross revenue to the Linn County Gaming Association to support nonprofit organizations throughout the Corridor.
This opening represents the culmination of a decades-long effort to establish a casino in Cedar Rapids. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission previously rejected proposals in both 2014 and 2017 before finally endorsing the project.
A study released last year projected that Cedar Crossing could generate an economic impact of $2.25 billion across Iowa.