Pennsylvania Entertainment has signed a multi-year partnership agreement with the Chicago Bears, aimed at enhancing its brand influence in the Illinois market through joint marketing and venue cooperation.
Under the agreement, Hollywood Casino Aurora and the newly opened Hollywood Casino Joliet become the official casino partners of the Bears, while ESPN Bet gains the status of official sports betting partner.
The partnership includes branding rights within Soldier Field, digital advertising opportunities, and in-game Hollywood Casino features, enabling Pennsylvania Entertainment to offer exclusive Chicago Bears experiences to customers through both online and offline channels.
The announcement was made at the opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet, located in the Rock Run Collection commercial development area, replacing the original riverboat casino. It offers a comprehensive selection of gaming, dining venues, an event center, and ample parking space. Chicago Bears executives and NFL veteran Tom Sayer attended the opening ceremony. The casino opened on August 11, 2025, equipped with 1,000 slot machines, 43 gaming tables, and ESPN Bet sports betting services.
ESPN Bet is expanding nationwide, currently covering 20 states including Illinois, and has launched the FanCenter app center, offering personalized betting options based on user preferences.
Hollywood Casino Aurora is under construction and is expected to open in the first half of 2026. The partnership between Pennsylvania Entertainment and the Bears demonstrates their ongoing strategic layout in integrating sports, digital interaction, and casino entertainment, aimed at providing a new experience for local football fans.
