The legendary Las Vegas Mirage Hotel and Casino is set to close permanently on July 17. Gambling enthusiasts have a final chance to win big before the casino’s doors close for good. Since July 9, the Mirage has been distributing over $1.6 million in cash through the “Progressive Finale Cash Giveaway,” a requirement by Nevada gambling regulations to pay out all remaining jackpots.
Big Payouts Before the Shutdown
Patrons have the opportunity to win up to $1.2 million through slot machine prizes and $400,000 in table games until July 16. Videos on social media show a chaotic scene, with excited gamblers flocking to the casino, leading to several altercations on the casino floor.
A Casino Under Pressure
As of Friday afternoon, the Mirage was operating only 400 machines, having shut down the rest to end the progressive meters’ calculations and audit the numbers to distribute all the money properly. The atmosphere is described as pandemonium as the casino rushes to pay out $1.6 million in unclaimed progressive jackpots before closing.
Closing a Chapter in Las Vegas History
The Mirage, part of the Wynn brand, opened in 1989 and was one of the first luxury resorts on the Strip. It was famously the original home of the Siegfried & Roy show. The hotel announced in May that it would close this summer and rebrand as the Hard Rock Las Vegas. The company will pay $80 million in severance packages to laid-off Mirage employees.
Farewell to an Iconic Landmark
A notice on the Mirage’s official Facebook page expressed gratitude to its team: “Over the next two months, we will bid farewell to this iconic and historic property and then commence an incredible transformation. We would like to thank all team members at The Mirage for their incredible commitment and helping us provide memorable experiences for our guests.”
