New Era of Entertainment Begins: Hollywood Casino Aurora Reveals First Shows

Hollywood Casino Aurora is ready to raise the curtain on a brand-new era of entertainment in the Fox River Valley. The highly anticipated destination has unveiled the debut performances for its state-of-the-art event center, setting the stage for unforgettable live experiences just ahead of its expected June 24 opening (pending customary regulatory approvals). Multi-platinum trio X Ambassadors will headline the first performance, kicking off a lineup of can’t-miss acts.

“Hollywood Aurora is thrilled to unveil its initial entertainment lineup featuring world-renowned acts that will headline our stage this summer and beyond. The event center at the all-new property is an exciting new feature to attract visitors from across the region to enjoy all that Aurora has to offer,” said Greg Moore, VP and General Manager of Hollywood Casino Aurora. “We can’t wait to welcome our first acts to the stage and look forward to the many events to come at the all-new entertainment destination.”

The first acts announced set the tone for the type of high-quality, lively shows Hollywood Aurora plans to bring to the region. From post-grunge ’90s rockers to one of the leading bands of the ’70s Southern rock movement and an international stand-up comedian, Hollywood Aurora’s stage promises to offer a diverse lineup of entertainment. Initial performers include:

July 11—X Ambassadors

July 17—Lit and Sponge

Aug. 28—The Marshall Tucker Band

Sept. 6 – Ben Bankas
 

With additional live shows to be announced, the Hollywood Casino Aurora stage will offer a steady lineup of entertainment for Aurora and the surrounding communities. Presale for PENN Play members begins Wednesday, May 13, and tickets for the public can be purchased beginning Friday, May 15 via Ticketmaster. More information on tickets, presale and events, as well as how to become a PENN Play member visit https://www.hollywoodcasinoaurora.com/entertainment.

The new Hollywood Casino Aurora, expected to open at 2500 N. Farnsworth Ave. on June 24, 2026, is being developed adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets, located near Interstate 88 in Aurora. The best-in-class facility will feature roughly 1,200 gaming positions, a premium hotel with 226 rooms, a retail sportsbook, outdoor entertainment area, full-service spa, high-quality bars and restaurants including Sorella by Giada, an approximately 12,000 square foot event center with meeting areas and approximately 1,700 parking spaces. Hollywood Casino Aurora is currently on the Fox River, located near Interstate 88, in Aurora, Illinois. For more information, visit: www.hollywoodcasinoaurora.com.

From headline concerts to a full-scale entertainment destination, Hollywood Casino Aurora is poised to become a must-visit hotspot in the region. Be among the first to experience it all—plan your visit, explore upcoming shows, and secure your tickets at the new Hollywood Casino Aurora.