Circus Circus Brings Bingo Back to the Las Vegas Strip After a Decade

Circus Circus has reintroduced bingo to the Las Vegas Strip for the first time in over a decade, marking a nostalgic return to the classic game. Located on the second floor of the casino hotel, the spacious room accommodates up to 255 players, transforming what was a storage area into a vibrant gaming venue.

The opening day, Friday the 13, added an ironic twist to the event, as the day is often considered unlucky. The revival targets both nostalgic tourists and locals seeking a familiar pastime.

A Classic Bingo Experience

The bingo experience at Circus Circus is a nod to a simpler time, emphasizing the charm of a pre-smartphone era. Players engage with physical bingo cards, marking their selections with daubers as numbers are drawn from traditional bingo blowers.

The casino hosts five sessions daily from Thursday to Sunday, each featuring 14 games, including traditional bingo, a bonus game, and a coverall. Guests can purchase a full session package for $30, with additional cards available for purchase.

Cash prizes range from $50 to $1,500.

Circus Circus adds to the nostalgic atmosphere with classic bingo snacks like hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, beer, and cocktails. "There's never been a better time to bring back bingo to the Las Vegas Strip," stated Circus Circus General Manager Shana Gerety.

Circus Circus Fills a Long-Standing Bingo Void

While bingo has remained popular in off-Strip locations like Palace Station and South Point, its presence on the Strip has been virtually nonexistent since the Riviera closed in 2015. The closure of the Riviera left a significant gap in the bingo scene, previously filled by the Frontier, which closed in 2007. The return of bingo at Circus Circus not only fills this void but also offers a unique gaming experience that contrasts with the high-stakes allure of baccarat and blackjack.

The lottery-style game, where players aim to complete winning patterns and shout "Bingo!" has a different appeal. It attracts a demographic that appreciates the slower pace and social interaction of bingo, making it a perfect fit for Circus Circus.

Embracing Las Vegas Nostalgia

Circus Circus is positioning itself as a hub for old-school Las Vegas nostalgia. As the oldest remaining Strip casino hotel with its original structures intact, it has inadvertently become a custodian of Las Vegas history. Under Phil Ruffin's ownership, acquired in 2019, Circus Circus has resisted modernization trends that have swept through other casinos. This dedication to preserving the classic Sin City experience is reflected in its coin-operated slots, a rarity on the Strip today.