On 8 July 2022, the interim facility located at the old Bristol Mall will welcome guests for the first time. Construction plans kicked off in December 2021 after Hard Rock received approval from the Virginia Lottery.

Wanting to get operations underway as soon as possible, the company set to work transforming the unused mall space into a temporary casino.

During construction, Hard Rock has simultaneously been selecting its team to run the property. Allie Evangelista will oversee the casino’s operation, whose appointment as President was announced in February.

Commenting on the property’s summer debut, Evangelista said: “I cannot wait to open the doors on 8 July for our temporary casino in Bristol.

“We continue to hire new team members daily and are working hard to fill remaining positions with hiring events over the next couple of months, including two events next week. 

“Visitors will be thrilled to enjoy fantastic gaming and dining opportunities at our new property.”

Likewise, Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of Hard Rock International, to whom Evangelista will report, remarked: “We are excited to open the casino, and welcome guests.

“As Virginia’s first casino, ‘Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock’ will be a wonderful addition to the Hard Rock global portfolio of dining, hotel and entertainment properties.

“I am pleased by the significant progress that Allie Evangelista and her team are making towards an 8 July grand opening celebration for Bristol.”