Whether you play cards or the slots at Coquitlam's Boulevard Casino - or just browse around for the entertainment - you'll want to circle this date on your calendar.
On Friday, Dec. 20, the gaming venue will convert to Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, the first time the American brand will open a facility on Canadian soil.
And the Great Canadian Gaming Corp., which will be licensing the name, will throw a lavish party to celebrate its multi-million dollar renovation of the United Boulevard business. Among the musicians marking the event will be the pop group Hedley, which will be playing in the show theatre.
Last year, GCGC received permission from city council to build a hotel and convention centre; however, those plans appear to be on hold until Hard Rock Casino is launched.
The municipality receives 10% of Boulevard Casino's net gaming profits, which since it opened in 2002 has translated to more than $90 million for Coquitlam. Most of that revenue is spent of major capital projects while another portion is granted to community groups.
