By Allison Peck
OGALLALA, Neb. — Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack officially introduced live table games Tuesday afternoon with a ribbon cutting ceremony, marking a significant expansion of its gaming floor just ahead of the casino's annual quarter horse racing weekend.
Community leaders, casino officials and representatives from local business and tourism organizations gathered for the ceremony, which featured remarks from General Manager Thomas Frank, Keith County Area Development Executive Director Mary Wilson and Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission Commissioner Janell Beveridge of Paxton.
Following the remarks, officials cut the ceremonial ribbon before guests had the opportunity to see the new gaming area in action.
The casino's first live table games include Blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold'em, adding dealer-operated games to its existing electronic table game offerings.
"Today was a great day for Lake Mac Casino and Ogallala," said Thomas Frank, general manager of Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack. "The new live table games have been highly anticipated and bring additional options to our customers and additional jobs at the casino."
Guests attending the event watched dealers demonstrate the new tables and were among the first to experience the expanded gaming floor.
The addition comes just over a week before Lake Mac Casino hosts its 2026 American Quarter Horse race weekend on Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11. The event will feature eight total races, with four races scheduled each day beginning at 3 p.m. Mountain Time.
Beginning Thursday, July 2, the live table games will be available Thursday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack, located just off Interstate 80 in Ogallala, features more than 300 slot machines, electronic and live table games, a sportsbook, simulcast wagering, live entertainment and quarter horse racing.
Career opportunities are available through the casino as it expands its gaming operations.