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History of the casino

History of the casino

Gambling has been part of human life for thousands of years. From ancient Mesopotamia to the Roman Empire, people have always been drawn to games of chance. Whether betting on dice, cards, or sports, the thrill of risk and reward is deeply rooted in our nature. In Canada, gambling has evolved from traditional Indigenous games to a thriving modern industry—complete with luxury casinos and cutting-edge online platforms. Understanding this history helps us appreciate just how far the industry has come, and where it might be headed next.

Everett Campbell
Written by Everett Campbell - Updated 2025-03-17 - Reading time: 4 minutes.

History of Casinos in Canada

Gambling has long been part of human history, and Canada is no exception. Indigenous communities played games of chance for cultural, spiritual, and social reasons long before European settlers arrived. One of the most well-known traditional games is Slahal, a guessing game involving bones and sticks, which remains part of Indigenous ceremonies today.

The first modern casino in the world was the Ridotto, established in Venice in 1638. Created by the Great Council of Venice, it was a regulated venue designed to oversee gambling activity during the carnival season. Though it closed in 1770, it set the tone for what casinos could become—structured, social spaces where people wagered in an organized fashion.

In the 1800s and early 1900s, gambling became popular in American saloons, especially in cities like New Orleans and San Francisco. These informal venues laid the groundwork for modern casinos. However, gambling was mostly outlawed across the U.S. by the early 20th century, pushing it underground. In contrast, Europe developed structured games like Roulette and Blackjack, which remain casino staples.

Canada's gambling history is marked by legal and cultural shifts. The 1892 Criminal Code initially banned most forms of gambling. But over the next century, attitudes began to change. By 1969, lotteries were legalized, and in 1985, the federal government gave provinces the authority to regulate gambling. This led to the opening of Canada’s first commercial casino in Winnipeg in 1989.

The 1990s saw a boom in casino development. Casino de Montréal opened in 1993 and quickly became Canada’s largest. Ontario introduced Casino Windsor in 1994, further cementing the role of casinos in regional economies. Casinos became not just entertainment hubs but also significant contributors to tourism and employment.

Online gambling added a new layer to the industry. Microgaming launched the first online casino platform in 1994. Just two years later, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission was established in Quebec, becoming one of the world’s earliest online gaming regulators. In 2010, British Columbia launched PlayNow.com, making it Canada’s first legal, government-operated online casino.

Technology and accessibility have since reshaped how Canadians gamble. Today, players can access thousands of casino games, from classic slots to live dealer tables, directly from their smartphones. Secure payment systems, real-time support, and immersive graphics have made online gambling not just a convenience but a full entertainment experience.

Canada's gambling landscape continues to evolve. Provinces expand their digital offerings, new technologies like VR and blockchain emerge, and responsible gambling initiatives grow stronger. What started as ceremonial bone games has become a multibillion-dollar industry, bridging ancient traditions with future-forward innovation.

Now, Canadian players enjoy access to a wide array of legal, safe, and regulated online casinos. These platforms offer tailored experiences, generous bonuses, and games developed by top-tier software providers. Whether you’re playing in a bustling venue or on a quiet evening from your mobile device, the history of gambling in Canada is part of every spin and deal.

Questions About the History of Casinos in Canada

  • When did gambling start in Canada?

    Gambling in Canada has ancient roots. Indigenous communities played games of chance like Slahal long before European contact. These games had cultural and spiritual meaning, far beyond simple entertainment. Legal gambling as we know it began to take shape after the Criminal Code of 1892 was gradually amended in the 20th century.

  • What was Canada's first legal casino?

    The first legal commercial casino in Canada opened in 1989 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This marked a turning point in the country's gambling industry after the provinces were given more control over gambling regulations in 1985.

  • How did online gambling begin in Canada?

    Online gambling began to rise globally in the mid-1990s. In Canada, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission was established in 1996, becoming a pioneer in regulating online gaming. British Columbia launched PlayNow.com in 2010, the first government-operated online casino in the country.

  • What role do casinos play in the Canadian economy?

    Casinos contribute significantly to provincial economies by generating tax revenue, creating jobs, and attracting tourism. Major casinos like Casino de Montréal and Casino Niagara support local businesses and fund public services through government-run gaming commissions.

  • Is online gambling legal and safe in Canada?

    Yes, as long as you play at licensed and regulated sites. Each province in Canada manages its own gambling regulations. Platforms like PlayNow (BC), OLG (Ontario), and Espacejeux (Quebec) offer secure environments with encryption and responsible gaming tools in place.

  • How has technology changed gambling in Canada?

    Technology has transformed gambling into a digital-first experience. Players can access casino games through mobile apps, play live dealer games in real time, and use secure online payment methods. Innovations like blockchain and VR are also beginning to influence the industry.