Daniel Cox
Editor, Poker Insider Magazine
May 15, 2009

Las Vegas, NV – Seth Palansky, Sports & Entertainment Director for Harrah's Entertainment, announced the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event opening days will again share the stage with a gaming exposition. A revamped Gaming Lifestyle Expo, the world's largest poker expo, returns under a new brand and format for 2009.  To offset a huge drop in exhibitors in 2008, the inaugural "PokerPalooza" will provide the same access to poker and lifestyle exhibitors, but expand its focus by adding additional fun, social and interactive elements. 

PokerPalooza takes place in the Rio Pavilion in the Rio Convention Center in Las Vegas from July 2-5, directly adjacent to the WSOP playing area. The event overlaps with the opening days of the World Series of Poker Main Event and located just steps from the tournament playing area.

PokerPalooza attractions will be divided into a number of grouped categories, designed to appeal to everyone from the professional to those who have not yet taken up the game.  "It's going to be part trade show, part carnival, all fun," said Ty Stewart, marketing director for the WSOP. Multiple WSOP champions are expected to be on hand signing autographs, host book signings and conduct seminars.  For those looking to add to their poker passion, a plethora of poker-related products will be on display for you to peruse.

There will be an expanded food court and signature "Bad Beat Bar" to swap stories after being eliminated from poker’s biggest event. If games are your escape, you will find a Mechanical Bull courtesy of Stoney’s, the Richard Petty Driving Experience, Sumo-wrestling suits, and several carnival-style games to keep you entertained.

Schedule
Thursday,  July 2^nd      11am – 8:30 pm
Friday, July 3^rd             11am – 8:30 pm
Saturday, July 4^th         11am – 8:30 pm
Sunday, July 5^th           11am – 6:00 pm

To celebrate the the Fourth of July, there will be a special hot dog eating contest!

Admission to Poker Palooza is free and open to anyone 21 years of age or older.   Folks are encouraged to come beat the heat and enjoy Poker Palooza and then stop by the tournament area and catch a glimpse of some WSOP poker action!

For information on exhibition sales and marketing opportunities, please contactSharon Wayne, Expo Manager at (702) 777-2310 or Swayne@lvrio.harrahs.com.

To pre-register for athe 40th Annual World Series of Poker, CLICK HERE.