A new entertainment and gaming destination will open its doors in Tucson on November 15, 2026, with an investment from the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and a concept incorporating elements of the Yaqui people’s culture and traditions, whose roots are in Sonora.
It is Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taa’am, the third casino operated by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe in Southern Arizona. It will be located at 1055 West Grant Road, near Interstate 10.
The complex will cover 153,480 square feet, with approximately 52,252 square feet dedicated to the gaming area, in addition to restaurants, bars, lounges, and entertainment spaces.
According to information provided by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, the project is expected to create up to 500 new jobs in areas such as gaming, food and beverage, hospitality, security, and administration.
The name Vahi Taa’am, pronounced “vah-hee tah-ahm,” means “Three Suns” in Yoeme, the language of the Pascua Yaqui people, and refers to the community’s cultural identity.
The building will feature a 26-foot-high copper dome, designed to represent the rising of the Sun over the Sonoran Desert landscape. Inside, it will also feature architectural and artistic elements inspired by Yaqui culture.
One of the main features will be the mural “Aniam Yo’orine,” which means “Respect the Worlds” in Yoeme. It was created by Yaqui artist Marcelino C. Flores III, a member of Tucson’s Old Pascua community.
The artwork is inspired by Pascua Yaqui oral tradition, the Sonoran Desert, and the five worlds that form part of Yoeme spiritual life.
IT WILL HAVE 928 SLOT MACHINES
The casino will have 928 slot machines, 24 table games, and an exclusive high-limit gaming area.
The table games will include 17 Blackjack tables in the main area, four in the High Limit section, two roulette tables, and one Craps table.
It will also feature SolSports sports betting kiosks, as well as food and beverage areas, including a full-service restaurant, a fast-food area, and five bars and lounges.
The project will also have 1,562 parking spaces, eight electric vehicle charging stations, and three main entrances to the casino.
A CONNECTION TO SONORA
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe emphasizes that its members are descendants of the ancient Uto-Aztecan peoples of Sonora and maintain a strong connection to their traditions, language, and ceremonies.
Today, the Tribe has more than 22,000 members and, in addition to its businesses, operates education, health, housing, and public safety programs for its community.
Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taa’am, represents a new expansion of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s businesses in Arizona. The organization states that the net profits from its businesses are directed toward essential government services to ensure the sustainability of the community.
The new property is scheduled to open on November 15, 2026, joining Casino of the Sun and Casino Del Sol as part of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s businesses in Southern Arizona.
Source: elimparcial
