Officials with Tioga Downs have announced that they will be hosting a groundbreaking ceremony followed by a reception on October 30 to celebrate the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board’s decision to allow Tioga Downs to apply for a full gaming licence.

The groundbreaking ceremony will take place at 3:00 p.m.

Tioga has also unveiled plans for its ‘High Five Weekend,’ which is a series of events planned for the weekend of October 30 to help the community celebrate the location board’s momentous decision.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, invited guests will attend a private reception with a champagne toast from 3:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Everyone visiting Tioga Downs that day will be able to celebrate with free cake until 10 p.m. Visitors can also bring two canned goods and receive a $5 lunch or dinner buffet. All food will be donated to the Southern Tier Food Bank. Special musical guest the ‘Gravel Ding Brothers’ classic rock band will perform from 8:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.

The celebration will continue on Saturday, October 31 with the public Halloween Party from 9:00 p.m. until midnight. Cash prizes, including $1,000 for first place, will be awarded for the best costume. Free cake will be offered from 1 p.m. until 10:00 p.m., and a $5 lunch or dinner buffet will again be available for anyone donating two canned goods.

The celebratory weekend culminates on November 1 with Jeff Gural's High Five Sunday Celebration from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. All guests can also enjoy free cake during the party.

(With files from Tioga)