Evolution of Legal Gambling

  • Prohibition

    Prohibition
    Criminal Code of Canada placed a ban on all forms of gambling. Gambling was considered an offence against religion, morals and public.
  • Gambling for Charitable Purposes

    Gambling for Charitable Purposes
    Between 1900 and 1910, gambling activities such as raffles, lottery, and horse racing contributing back to the community were considered acceptable and now recognized as legal.
  • Games of Chance

    Select games of chance now permitted at agricultural fairs.
  • Social Clubs

    Social Clubs
    Canada permits gambling activities on bona fide social club premises so long as the club does not profit from the game. Limited game options remain.
  • Federal and Provincial Lotteries

    Federal and Provincial Lotteries
    Federal and provincial governments now allowed to conduct lotteries.
  • Canada's First National Lottery Winners

    To help fund the Montreal Olympic games in 1976, Canada launched a national lottery. Nine Quebec ladies won the $1 million dollar tax-free jackpot.
  • First Wintario Draw

    First Wintario Draw
    Live Lottery DrawOntario's first lottery draw took place. The live draw was hosted on televsion by Fred Davis and Charlie Farquharson.
  • First Commercial Casino in Ontario

    First Commercial Casino in Ontario
    Casino Windsor opened their doors to allow casino-style gaming onsite.
  • First Slot Racetrack

    The first slot facility to operate at an Ontario horseracing track opens at Windsor Raceway.
  • PLAYOLG.CA

    Playolg is launched offering legalized online gambling to Ontarians.