The Mirage in Las Vegas is giving away $1.6m in unclaimed progressive jackpot money before closing on July 17. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

The Mirage casino resort in Las Vegas is giving away $1.6m before closing on July 17, though not out of the goodness of its heart. This money comes from outstanding progressive jackpots and Nevada law requires casinos to pay them out before closing their doors.

Patrons will have a chance to receiving part of the $200,000 in guaranteed slots winnings each day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. They have to play a slot machine with a Unity card within two minutes of the draw to have a shot at a prize.

All told, there is $1.2m in slots money to be had.

The pot will rise to $250,000 for Friday and Saturday, with the remaining $100,000 reserved for July 16. All told, there is $1.2m in slots money to be had. The $400,000 table game jackpots will be given away separately on Friday and Saturday. Anyone who still has Mirage casino chips has 120 days after the property’s closure to claim their money at Treasure Island’s cashier cage.

The Mirage was an iconic Las Vegas Strip property and was the first proper mega-resort to open in the city. Hard Rock International bought it in 2022 for $1.08bn and will redevelop the facility into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, which should be open in 2027. The new owners are holding a press conference on July 17 to mark the closure.