LAS VEGAS--12/16/05--Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:HET) today announced it plans to re-open Harrah's New Orleans Casino on February 17, 2006.

   "We're looking forward to re-opening our doors. We'll be putting people back to work -- and once again helping draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to New Orleans," said Anthony Sanfilippo, president of Harrah's Central Division. "The last four months have been an extremely difficult time for everyone in New Orleans. But we're confident in this city's resilience, and will continue to work with government and community leaders to re-establish a thriving tourism industry in the Big Easy."

   Harrah's New Orleans closed shortly before Hurricane Katrina made landfall near the city on August 29. Repair work began as quickly as possible after the storm and is now well underway. Harrah's anticipates the property will be able to re-open in its entirety in February.

   Work also continues on a 450-room hotel, conference center and restaurant at Harrah's New Orleans. The $150 million expansion project is expected to open in September 2006.