Fans can help save lives, get limited-edition merch for coming to give in November
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 28, 2026) — Following the lifesaving success of the collaboration that kicked off last year, the American Red Cross and Metallica are once again joining forces to help patients in need with an exciting, three-day opportunity to give lifesaving blood ahead of their upcoming Connecticut shows at Mohegan Sun.
In celebration of the band’s upcoming concerts honoring Mohegan Sun Arena’s 25th Anniversary, members of the Metallica Family and eligible donors of all blood types ─ especially those with type O blood ─ are urged to make a difference by booking an appointment now to give blood Nov. 18 or Nov. 20-21, 2026, at the Red Cross x Metallica Blood Drive hosted by Mohegan Sun in the Uncas Ballroom.
All who come to give at these drives will get an exclusive Red Cross x Metallica T-shirt designed by Squindo, while supplies last.
“This partnership demonstrates the incredible difference people can make when they come together for a meaningful cause,” said Richard Branigan, CEO, American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region. “We look forward to welcoming donors to Mohegan Sun, celebrating the generosity of the Metallica Family and helping save lives through blood donation.”
“Metallica’s connection with its fans goes far beyond the stage, and we’re honored to host the continuation of their blood drive campaign that has collected tens of thousands of donations worldwide,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “This is a unique opportunity to celebrate the excitement surrounding Metallica’s upcoming concerts while also supporting such an impactful cause. We encourage everyone to join us in making this a successful blood drive and a huge thanks goes out to the Red Cross and Metallica for the collaboration!”
The last two months of the year can be a challenge for many donors trying to juggle regular donation appointments with packed schedules full of seasonal activities and holiday planning. Now’s the chance to join our band and make a difference.
Red Cross x Metallica Blood Drives at Mohegan Sun
Wed, November 18th, 10:00am to 4:00pm
Friday, November 20th, 10:00am to 4:00pm
Saturday, November 21st, 9:00am to 2:00pm
Mohegan Sun
Inside the Uncas Ballroom
1 Mohegan Sun Blvd. Uncasville, CT 06382
To make an appointment visitrcblood.org/BleedMetallica, call 1-800-RED CROSS or download the Blood Donor App.
Lifesaving Impact
Members of the Metallica Family have answered the call to help save lives since April 2025, when the Red Cross and Metallica teamed up to hold blood drives at select stops during the U.S. leg of the M72 Tour. The campaign quickly expanded nationwide, giving fans across the country a chance to participate as part of the Give Where You Live campaign. As a result, more than 25,000 blood donations were collected across the U.S. as part of the collaboration. The movement also went global ─ with the band encouraging blood donation at overseas stops along their M72 World Tour. About 93,000 total blood donations were collected worldwide.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visitredcross.orgorCruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
About Metallica
Formed in 1981 by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich and including guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo, Metallica has become one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history, selling nearly 125 million albums worldwide and generating more than 25 billion streams while playing to millions of fans on all seven continents—more than 1.3 million of whom belong to the band’s fiercely loyal and consistently growing Fifth Member fan club. Metallica’s catalog of multi-platinum studio albums includes Kill ’Em All, Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets, …And Justice for All, Metallica(commonly referred to as The Black Album), Load, ReLoad, St. Anger, Death Magnetic, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct, and most recently, the Grammy-winning 72 Seasons, released April 14, 2023, on the band’s own Blackened Recordings label. Metallica’s awards and accolades include nine Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, a 2009 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Sweden’s Polar Music Prize. In 2017, Metallica established its own charitable foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. To date, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised over $29M to support its mission, and provided grants of $15.3M to career and technical education programs through its Metallica Scholars Initiative, $8.4M to combat food insecurity, and $5.6M to disaster relief and other critical local services worldwide. Visit AllWithinMyHands.org to learn more.
About Mohegan Sun
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.Situated on 185 acres along the Thames Riverin scenic Southeastern Connecticut,Mohegan Sunis home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visitingmohegansun.com. Connect with us onFacebook, follow us onXandInstagram@mohegansun and view us onYouTube.
12th Annual Event to take place Saturday, November 14th featuring an Opening Ceremony at The Shops at Mohegan Sun, followed by a free Expo in the Uncas Ballroom
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 1, 2026) – On Saturday, November 14th, Mohegan Sun is proud to host the 12th Annual Vets Rock, a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. This free, community-focused event will feature an inspiring Opening Ceremony, and a veteran resource expo bringing together services, opportunities, and connections for those who serve.
Vets Rock 2026 is free to attend and open to guests of all ages.
Opening Ceremony
WTNH’s Gil Simmons will once again serve as MCfor the opening ceremony, set for 11:00am in The Shops at Mohegan Sun. The November 14th event marks his 10th year hosting this special opening ceremony. This ceremony begins with a presentation of Colors from the Mohegan Tribal Veterans Association and Mohegan Sun Veterans, followed by a national anthem. Remarks and words of appreciation will then follow by Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun, and other notable guest speakers.
The ceremony will set the tone for a meaningful day dedicated to honoring the service, sacrifice, and commitment of America’s military community.
Vets Rock Expo
From Noon to 4:00pm in the Uncas Ballroom, the Vets Rock Expo will connect veterans and active-duty military members with valuable resources, including a job fair, veteran service organizations, veteran-owned businesses, and programs designed to make an impact. Guests 21 and older can also participate in a complimentary Casino 101 tournament. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore services, benefits, and career resources while engaging with fellow veterans, service members, and community partners. Come connect and discover all that Vets Rock has to offer.
Year-Round Military Discounts at Mohegan Sun
As a thank you to those who have served, Mohegan Sun proudly offers year-round military discounts to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and military dependents at more than 40 dining and retail locations throughout the property. Guests must present a valid Military ID to participate. A complete list of participating venues and offers can be found at mohegansun.com.
For more information about Vets Rock 2026, including participating vendors and event updates, visit mohegansun.com/vetsrock.
ABOUT VETS ROCK FOUNDATION, LLC
Vets Rock Foundation, LLC is a non-profit organization founded in 2017 by The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut. The organization was created to support and benefit veterans, active and reserve military members, and their families. Its annual Vets Rock event is a free exposition-style gathering that provides access to employment opportunities, educational resources, Veteran Service Organizations, and veteran-owned businesses while fostering connections within the military community.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Country artist Adrien Nunez will take the Wolf Den stage for a free concert to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving
WHAT: MADD About Adrien Nunez – A Mothers Against Drunk Driving annual benefit returns to Mohegan Sun this October. Guests can enjoy a free live performance by rising country music artist Adrien Nunez in the Wolf Den, while supporting a vital cause through a special silent auction benefiting Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, October 17th 8:00pm Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun
IN DETAIL: Guests are invited to enjoy a special evening at Mohegan Sun as Adrien Nunez takes the Wolf Den stage as part of the annual MADD benefit concert. The concert is free and open to guests 21 and older.
In addition to the live performance, guests can participate in a three-day silent auction taking place in The Shops at Mohegan Sun from Friday, October 16th through Sunday, October 18th, running daily from Noon to 10:00pm. All proceeds from the auction will benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and donations will also be accepted at the auction table throughout the weekend.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking through education, advocacy and victim support services.
Guests must be 21 years of age or older to enter the Wolf Den. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours prior to the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One person may hold up to four spots in line, but seats will only be provided to those present at the time of seating. Limited seating is available.
“Mohegan Sun has enjoyed a long and productive partnership with MADD Connecticut. Their dedicated work continues to drive meaningful progress in public education, vehicle safety technology, victim advocacy, and the prevention of impaired driving” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun.
For more information on MADD Connecticut, visit madd.org/connecticut/ and for more information on MADD About Adrien Nunez, visit mohegansun.com.
MADD ABOUT ADRIEN NUNEZ
A college athlete turned mega-influencer, and now rising country star – Adrien Nunez has consistently found ways to connect with his fans. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, after his time as a basketball star at the University of Michigan, Adrien has turned back to his original passion of music.
After a move to LA, Nunez carved out a path as a successful influencer. Known for his signature red glasses and reaction videos, Adrien found a way to resonate with the masses by supporting some of the breakout stars in country music, including having a helping hand in the massive success of Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”.
Having been so supportive of other creatives, now Adrien’s taken on the challenge himself to wild success as he releases his own music. His first single “LOW ROAD” was a viral hit that has since garnered millions of streams and captivated new and old fans alike.
ABOUT MADD
The mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is to stop drunk driving, to support the victims of this violent crime and to prevent underage drinking. MADD Connecticut is committed to clearly and powerfully advocating for victims of alcohol – related crashes. MADD delivers quality services to hundreds of families each year at no cost to them, as well as help victims/survivors through the multitude of emotions and criminal proceedings that take place through court accompaniment and by providing grief counseling and support groups. MADD’s goal is to eliminate drunk driving and educate Connecticut youth about underage drinking. MADD introduces and follows legislation concerning bills to strengthen drunk driving laws.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Interactive Journey Invites Guests to Explore Mohegan History, Symbols, and Stories
Mohegan Sun is excited to introduce an all-new self‑guided Mohegan Cultural Tour, inviting guests to experience the sights and sounds of the Mohegan People and the living spirit of the Tribe’s history woven throughout the property. The journey explores the stories, traditions and symbols of the Mohegan Tribe—brought to life through architectural details and cultural expressions. The tour begins with a message from Sôksqá Mutáwi Mutáhash (Chief Many Hearts), Lynn Malerba, the Mohegan Tribe’s lifetime Chief and the first woman to hold this esteemed role in more than 300 years, setting the tone for the tour. A message from Mohegan Elder and former Mohegan Tribal Chairman, Bruce “Two Dogs” Bozsum, who also serves as the narrator, then follows as part of an introduction to the Winter Entrance Gallery. Throughout the tour, guests can scan QR codes at designated locations to access engaging content.
“At Mohegan Sun, showcasing the rich history and themes of the Mohegan Tribe has always been a very meaningful part of our guest experience,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “This new self‑guided tour significantly elevates that tradition, reflecting on and showcasing the Tribe’s heritage, stories, artifacts, and much more. We hope visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the Mohegan story and the living culture that continues to guide everything we do.”
The Winter Entrance Gallery begins the cultural tour, an area between the Earth Expo & Convention Center and Sift Bake Shop, displaying the history and the many symbols of the Mohegan Tribe, including baskets weaved from ash, oak or shaped from bark, brass kettles, toboggans, snow shoes, snow snakes and more. These items reflect the Mohegan People’s knack for skilled craftsmanship, resourcefulness, and a time-honored understanding of the natural materials that sustains their way of life. This area of the tour also showcases a map of the Delaware Migration. The Mohegan people are part of the broader Algonquian‑speaking cultures of southern New England, with historical records linking their origins to the Lenni Lenape (Delaware) and a major migration from the Hudson River Valley into present‑day Connecticut. Identifying as an ancient Wolf Clan of the Delaware, the Mohegans first lived in the region as part of the Pequot before internal divisions led Uncas to form the independent Mohegan Tribe and establish its distinct identity.
Guests are then invited to to the next section of the tour, titled Fireside Stories – stories that have been passed down through generations, recounting the Tribe’s values, history, and ancestral wisdom through tales of Moshup the Giant, the Little People(Makiawisua) and powerful spirits.
The tour then encounters artwork by Mohegan artist Kristin Emilyta, whose paintings draw on her family’s legacy and her own vivid memories of Mohegan traditions. Her work—featured in regional museums and cultural exhibitions—celebrates identity, ancestral connection, and the living spirit of the Tribe.
Throughout the Winter Entrance Gallery, guests encounter sacred Mohegan sites that reflect the Tribe’s history and spiritual heritage, including Moshup’s Rock, Fort Shantok, the Uncas cabin foundation, and the historic Mohegan Church, which will celebrate its 200th Anniversary in 2031. The tour also highlights the Tantaquidgeon Museum and the restored Royal Mohegan Burial Ground, showcasing the Tribe’s enduring commitment to preserving and protecting its sacred places.
The next phase of the cultural tour brings guests to a striking sculptural smudge pot, visible from the escalators on the way down to Casino of the Earth from the Winter corridor. This sculpture symbolizes the Mohegan practice of burning sacred herbs to cleanse spaces and invite clarity and good spirits. Cast from a mold created on the Mohegan Reservation, it stands beside an illustration of the Wolf Moon—one of the 13 Moons of the Mohegan lunar calendar, representing the challenges of winter and the storytelling season. Visitors are encouraged to look for the remaining Mohegan Moons throughout the tour.
As the tour moves from Casino of the Earth into The Shops at Mohegan Sun and Casino of the Sky, guests will pass the iconic Maheehkunuk rock figure and wolf at the Spring Gateway near the Mohegan Sun Box Office. This symbol reflects the Mohegan identity—“Mohegan” meaning Wolf People in the Mohegan language—and honors the Tribe’s values of loyalty, strength, and family.
The wolf represents the Mohegan people’s connection to the land, their ancestors, and their enduring spirit. Behind the rock, guests will also find a special carving created by the honorable Mohegan Chief Ralph Sturges, gifted to Mohegan Sun as an expression of his dedication to the tribe and its legacy.
At the entrance to Casino of the Sky, guests can look down to see the round mosaic featuring the Turtle, Turkey, and Wolf—clans of the Lenni Lenape, with the Mohegans belonging to the Wolf Clan. Within the dark red wolf, guests can notice the hidden turkey shape.
Beyond the mosaic stands the Tree of Life, reflecting the Mohegan belief that time is a circle connecting past, present, and future. Sculptural wooden arches represent the roots, trunk, and branches, honoring ancestors, today’s Mohegan community, and generations to come, while beaded canopies echo sacred red cedars. To the left of the Tree of Life, Mohegan Sun’s largest interior mural depicts humanity emerging from nature through the image of a man formed from the Earth, reinforcing the enduring connection between people, the land, and the spirit world.
The journey through The Shops at Mohegan Sun and Casino of the Sky then offers tour guests the below highlights:
“River Blue” Sculpture: A towering hand-blown sculpture by famed glass artist, Dale Chihuly, features 2,500 hand-blown glass pieces in vibrant cobalt blue, shimmering silver and clear tones. The 10,000-pound art piece evokes the powerful swell of water rising in a single, dramatic motion.
Taughannick Falls: A part of Todd English’s Tuscany, this powerful waterfall cascades down seven stories, symbolizing Taughannick Falls—an area in what is now upstate New York where the Mohegan people once lived. This region is known for its breathtaking waterfalls and rugged gorges. During the Mohegan migration to Qunutukut—what we now call Connecticut—crossing the Taughannick Falls area was especially dangerous. As Mohegan medicine woman Emma Baker said in the late 1800s, “This is where our folks came from—away, to the hills of Taughannick!”
Michael Jordan’s Steak House & MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill: Located near the Sky Convention Center features a dome just outside the entrance to both Michael Jordan restaurants. Guests can step into a circular pattern within this area, look up with the dome directly above, and stand in a spot designed to create to create an echo. The feature at Mohegan Sun was inspired by the spirit of childhood and finding joy in life’s simple moments.
Wombi Rock: A Living Mountain of Light and Spirit: At the heart of the Casino of the Sky rises Wombi Rock, a 65‑foot crystal formation inspired by the Mohegan belief that rocks hold spirit, energy, and memory. Crafted from 3,774 hand‑selected onyx slabs sourced internationally and finished by artisans in Italy, the structure is laminated to glass to allow light to radiate through its surface. Above, a planetarium‑style dome symbolizes the ever‑changing sky and Mohegan cosmology.
Sky Tower Hotel Lobby: This iconiclobby features a captivating design rooted in Mohegan storytelling, featuring trees, water elements, and a river flowing toward Taughannick Falls. Shaped like a giant birch-bark basket, the space honors a long‑standing Mohegan tradition where baskets serve as both functional tools and carriers of history. Intricate beadwork woven throughout the trees adds texture and meaning, celebrating the artistry and cultural legacy of the Mohegan Tribe.
Matt Harris Turtle Painting: Also located in the Sky Tower Hotel Lobbyand inspired by the Lenni Lenape Creation Story, a Grandfather Turtle painting by Mohegan Tribal member Matt Harris is on display. The painting depicts the sacred narrative of the turtle raising its back from the waters to form the land, giving rise to life and humanity. It draws from one of the earliest recorded tellings of the story by Elder Tantaqua in 1679, about the enduring connection between land, water, spirit, and creation.
Just down the road from Mohegan Sun, guests can also explore more Tribal history at the Tantaquidgeon Museum, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2031.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan also operates an iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, in Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Ontario, CA providing cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan’s loyal fan base. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Take Fundraising to New Heights During This One-of-a-Kind Rappelling Event on August 28th
UNCASVILLE, CT (July 16, 2026) – Registration is open for Special Olympics Connecticut’s Over the Edge fundraiser, hosted by Mohegan Sun, which will take place on Friday, August 28th. Participants are invited to take fundraising to new heights by rappelling more than 30 stories down Mohegan Sun’s iconic Sky Tower in support of year-round sports, health and fitness programs for nearly 14,000 athletes of all abilities across Connecticut. Whether making the descent or cheering from below, guests will be part of a one-of-a-kind event that brings courage, community and inclusion together in a bold way. Those who wish to keep two feet on the ground may make an online donation instead, and all are invited to come out as spectators. To learn more, register to rappel, or to donate, visit soct.org. Additional information may also be obtained by emailing [email protected], calling 203-230-1201, or following Special Olympics Connecticut on Facebook and Instagram.
Over the Edge annually draws participants from local businesses and corporations, community organizations, law enforcement agencies and schools, and is open to all. Several Special Olympics athletes are also expected to rappel again this year. Through online fundraising, participants must raise a minimum of $1,250 to rappel; however, no experience is necessary. Each participant will be fitted with safety gear, trained and guided through the experience. Hosted at one of the country’s premier entertainment, gaming, dining and resort destinations, Over the Edge offers participants a unique perspective of Mohegan Sun while supporting a meaningful cause. Mohegan Sun is a proud partner of Special Olympics Connecticut, helping raise awareness and support for athletes of all abilities throughout the state.
ABOUT SPECIAL OLYMPICS CONNECTICUT
Special Olympics Connecticut provides year-round sports training and competition opportunities for nearly 14,000 athletes of all ages with intellectual disabilities and Unified Sports® partners – their teammates without disabilities. Through the joy of sport, the Special Olympics movement transforms lives and communities throughout the state and in 200 countries around the world by promoting good health and fitness and inspiring inclusion and respect for people of all abilities, on and off the playing field. (www.soct.org)
Partner Sponsors:The Connecticut Elks Association, Enterprise, ESPN, Eversource, Foxwoods Resort Casino, the Knights of Columbus, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Connecticut, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, the Mohegan Tribe, NBC Connecticut and Telemundo Connecticut, Pratt & Whitney – an RTX business, and Webster Bank.
Year-Round Suppliers:Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Hearst Connecticut Media Group, N&D Sports, Pepperidge Farm, and WORX.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan also operates an iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, in Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Ontario, CA providing cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan’s loyal fan base. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
For the second summer in a row, a unique sand sculpture installation designed exclusively for Mohegan Sun in honor of Mohegan culture and heritage is on display in the center of The Shops at Mohegan Sun. Guests can experience the piece through late summer, and to view a timelapse video of the sculpture being designed, visit Mohegan Sun’s Instagram page.
A Tribute to Mohegan Heritage and Dr. Gladys Tantaquidgeon
“Enlisting renowned artists Abe Waterman and Greg J. Grady to again craft such an impressive, dual-sided sand sculpture has resulted in quite the statement in The Shops at Mohegan Sun,” -said Jeff Hamilton, President of Mohegan Sun. “Dr. Gladys Tantaquidgeon is such an important and beloved Mohegan leader, and her likeness and presence shine through with this piece — we’re really excited for guests to discover this artistry at the center of Mohegan Sun!”
Weighing an estimated 10 tons, this sculpture was crafted entirely from sand by the award-winning team at Professional Sculptors, LLC, featuring celebrated artists Abe Waterman and Greg J. Grady, also known professionally as “G2.” This year, the sculpture prominently features the late Dr. Gladys Tantaquidgeon, a revered Mohegan Medicine Woman, co-founder of the Tantaquidgeon Museum, and Native American advocate and educator. The installation honors her enduring legacy and brings to life Mohegan symbols and stories, providing guests with a memorable cultural experience.
The intricate Mohegan Sun Hot Summer Fun Sand Sculpture is the work of two highly acclaimed sand sculptors.
Abe Waterman, from Prince Edward Island, Canada, is recognized for his imaginative approach to ephemeral art. Transitioning to sand sculpting in 2007, his accolades include:
First Place at the 2025 Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition
European Champion at the International Sand Sculpture Europe Championship in Belgium (2021)
World Champion in the Doubles category with Dmitry Klimenko at the Virginia Beach Neptune Championship Sand Sculpting (2018)
Greg J. Grady, a New Hampshire native and second-generation sand sculptor, has transformed a childhood passion into a global career. With over 15 years of experience, Grady travels internationally creating intricate sand masterpieces and organizes premier sand sculpting festivals. His recent achievements include:
Texas SandFest Master Duo Sculptor First Place (with Abe Waterman) (2025 & 2026)
Siesta Key Crystal Classic, People’s Choice Award (2025)
Sugar Sand Festival, People’s Choice Award (2024-2025)
This installation offers a unique opportunity for guests to appreciate art, engage with Mohegan culture, and capture a memorable summer moment. The opposite side of the piece showcases an intricate Roulette wheel design under a Hot Summer Fun banner, which is Mohegan Sun’s long-running summer marketing campaign filled with exciting promos, can’t-miss festivals, great entertainment and more.
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan also operates an iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, in Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Ontario, CA providing cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan’s loyal fan base. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
