Prime Seats, Cold Beer, Delicious Bites, Fight Night Action and Giveaways Take Center Stage
WHAT: Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook will host a high‑energy viewing experience for UFC Freedom 250, broadcasting the historic fight taking place on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. Fight fans can take in the action and enjoy an electrifying sportsbook environment featuring wall‑to‑wall screens, including the 140-foot video wall, live wagering and exclusive raffle giveaways of signed UFC memorabilia.
WHEN/WHERE: Sunday, June 14th | 8:00pm
Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook
Viewing Package
Guests can reserve a seat for $100 per person, which includes:
One bucket of beer
One entrée
Each attendee who reserves a seat will receive raffle tickets to win exclusive signed UFC items – Ilia Topuria shorts, Alex Pereira shorts and a Sean O’Malley glove–drawn during the fight.
The main card features a stacked lineup of bouts, headlined by a Lightweight Title matchup between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje, as well as a Heavyweight Interim Title Bout between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane. Additional fights include Sean O’Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi, Josh Hokit vs. Derrick Lewis, and Maurício Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler. Fight card subject to change.
Named one of the UFC’s Top 30 sports bars in the country in 2025, Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook delivers the ultimate destination to watch, bet, and celebrate UFC Freedom 250. Reserve a seat via the Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook event calendar, HERE.
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.
Celebration of Iconic Movie’s 55th Anniversary to Feature Original Cast Members, 165+ Vendor Booths, International Chocolatiers, Interactive Experiences & Thousands of Chocolate Lovers
UNCASVILLE, CT (May 19, 2026) – The Chocolate Expo, one of America’s largest chocolate festivals, will make its debut at Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo Center for a two-day celebration of all things chocolate and all things Wonka, featuring stars of the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. The event will take place Saturday, May 30th, and Sunday, May 31st, from 10:00am to 6:00pm, with VIP early admission beginning at 9:00am.
The Chocolate Lover’s Dream Becomes an International Showcase
The Chocolate Expo will feature tastings & sales from 165+ vendor booths, highlighting an extraordinary selection of artisan chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, and other gourmet creations. With participating vendors from across the U.S., plus Canada, Switzerland, France, Germany, Sweden, Lebanon, and Ecuador, this truly international culinary experience has something for everyone.
Guests 21+ can enjoy specially curated chocolate cocktails and drink offerings at Mohegan Sun’s “Chocolate Bar,” along with chocolate‑inspired desserts and drinks available at select restaurants throughout the property. Highlights include chocolate cannoli and cookies at Todd English’s Tuscany, a decadent chocolate cake and chocolate peanut butter martini at dinner, a chocolate flourless fudge torte and mint chocolate martini at novelle, and a rich chocolate fudge cupcake from TheCrafty Stir Café. Together, these offerings create an all‑around experience no chocolate lover will want to miss.
Celebrity Guests & Wonka Magic
Stars from the iconic Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory appearing at The Chocolate Expo include:
• Peter Ostrum – “Charlie Bucket” • Julie Dawn Cole – “Veruca Salt” • Paris Themmen – “Mike Teevee” • Oompa Loompa Rusty Goffe
A Panel Discussion followed by audience Q&A with the stars will take place each day at 1:00pm and is included with admission. In addition, the actors will be available throughout the day to sign autographs and take selfies with fans for an additional fee set by the actors (see website for details). VIP ticket holders will have first access for autographs and selfies beginning at 9:00am and will receive a VIP souvenir lanyard upon entry.
An Immersive, Interactive Experience for All Ages
Adding to the magic of the weekend, guests can explore an immersive Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory-inspired balloon sculpture display, featuring iconic scenes brought to life by renowned balloon artist Robbie Furman. The Kidz Zone will delight younger visitors with face painters and balloon artists, with a special balloon‑popping finale at 5:00pm on Sunday.
Chocolate-themed presentations will take place throughout the event, offering interactive fun for all ages. Guests are also encouraged to join in the theme by dressing in Wonka-inspired costumes, with daily costume contests held at Noon and 3:00pm for prizes and bragging rights.
Tickets & Event Information
VIP, General Admission, and Late-Day Special tickets are available online at:
The Chocolate Expo is a Baum Image Group event. Prior productions include The Official Woodstock 35th Anniversary Celebration in 2004 under license from Woodstock Ventures, creators of the original 1969 Woodstock Festival.
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.
Celebrity Interview Opportunities
A very limited number of advance interviews with the cast of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory are available. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Mohegan Sun is set to host a vibrant Pride Weekend, inviting guests to celebrate community, bold expression and lively entertainment. A two-day celebration is in store, where guests can enjoy a series of exciting events, live performances, and social gatherings – including the return of Pride on the Sun Patio on Saturday, June 6th, featuring music by Sister Funk, drag entertainment and bites from the food trucks Reel Catch and Hungry Lion. For full details on the weekend’s lineup please visit mohegansun.com/pride
“Our free, all-ages and always electric Pride on the Sun Patio is home to a special drag showcase and sensational live music by way of Mohegan Sun’s Locals Live 2025 winners, Sister Funk. it’s all complemented with delicious food and a good time for all.” said Kim Noto, CMO of Mohegan Sun “We can’t wait to celebrate Pride Weekend this June across Mohegan Sun.
Taking place from 2:00pm – 6:00pm on Saturday, June 6th, Pride on the Sun Patio is an annual outdoor celebration featuring food trucks, local vendors, drink specials at the Sun Patio Bar and much more.
The full schedule for Pride on the Sun Patio includes drag performances beginning at 2:30pm, hosted by Mia E. Z’Lay and featuring talented entertainers Ambrosia Black, Dom Parinyon, Enigma Jones, Midnight, and Felicity V. Lay. Then, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, Sister Funk, takes the stage. This all-female band won Mohegan Sun’s 2025 Locals Live competition in the Wolf Den, and they’re known for playing hits across pop and alternative rock.
A Weekend of Celebrations
Beyond the Sun Patio, Mohegan Sun will host several additional events across its venues, ensuring a full weekend of Pride celebrations:
Summer Orlando’s Drag Bingo: Friday, June 5th, at 10:00pm at Comix Roadhouse. A fun-filled evening of Pride-inspired bingo is planned at Comix Roadhouse, with more details available HERE.
Lipstick, Lashes & Lies: Saturday, June 6th, at 10:00pm at Comix Roadhouse. Mia E. Z’Lay will present a variety drag show with a rotating cast, offering comedic sets, live singers, celebrity impersonations, dancing, and audience participation.
Pride @ Night: Saturday, June 6th, from 9:00pm to 2:00am at Avalon Nightclub. Guests cankeep the party going with beats by DJ Castaneda’s all inside one of the most legendary nightclub scenes in the northeast. Also, guests who show their Pride on the Sun Patio wristband will receive free cover charge to Pride @ Night inside Avalon Nightclub. More info HERE.
Mohegan Sun’s Pride Weekend, taking place Friday, June 5th, and Saturday, June 6th, across Comix Roadhouse, the Sun Patio, and Avalon Nightclub, is an invitation for guests to come together, celebrate and socialize. The WNBA’s Connecticut Sun will also host their Pride Night on Friday, June 26th where inclusion, community and the celebration of the LGBTQ+ community take center stage. The Connecticut Sun take on the Washington Mystics at 7:30pm. The evening will include the Hartford Gay Men’s Chorus performing the national anthem. Special moments of recognition and high-energy fan experiences are planned. For tickets, visit sun.wnba.com/tickets
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.
Celebrated chef to lead Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on May 21st in Celebration of National Burger Month as Refreshed Concept Debuts Updated Design, Menu and Service Model
Mohegan Sun will officially unveil its all new Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay with a special re-opening event and ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by renowned chef and restaurateur Bobby Flay on Thursday, May 21st at 1:00pm in celebration of National Burger Month. The restaurant has already begun welcoming guests today as part of a soft opening.
Flay will be joined by Mohegan Sun President & General Manager Jeff Hamilton and Mohegan Tribal Officials to commemorate the next chapter of Bobby’s Burgers, which introduces an updated design, streamlined service model and refreshed guest experience. Following the ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to sample the updated menu and enjoy a limited giveaway, available while supplies last.
“This refreshed Bobby’s Burgers concept reflects everything I love about great dining: bold flavors, high-quality ingredients and an experience that’s both approachable and exciting,” said Bobby Flay. “Mohegan Sun has been an incredible partner, and I’m excited to celebrate this next evolution together.”
The newly redesigned Bobby’s Burgers at Mohegan Sun is one of the brand’s largest locations in the United States and one of the only restaurants to feature an adjacent full-service bar, which has also been updated as part of the renovation. The space showcases enhanced design elements consistent with the brand’s presence in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and many more locations, while introducing a more efficient counter-service model that allows for faster ordering and pickup.
The menu highlights Flay’s signature approach to classic American fare, featuring favorites like the Crunchburger®, the Bobby Blue + Bacon Burger and the Palace Classic Burger, alongside a rotating selection of limited-time burgers and shakes. Each burger is made with Certified Angus Beef™, grilled medium or well done, and served on a brioche bun, with options for grilled chicken or a vegetarian patty available across the menu.
As part of the re-opening celebration, Flay will step behind the counter to work alongside his kitchen team, preparing orders and engaging directly with guests.
Chef Bobby Flay has spent decades shaping some of the country’s most acclaimed restaurants and culinary concepts. The first chef to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Flay is a 16-time cookbook author and five-time Daytime Emmy Award winner. Bobby’s Burgers represents a natural extension of his culinary philosophy, bringing bold, accessible flavors to a fast-casual format.
Standard hours at the new Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay at Mohegan Sun are:
Sunday: 8:00am – Midnight
Monday – Thursday: 11:00am – Midnight
Friday: 11:00am – 3:00am
Saturday: 8:00am – 3:00am
Breakfast hours are Saturday and Sundays: 8:00am – Noon
For more information, visit mohegansun.com. To view the full menu, visit mohegansun.com or click HERE
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, 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, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
Mohegan Sun is set to host the 2nd annual Savor New England, an all ages festival set for Saturday, June 20th at the Sun Patio from 2:00pm – 6:00pm. Savor New England is a celebration of New England tradition featuring coastal inspired bites, live entertainment and a Chowder Competition – where festival goers can cast their votes for a 2026 champ!
Tickets for Savor New England are available for purchase starting 10:00am on Tuesday, April 14th, HERE. Special Savor New England themed hotel packages are also offered at mohegansun.com!
Live performances on the Sun Patio Music Stage at Savor New England will be Juice Box from 2:00pm – 4:00pm and Souls on Fire from 4:30pm – 6:00pm. Connecticut’s premier Top 40 band, Juice Box brings high‑energy crowd favorites, followed by Souls on Fire— a talented 10‑piece Connecticut band delivering iconic ’70s hits from Chicago, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Motown, and beyond.
Sip & Savor
Guests 21+ can elevate their experience with Sip & Savor as part of Savor New England. This exclusive VIP section is designed for those who want to explore more, and unlock unlimited samples from local breweries and wineries like Two Roads Brewing Company and Downeast Cider.
Mohegan Sun’s all-new Reel Catch Food Truck, which debuts soon on the Sun Patio, will also serve as one of the signature food trucks at Savor New England 2026. Reel Catch specializes in fresh, coastal-inspired favorites such as Narragansett Fresh Catch Fish & Chips; fresh Maine hot and cold lobster rolls; lobster corn dogs; lobster grilled chees and classic New England clam chowder. Reel Catch will remain a permanent addition to the Sun Patio throughout the summer, giving guests a new go-to offering for seasonal seafood.
Savor New England Chowder Competition
The Clam Chowder Competition makes its flavorful comeback for Savor NE 2026 —where guests can sample each contender’s signature recipe and cast your vote for this year’s champion. Local vendors often have unique twists on their offering and Mohegan Sun’s Reel Catch Food Truck will be competing!
Savor New England is supported by numerous partners, including Patrón, Jim Beam, Sun Cruiser, Drive Sober, Mini Melts Ice Cream, Downeast Cider, High Noon, Modelo, and Two Roads Brewing.
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.
Mohegan Sun’s All-New Reel Catch Food Truck Also Debuts
Summer once again starts early at Mohegan Sun as on Saturday, May 30th, the annual Summer Kick-Off event returns to the Sun Patio with live music, family-friendly fun and the official debut of Reel Catch, Mohegan Sun’s all-new seafood food truck. For this year’s festival, the first 250 guests will also receive a complimentary Six Flags ticket, courtesy of Coca-Cola, while the first 100 guests 21+ will also enjoy a free cocktail at the Sun Patio Bar.
The Summer Kick-Off at Mohegan Sun’s Sun Patio is free and scheduled for Saturday, May 30th, from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. The Summer Kick-off at Mohegan Sun welcomes all ages to enjoy an afternoon of sunshine, food, and music. Live entertainment will be provided by Rhode Island’s Madhatter Band.
Reel Catch Food Truck by Mohegan Sun
New to the annual Summer Kick-Off is the debut of Reel Catch, Mohegan Sun’s new seafood food truck, serving up fresh, coastal-inspired favorites. The menu highlights include Narragansett Fresh Catch Fish & Chips; fresh Maine hot and cold lobster rolls; lobster corn dogs; lobster grilled cheese; and classic New England clam chowder. Reel Catch will remain a permanent addition to the Sun Patio throughout the summer, giving guests a new go-to destination for seasonal seafood.
The event will also feature a lineup of other food trucks, ensuring a diverse range of options for attendees:
Yummy Wagon: Providing a selection of popular dishes.
Rubino’s Full Scoop: Serving frozen treats and desserts.
Guests can also take advantage of promotions during the annual Summer Kick-Off on the Sun Patio. The first 250 guests will receive a complimentary ticket to any Six Flags Parks location, courtesy of Coca-Cola (limit one per person). Additionally, the first 100 guests 21+ at the Sun Patio Bar will enjoy a complimentary cocktail, courtesy of Red Bull (Limit one per person). Seating by the fire pits will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, enhancing the outdoor party experience.
Located near Casino of the Earth, the Sun Patio is a large open air space, equipped with a new state-of-the-art music stage, allowing guests to soak in the warmer weather. Sun Patio Bar will officially open at the Summer Kick-off event and then standard hours are Fridays from 3:00pm – midnight, Saturdays from Noon – midnight and on Sunday, Noon – 8:00pm. Sundays throughout summer at the Sun Patio Bar are also set to feature live acoustic music. Private events are also possible on the Sun Patio, and more information can be found by inquiring to: [email protected]
In addition to Summer Kick-off, Mohegan Sun guests can also enjoy phenomenal tribute acts throughout the summer every Friday evening beginning June 19th as part of the Party on the Sun Patio series. The annual Sun Tequila Tasting is also slated for Friday, May 8th starting at 8:00pm on the Sun Patio. For more information, visit mohegansun.com/sunpatio.
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.
