To explore ticket options and to take advantage of weekend passes, guests can click HERE.
Snowbound Expo delivers the ultimate winter sports kick-off and has been the launch of winter on the east coast for over 40 years. Skiers, snowboarders, brands and top mountain resorts unite for an action-packed weekend filled with high-energy winter gear sales, live stunts, iconic industry speakers, and the latest winter apparel. Snowbound Expo offers something for every kind of mountain enthusiast and brings the ultimate mountain vibe directly to the Northeast, marking the unofficial start of the region’s winter sports season.
The east coast’s premier pre-season gathering brings together over twenty-three thousand snow sports enthusiasts, beginners to pro athletes, and the brands and resorts that shape winter culture. The move to Mohegan Sun bridges the gap between Boston and New York City, connecting riders across the entire New England region. Backed by heavy-hitting alliances like the Connecticut Ski Council, the New York Metropolitan Ski Council, and the Danbury Ski Club, Carve Bunnies, the community support has grown.
Mohegan Sun will serve as the ultimate basecamp, offering smooth travel connections, free parking, hotels and amenities onsite. Inside, the massive layout gives brands total freedom to build custom setups, creating an immersive playground where visitors can experience and buy the newest products.
Snowbound Expo delivers a packed weekend of live action, a strong line-up speakers on the Inspiration Stage and this year a premium Powder Pass ticket offers the chance to meet and greet with the athletes in a VIP experience. The 2026 line-up includes:
– Travis Rice: Legendary big-mountain snowboarder and visionary filmmaker. Learn first-hand how he tackles the world’s most perilous faces. – Jessie Diggins: Olympic gold medalist and cross-country powerhouse. Discover the elite mental toughness required to dominate the global stage. – Kimmy Fasani: Backcountry pioneer and resilient advocate for mountain wellness. Hear her inspiring story of longevity on and off the snow. – Tom Wallisch: Freestyle skiing icon and X Games gold medalist. Get the inside scoop on style, progression, and park creativity. – Luis Medearis: Filmmaker, snowboarder and community leader. – Scott and Shayna: Barrier-breaking Deaf mountaineers. Learn how they navigate extreme high-altitude alpine environments against all odds.
There is live action in every corner of the 2026 event. The Ice Coast Rail Jam returns, where pros compete across pipes and rails. For families, the Indoor Slope is great for beginners to try skis and boards. The Alpine Runway is a new addition to the 2026 features and will offer a fresh look at upcoming winter apparel and hard goods. The opening hours are extended beyond 8pm Saturday night for the first evet After Hours Après-Party with a DJ set, a runway show, film clips and swag giveaways.
Leading brands and partners Attendees can find expert advice on gear, boards, skis, boots, accessories and apparel from top industry names. Committed partners for 2026 include Subaru of New England, Ikon Pass, Colorado Ski Shop, Killington, Sugarbush, Chic Chac, Inn Seasons Resorts, Jackson Hole, and Big Snow American Dream, Powder Ridge, Mount Southington, Otis Ridge and many more.
“Moving Snowbound Expo to Mohegan Sun marks an exhilarating new chapter for the winter sports community,” said Kate Hawley, Snowbound Expo Event Director. “While we are stepping into a world-class, state-of-the-art space that allows for bigger, more immersive brand activations, our core commitment to the rider community remains completely unchanged. By compacting the expo into a high-energy, two-day weekend and adding unmatched features like the Après-Party and Alpine Runway, we are maximizing the experience for both our partners and the 23,000+ passionate enthusiasts who join us to kick off the season. This venue is truly the new long-term home for east coast Winter Sports.”
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For all media enquiries, contact USA Marketing Director, Chloe Hyland at [email protected]
Notes to Editors: Snowbound Expo #SnowboundExpo
Snowbound Expo is a massive winter sports event that brings together skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate the start of the winter season. Held annually, the event features a lively, mountain-inspired atmosphere where attendees can shop the latest gear from top brands, meet iconic athletes and speakers, and enjoy live-action entertainment like stunt shows and interactive features. It serves as the ultimate meeting ground for the entire snow sports community – from backcountry powder hounds to families teaching their kids to ski – to connect with major resorts, plan winter getaways, and gear up for the snow
ABOUT RACCOON MEDIA GROUP
Raccoon Media Group was founded in 2018 with the launch of the multi-award-winning National Running Show and over the next few years went on to launch many popular consumer events in health and wellbeing markets. The business has expanded significantly since its inception and is now a dynamic, scaled, high-growth media business focused on mobilizing passion-led B2C and B2B communities across the globe. Our events and media properties deliver year-round content and advice to specialist, self-identifying audiences. Raccoon is entrepreneurial, fast-paced and disruptive. As a business we question the status quo, we invest in exceptional people, we operate with a clear purpose and deliver sustainable events that directly meet the needs of our audiences in a way that ignites and bolsters the industries in which we operate.
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.
From Luxury Vehicles and Exotics to EVs, Discover the Newest Innovations in the Automotive Industry
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 4, 2026) – The Connecticut International Auto Show returns to Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo & Convention Center on Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th, bringing together the latest vehicles, cutting-edge automotive technology and interactive experiences for all car enthusiasts shopping for their next ride.
The show features the latest cars, trucks, SUVs, hybrids, and EVs, as well as luxury vehicles, customs, exotics, and classics. New for 2026, the Overland Connecticut Exhibit showcases adventure-ready vehicles, off-road builds, camping setups, outdoor gear, and accessories designed for life beyond the pavement. Visitors can climb inside new models, compare options, meet industry experts, and get an up-close look at the newest innovations in automotive technology and design.
Owned by the Connecticut Automotive Retailers Association and produced by Steve Freeman Events, the Connecticut International Auto Show has become one of the region’s premier automotive showcases, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Product specialists and automotive experts representing participating manufacturers will also be at the show to answer questions and provide information to attendees.
Tickets are available now at ctautoshow.com. Admission is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 6-12. Children under six are admitted free. Plus, military members receive complimentary admission with valid military identification. Free parking is available for attendees in the Winter Garage, conveniently located adjacent to the Expo Center.
For more information, visit ctautoshow.com or follow the Connecticut International Auto Show on Facebook at @ConnecticutInternationalAutoShow.
For more information about Mohegan Sun, visit mohegansun.com.
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.
Actors Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt) & Oompa Loompa Rusty Goffe to Headline this Sweet Event!
The Chocolate Expo, one of America’s largest chocolate festivals, makes its debut at Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo Center for a two-day celebration of all things chocolate and all things “Wonka” with the stars of that classic 1971 movie on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31, 2026 from 10:00am – 6:00pm, with VIP Early Entry beginning at 9:00am.
A Chocolate Lover’s Dream
The Chocolate Expo will feature tastings & sales from more than 100 vendors offering an extraordinary array of artisan chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, chocolate-themed craft beverages and a variety of other delicious treats.
Celebrity guests from the iconic Willy Wonka movie include:
• Peter Ostrum – “Charlie Bucket”
• Julie Dawn Cole – “Veruca Salt”
• Rusty Goffe – The Most Recognizable of the Oompa Loompas
A special Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory Anniversary Panel Discussion with the stars, followed by audience Q&A, will take place each day at 2:00pm and is included with admission. Additionally, the famous 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 & selfies beginning at 9 AM and will receive a VIP souvenir lanyard upon entry.
Contributing to the Wonka magic of the weekend will be a mind-blowing display of balloon sculptures depicting characters and scenes from the movie by internationally-renown balloon artist Robbie Furman. Fans of the movie are especially welcome to come dressed in Wonka-themed costumes, T-shirts and sweaters to add to the festivities.
Educational showcases and delicious demonstrations will be scheduled throughout the event, adding fun, flavor and interaction. Children of all ages can also take advantage of face painting and balloon twisting activities in The Chocolate Expo’s poplar “Kidz Zone.”
Additional event announcements are expected in Spring 2026. General Admission, VIP and Late-Day Special tickets are available online at TheChocolateExpo.com with prices starting at just $10/person for the Late-Day Special tickets.
Guests are encouraged to buy tickets online in advance due to the expected high demand, as only ticket holders can be guaranteed admission to this event.
ABOUT THE CHOCOLATE EXPO: The Chocolate Expo is a Baum Image Group event. Prior creations include The Official Woodstock35th Anniversary Celebration in 2004 under license from Woodstock Ventures, creators of the 1969 Woodstock Festival.
A limited number of advance interviews with the Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory stars– Peter Ostrum, Julie Dawn Cole and Rusty Goffe – are available upon request.
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.
Accomplished Sales Executive to Drive Mohegan Sun’s Comprehensive MICE Operations and Marketing Strategy
Kimberly Simone has been named by Mohegan Sun as the new VP of Sales & Marketing. Simone, who joined Mohegan Sun in 2023 as Director of Sales, brings nearly two decades of expertise in marketing and comprehensive sales within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. In her new role, Simone will spearhead and oversee strategic initiatives for the expansive Earth Expo & Convention Center, the Sky Convention Center, and various other venues across Mohegan Sun and the nearby Mohegan Sun Golf Club.
“Kim Simone has demonstrated exceptional insight into market trends, and will now have a well-deserved promotion to VP as she oversees the impressive, large-scale and diverse sales and marketing strategy for Mohegan Sun’s Meetings & Conventions,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the Executive team. Her leadership, expertise and dedication in delivering exceptional experiences for our meeting planners, major groups, and guests is a tremendous asset to Mohegan Sun.”
Since joining Mohegan Sun in September 2023, Simone has played a key role in driving growth to Mohegan Sun’s convention sales and property-wide hospitality. In her new role, Kim will continue to lead Mohegan Sun’s Convention Sales team, focusing on booking the world-class venues like the Earth Expo & Convention Center. This venue is home to the 125,000 square foot Earth Expo Center, which is set to host big-time shows this spring & summer such as the Wicked Gluten Free Expo on March 29th; the New England Tattoo Expo from April 11th – 13th; the New England Spring Craft Festival on May 10th – 11th; the CT Pickle Festival on July 25th and the return of TerrifiCon from August 8th-10th.
Simone is also a graduate of Bryant College in Smithfield, RI, and the Walt Disney World College Program in Orlando, Florda. She sat on the board for the CT River Valley chapter of MPI (Meeting Professionals International) as the Vice President of Membership and the Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Simone was also a member of the New York and New England chapters of PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) and served as a member of the Greater New York Chapter of HSMAI (Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International). Simone also sits on the Executive Committee of the Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau Board of Directors. Previous conventions & sales experience include the Director of Sales at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina in Old Saybrook, CT as well as the Director of Resort Sales at Foxwoods Casino Resort from 2019 to 2021. Prior to this role, Simone was the National Sales Manager for the resort, strategically managing sales operations while tracking and analyzing data to strengthen forward-looking strategy.
In addition to Mohegan Sun’s two large-scale convention centers, various venues across the 5.5 million square-foot entertainment destination can host major conferences, private parties, meetings and conventions and that includes Mohegan Sun Arena, Comix Roadhouse, the Cabaret Theatre, TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge, novelle, Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook, Vista Lounge at Wombi Rock and unique outdoor event spaces like the new and improved Sun Patio at Mohegan Sun. For more information on all things Meetings & Conventions at Mohegan Sun, visit meetings.mohegansun.com
Kimberly Simone currently resides in Mystic, CT.
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.
One of the largest gluten-free expos in the country takes over the Earth Expo & Convention Center on Saturday, March 29th
WHAT: The Wicked Gluten Free Expo, a nationally recognized, premier resource for healthy gluten-free living, has arrived at Mohegan Sun.
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, March 29th | 10:00am – 6:00pm | Earth Expo Center & Convention Center
IN DETAIL: The Wicked Gluten Free Expo is stopping by the Earth Expo & Convention Center at Mohegan Sun for the first time! Known as one of the largest expos of its kind in the country, the Wicked Gluten Free Expo offers a day of discovering, shopping and sampling food items that are certified gluten-free (including vegan and allergen-free options). Guests will have the chance to interact with over 100 exhibitors and products will be available for purchase. Dr. Steve Harmon, Chef Alina Eisenhauer and Lorraine Fagela will have special demos and presentations dedicated to learning more about allergen-free living. This is a family-friendly event – Mohegan Sun’s youngest guests are encouraged check out the kids’ zone and play area. Food trucks will be on-hand serving up a variety of options, so all guests are encouraged to come hungry!
Tickets are on sale now via the Wicked Gluten Free website. Discounted tickets are offered for guests ages 6 – 12. Due to demand, admission to this event will be staggered to manage crowds. Guests can purchase tickets for their preferred entry time and stay for as long as they’d like.
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.
Mary Wren, a 20+ year Team Member and Chris Greaney, a 10-year Team Member, Appointed to Vice President roles
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 24, 2025) – Mohegan Sun is excited to announce the promotions of Mary Wren to Vice President of Hotel Operations and Chris Greaney to Vice President of Food & Beverage. Both Wren and Greaney have enjoyed long and impactful careers at Mohegan Sun, bringing immense value, leadership and talent to their new executive positions.
“Mohegan Sun is home to one of the busiest hotels in the region in addition to being a world-class destination for exceptional dining experiences and the success we’ve seen in both of these categories isn’t possible without the expertise and drive by leaders like Mary and Chris!” -Said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “I am excited for their next chapter and very much look forward to working with them as we continue to deliver unmatched service and lasting memories for our guests.”
Mary Wren started in 2002 with Mohegan Sun’s very first hotel team, helping to welcome guests for their first overnight stays at Sky Tower. Her career in hotel operations grew from there as Wren became Front Office Manager, Hotel Manager and Director of Operations before her latest promotion to VP of Hotel Operations. Wren also played an integral role in launching Mohegan Pennsylvania’s first hotel in 2013 and was a major player in the opening Mohegan Sun’s second hotel tower, Earth Tower, in 2016. As VP of Hotel Operations, Wren will oversee hotel operations and lead strategic planning for the overall hotel team at Mohegan Sun, in addition to leading the Environmental Services (EVS) team.
Chris Greaney began his career at Mohegan Sun in 2014 as the Service Manager at Bar American and from there, he became Operations Manager at Todd English’s Tuscany shortly before being named Director of Fine Dining for Mohegan Sun. As the VP of F&B, Greaney will oversee all areas of Mohegan Sun’s owned or managed restaurant, lounge and nightlife offerings. This includes guiding operations and top-notch guest service for a variety of eateries and fine dining attractions across Mohegan Sun, including the likes of: TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge, novelle, Todd English’s Tuscany, Sunrise Square Food Court, Thirty-Three Lounge, The Crafty Slice and the all-new Beauty & Essex. Greaney played a key role in recent Mohegan Sun beverage partnerships with regional brands like Waypoint Spirits, Downeast Cider and Two Roads Brewing Company – which produced the popular Jackpot Juice Hazy IPA.
Chris Greaney resides in Mystic with his wife and two children and studied Civil Engineering at UConn prior transitioning into Hospitality, starting his gourmet career with Tom Colicchios Craftsteak.
Mary Wren is a graduate of UConn (School of Business) and currently resides in Waterford with her two children and their family dog, Charley.
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.
