UNCASVILLE, CT (October 21, 2025) – Get ready to Rock as Mohegan Sun Arena is thrilled to welcomes the one and only Bret Michaels for an unforgettable night of all killer hits, high energy, and pure rock ‘n’ roll on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Fans can expect the 8:00pm Live & Amplified 2026 show to be packed with smash hit songs and electrifying stage presence as the multi-platinum frontman delivers his signature “Nothin’ But a Good Time” experience.
Tickets go on sale via Ticketmaster at 10:00am on Friday, October 24th, and will be available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office starting Saturday, October 25th.
With over three generations of fans, Bret Michaels is revered as a megastar in the entertainment industry. One of music’s most iconic singer/songwriters, Michaels has sold over 100 million records, digital downloads and streams worldwide and had numerous hit singles including Every Rose Has Its Thorn, Go That Far, and Nothing But A Good Time.
His record-breaking television shows include Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, Life As I know It, and the Travel Channel’s Bret Michaels Rock My RV as well as the audience fan favorite Banana in the Fox hit show The Masked Singer.
In addition to his music and television successes, Michaels is well-known as a creative entrepreneur. After winning The Celebrity Apprentice, Michaels went on to create the only product to have lived on past the show – his famous Snapple Trop-A-Rocka Iced Tea. Michaels, a lifelong diabetic and the son of a veteran, has always made giving back a priority throughout his career. Having been twice named Humanitarian of the Year by the world-famous Hollywood Christmas Parade, the musician’s Life Rocks Foundation continues to provide support to a myriad of charities and causes around the globe. Find all the latest tour dates, news and more, visit www.BretMichaels.com or on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA
Mohegan Sun Arena, one of the busiest sports and entertainment venues in the world, was awarded the 2024 Newsweek Readers’ Choice award for “Best Casino with Live Entertainment in America.” Mohegan Sun Arena was also named “Best Casino/Resort Venue of the Year” at the 35th Annual Pollstar Awards. In 2021, the 10,000-seat Arena also received its first worldwide “#1 Indoor Arena” ranking for its size from both Pollstar and VenuesNow. In recent years, the “Most Beloved Venue in America” has also been named the “World’s Best Casino Venue,” by Hartford Magazine, and is an eight-time national award winner for “Arena of the Year” by the Academy of Country Music Awards and one from G2E Las Vegas. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit the Mohegan Sun website. For this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711. Complimentary self-parking is available in three convenient garages.
The multi-platinum girl group brings two shows to Uncasville on Friday, December 12th and Saturday, December 13th
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 15, 2025) – Mohegan Sun is excited to welcome one of the most successful girl groups of the 2000s, Danity Kane, for two back-to-back performances at The Cabaret Theatre (The Cab) this December. Both shows will begin at 8:00pm.
Danity Kane is one of the most accomplished female groups in modern music. They are the first ladies in history to debut their first two albums at #1 on Billboard. Their debut release Danity Kane – spent fifteen weeks on the Billboard 200. The self-titled album reached RIAA Platinum certification. The group’s follow-up album – Welcome To The Dollhouse – earned RIAA Gold certification, spending over twenty weeks on the Billboard 200.
Danity Kane has won a Billboard Award, an Urban Music Award, and been nominated for two MTV Awards, a Teen Choice Award, and a Soul Train Music Award. The group has scored nine Billboard charted hits including “Show Stopper”, “Ride For You”, “Lemonade” ft. Tyga, “Sleep On It”, “Lights Out”, “Touching My Body”, “Ecstasy” ft. Rick Ross, “Bad Girl” ft. Missy Elliott, and “Damaged” – the #1 worldwide hit which charted in over 30 countries.
To celebrate their 20th anniversary, the ladies are back. DK – The Untold Chapter Tour.
Three voices of the storied group will hit the road and step on stage together for the first time in years. It will be a night filled with new takes on their hit music, unexpected confessions, and moments which will never happen the same way twice. DK is determined to inspire their fans and write an entirely new chapter of the DK story. The world has heard their music and seen the headlines. But the truth has never been told. Until now.
ABOUT THE CABARET THEATRE
The 450-seat Cabaret Theatre, known also as “The Cab”is a beautiful venue in Mohegan Sun’s Casino of the Sky that returns in full force in 2025 hosting acts like Anthony Rodia, Roy Wood, Jr., The Bacon Brothers and more. Throughout its history, “The Cab” has showcased dynamic music, popular comedy performances and intimate special events. Opened in 2002, top performers and personalities who have had events inside The Cabaret Theatre include: Dionne Warwick, Al Jarreau, Tony Danza, Neil Sedaka, Joey McIntyre, Michael Bublé, Lou Rawls, Tony Bennett, Wanda Sykes, Paul Anka, Smothers Brothers, Tony Orlando, Derek Jeter, Aaron Lewis, Indigo Girls, Dave Attell, Chris Botti, Air Supply and Chelsea Handler.
Guests can Enjoy $50 in Free Slot Play and a new Slot Tournament Zone episode of Back of House too!
Located near the Cabaret Theatre in Casino of the Sky, Mohegan Sun is thrilled to unveil the Sky Slot Tournament Zone, the first of its kind at Mohegan Sun. This vibrant new slot zone is exclusive to IGT games – and features games like Wheel of Fortune, Hex Breaker, Cleopatra and Stinkin’ Rich, all of which seamlessly switch between tournament mode and regular play. With the popularity in slot tournaments on the rise, the new Sky Slot Tournament Zone at Mohegan Sun delivers a fun and exciting tournament space for Momentum guests. Additionally, Mohegan Sun is rolling out a special hotel package celebrating the new tournament zone, and it comes equipped with $50 in Free Slot Play!
“This new slot lounge in Casino of the Sky featuring 40+ IGT games and featured currently on BackofHouse.TV is now the central hub for our popular slot tournaments held year-round,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “Mohegan Sun is an industry leader when it comes to loyalty perks — and our frequent, high-energy slot tournaments certainly help take the Momentum experience to the next level.”
Available for guests 21+, the “Lights, Slots, Action Hotel Package” includes a $50 Free Slot Play voucher as part of an overnight stay, subject to availability. The hotel package is also inspired by Mohegan Sun’s hit Reality Web Series, “Back of House” of which episode two explores the launch of this reimagined tournament zone. For more details and for booking, guests can click HERE. Travel dates for this package are available now through January 31, 2026.
*A Momentum account is required for this hotel package and guests can sign-up for free at any Player’s Club booth at Mohegan Sun.
Slot tournaments at Mohegan Sun often feature prize pools of up to $50,000, with advantageous grand prizes! On-site registration is required for Momentum guests at the Sky Slot Tournament Zone or Tournament Zone kiosks during the tournament. The next tournament in the Sky Slot Tournament Zone arrives at 4:00pm on Tuesday, November 11th as part of the $15k Veteran’s Day Slot Tournament. For more information on this tournament, and to stay tuned for all upcoming tournaments, guests can also visit: mohegansun.com/slottournaments
Mohegan Sun’s Momentum program is free to join for guests 21+ at any Player’s Club booth. Members earn Momentum Dollars and Status Points through in-person and online play at MoheganSunCasino.com. Benefits include exclusive event invites, hotel discounts or comps, concert tickets, Mandara Spa savings, complimentary golf rounds, dining specials, priority seating, Momentum Partner deals, personalized travel service, and more.
ABOUT BACK OF HOUSE
“Back of House” swings the doors of hospitality and entertainment wide open. It is a trailblazing all-access pass to the action behind the action at one of the world’s largest integrated casino resortdestinations, Mohegan Sun. Enjoy following fun, dedicated resort employees as they navigate obstacles and challenges in their quests to make each guest’s stay a perfect getaway experience. For more information, visit backofhouse.tv where you can also book a room, buy show tickets, gift cards, Mohegan Sun merchandise, and even check out careers with Mohegan Sun.
Boy George & Culture Club Set to Bring Their Iconic Sound to Mohegan Sun Arena in March
The Grammy Award-winning Pop legends return with an unforgettable night of timeless hits, and vibrant style
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 14, 2025) – Mohegan Sun Arena is set to welcome one of the most influential Pop groups of all time when Boy George & Culture Club take the stage at 7:00pm on Sunday, March 1st, 2026, for a night celebrating decades of chart-topping hits, colorful charisma, and the unmistakable voice that helped define an era.
Tickets go on sale Friday, October 17th at 10:00am via Ticketmaster.com. Subject to availability, fans of the English Pop Rock band can purchase tickets at the Mohegan Sun Box Office starting on Saturday, October 18th.
ABOUT BOY GEORGE
When Boy George first appeared on Top of the Pops with Culture Club in 1982, he instantly had people talking. The New Romantic Pop sensations went on to achieve seven UK Top 10 singles, nine Top 10 singles in the USA, and nine Top 20 singles in Australia – including “Karma Chameleon” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – and sell over 100 million singles and 50 million albums worldwide. In 1984, the band picked up the Grammy Award for “Best New Artist”, and the awards for “Best British Group” and “Best British Single” at the BRIT Awards.
Culture Club became the first group since The Beatles to have three Top 10 hits in America from a debut album, and the first group in music history to have an album certified diamond in Canada. After Culture Club’s split in 1986, Boy George released his debut solo single “Everything I Own”, which reached #1 in the UK and reached the Top 10 in an additional eight countries. In a solo career spanning three decades, Boy George has released nine studio albums, as well as 1993’s At Worst… The Best of Boy George and Culture Club compilation album.
Boy George has written and released three memoirs; 1995’s Take It Like a Man, 2005’s Straight and 2023’s Karma. All three have become UK best sellers, with the latter staying in The Sunday Times’ best-seller list for six weeks.
Boy George debuted at Number 1 on the Official Vinyl Singles Chart for his collaboration with Kim Wilde – “Shine On”! Boy George & Culture Club recently performed a series of exclusive UK outdoor shows as part of Heritage Live Concert Series for 2021, which included a very special date at Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath in July 2022. In 2024 Culture Club did a very successful arena tour of their first two albums, performing both albums in full.
ABOUT CULTURE CLUB
Since their inception in 1981, Culture Club have sold more than 150 million records worldwide, recognized as a Grammy Award winning UK institution with a stream of classic hits including “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me”, “Karma Chameleon”, “Church Of The Poison Mind”, “Victims”, “It’s A Miracle” and “The War Song”. The group are fronted by singer/songwriter Boy George, universally loved as one of music’s most iconic artists, with Roy Hay on guitar/keyboard and Mikey Craig on bass. As the first multi-racial band with an openly gay front man, Culture Club set many records and established themselves as icons of British musical history and popular culture.
Boy George & Culture Club recently performed a series of exclusive UK outdoor shows as part of Heritage Live Concert Series, which included a very special date at Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath in July 2022. In 2024, Culture Club performed a very successful arena tour, large scale stage production of their first two albums, Kissing To Be Clever & Colour By Numbers, performing both albums in full.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA
Mohegan Sun Arena, one of the busiest sports and entertainment venues in the world, was awarded the 2024 Newsweek Readers’ Choice award for “Best Casino with Live Entertainment in America.” Mohegan Sun Arena was also named “Best Casino/Resort Venue of the Year” at the 35th Annual Pollstar Awards. In 2021, the 10,000-seat Arena also received its first worldwide “#1 Indoor Arena” ranking for its size from both Pollstar and VenuesNow. In recent years, the “Most Beloved Venue in America” has also been named the “World’s Best Casino Venue,” by Hartford Magazine, and is an eight-time national award winner for “Arena of the Year” by the Academy of Country Music Awards and one from G2E Las Vegas. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit the Mohegan Sun website. For this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711. Complimentary self-parking is available in three convenient garages.
Prestigious industry recognition celebrates Mohegan Sun’s continued commitment to hosting world-class entertainment
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 9, 2025) – Mohegan Sun, home to two award winning venues including the 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun Arena as well as the iconic 350 seat Wolf Den in Uncasville, Connecticut, was honored in Nashville on Tuesday, October 7th, with its third International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) Award for “Casino of the Year.” This prestigious global recognition celebrates Mohegan Sun Arena as one of the premier live entertainment venues in the world and represents the top honor bestowed by IEBA members comprised of leading talent buyers, promoters, and entertainment professionals across the industry.
“We’re always honored to be nominated for these impactful entertainment industry awards, let alone win,” said Tom Cantone, President of Sports & Entertainment for Mohegan. “This recognition is a testament to the incredible team that runs our venues and to the long-standing relationships we’ve built with agents and artists who love performing at Mohegan Sun Arena and experiencing our world-class resort.”
The International Entertainment Buyers Association Honors and Awards Ceremony took place October 7th in downtown Nashville’s Grand Hyatt. The awards are voted on by top entertainment executives in the nation including the biggest agencies, artist management groups and other arenas, theatres and clubs throughout the U.S.
This marks Mohegan Sun’s third IEBA award, joining previous wins in 2015 and 2017. Fallsview Casino Resort, a sister property within the Mohegan enterprise featuring the 5,000-seat OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino, was also nominated for the Casino of the Year honor. This was the first time two venues from the same organization, located in different countries, have been recognized in the same category for the IEBA awards.
For a full list of winners and imagery from the 2025 IEBA Honors & Awards, visit facebook.com/iebaconference
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 the 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun Arena and the legendary Wolf Den . 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.
Audiences will experience this season’s breathless excitement
and glamour up-close, and personal
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 8, 2025) – Dancing with the Stars is hotter than ever – and now it’s hitting the road with a 74-date tour across North America! After a sold-out tour earlier this year, DWTS returns in 2026 with a brand-new live show, including a stop at Mohegan Sun Arena on January 30th and 31st for back-to-back 8:00pm performances.
Tickets go on sale at 10:00am on Friday, October 10th via Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office starting Saturday, October 11th, subject to availability. For Friday tickets, click HERE and for Saturday, click HERE.
With more than 35 million votes cast weekly by viewers, Dancing with the Stars: Live! jumps from screen to stage with an all-star cast of professional dancers: Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Daniella Karagach, Pasha Pashkov, Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Britt Stewart and Hailey Bills. Under the direction of Emmy Award- winning choreographer Mandy Moore (La La Land, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour), these fan favorites bring the artistry and athleticism of the ballroom to life in an unforgettable live experience.
The momentum comes at a high point for the franchise: the Season 34 premiere ranked as the #1 most mentioned show on social media across all broadcast and cable and generated more than double the number of audience votes compared to the Season 33 premiere. That passion now extends beyond the ballroom, offering audiences nationwide the rare opportunity to experience the energy, excitement, and star power of Dancing with the Stars live on stage.
“We cannot wait for all the fans of DWTS to come out and enjoy the show we have dreamed up for this year’s tour. These dancers are simply the best in the world at what they do, and we hope that everyone is as thrilled as we are to enjoy this one-of-a kind all-new show that brings the tv show we all love to life LIVE in venues across North America.” – Jared Paul, Faculty Inc
Dancing with the Stars: Live! is produced by Faculty Productions in association with BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions and is promoted by Live Nation and NS2.
Dancing with the Stars airs live Tuesday nights (8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT) on ABC, Disney+ and is available to stream the next day on Hulu.
ABOUT FACULTY PRODUCTIONS
Faculty, formed by veteran manager and producer Jared Paul in partnership with Live Nation, the world’s leading live entertainment company, produces and creates world-class live branded entertainment and concerts. Faculty is responsible for some of the most successful global touring productions including the Faculty-managed New Kids on the Block recently completed 46-city Magic Summer 2024 Tour, which sold over 500,000 tickets, and the upcoming multi-year Las Vegas Residency: The Right Stuff, set to open in June 2025; and the Big Time Rush 2023 Can’t Get Enough Tour and 2024’s sold-out EU/UK and Australia/Asia Tours. Big Time Rush returned in 2022 after 9 years with sold out shows in the US and Mexico including stops at legendary venues such as Madison Square Garden. In 2022, Faculty produced the first-ever CHEER LIVEtour with stars from the Netflix series, are the long-time producers of the Dancing with the Stars: Live! Tour, and producers of Move Live on Tour (Derek Hough and Julianne Hough), Glee Live! In Concert!, America’s Got Talent Live!, American Idol Live!, and So You Think You Can DanceLive Tour. In 2017, Faculty and Paul created the acclaimed immersive pop-up art exhibit HAPPY PLACE, which started in Los Angeles before moving to locations across the US and Canada and most recently to Sydney, Australia and New Zealand. In 2023-2024, Faculty produced COCOMELON PARTY TIME an all-new, first-of-its-kind, kid-centric event centering on JJ, Cody & friends from the hugely popular children’s program CoComelon, the #2 most subscribed YouTube channel in the world with over 400 million views per month. Party Time has visited 28 cities thus far across the US and Canada entertaining thousands of families.
ABOUT BBC STUDIOS
The main commercial arm of BBC Commercial Ltd, BBC Studios generated revenues in the last year of £1.8 billion and a third consecutive year of profits of over £200 million. Able to take an idea seamlessly from thought to screen and beyond, the business is built on two operating areas: the Content Studio, which produces, invests and distributes content globally and Media & Streaming, with BBC branded channels, services including bbc.com and BritBox International and joint ventures in the UK and internationally. The business made more than 2,800 hours of award-winning British programs last year for a wide selection of public service and commercial broadcasters and platforms, both in the UK and across the globe. Its content is internationally recognized across a broad range of genres and specialisms, and includes world-famous brands like Strictly Come Dancing/Dancing with the Stars, the Planet series, Bluey and Doctor Who.
In the U.S, BBC Studios operates both a distribution business and one of its major production units. The production unit, based in Los Angeles, creates and produces adaptations of UK programs, as well as all new original programs, for linear and digital platforms in the U.S. This production unit is responsible for the phenomenally successful, Emmy®-winning Dancing with the Stars, the multi-award-winning Life Below Zero franchise, the popular reboot of the classic quiz show Weakest Link, the US version of the global sensation The 1% Club, the revved up Top Gear America, and the survival competition series Outlast. In scripted, the team has achieved success adapting British hits, including Ghosts, Call Me Kat (based on the UK format Miranda) and Welcome to Flatch (This Country in the UK) for top U.S. broadcast networks.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA
Mohegan Sun Arena, one of the busiest sports and entertainment venues in the world, was awarded the 2024 Newsweek Readers’ Choice award for “Best Casino with Live Entertainment in America.” Mohegan Sun Arena was also named “Best Casino/Resort Venue of the Year” at the 35th Annual Pollstar Awards. In 2021, the 10,000-seat Arena also received its first worldwide “#1 Indoor Arena” ranking for its size from both Pollstar and VenuesNow. In recent years, the “Most Beloved Venue in America” has also been named the “World’s Best Casino Venue,” by Hartford Magazine, and is an eight-time national award winner for “Arena of the Year” by the Academy of Country Music Awards and one from G2E Las Vegas. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit the Mohegan Sun website. For this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711. Complimentary self-parking is available in three convenient garages.
Electrifying DJs, Special Giveaways, and Unforgettable parties takeover VISTA Lounge, Avalon Nightclub, The Cab and much more; Halloween Festivities kick-off on Friday, October 24th
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 7, 2025) – With Halloween just around the corner, guests are invited to a hauntingly good time at Mohegan Sun! Now through Sunday, November 2nd, guests can enjoy the decked out and buzzworthy Spookeasy Pop-up Bar in Mohegan Sun’s Sky Tower hotel lobby, serving drink specials like the Witch’s Snare with Grey Goose Vodka, sour apple, lemon sour and gummy candy. Additionally, the resort is set to come alive with thrilling entertainment, outrageous costumes, and family-friendly fun.
Guests can head to the Wolf Den on Friday, October 24th at 8:00pm for a free performance by Here Come the Mummies, an eight-piece Funk-Rock band of 5000-year-old Egyptian mummies. Known for their “Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave,” this high-energy group promises a night of unforgettable grooves and ghoulish fun. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first served basis.
On Saturday, October 25th at 9:00pm, Avalon Nightclub will be pulsing with beats from DJ Tommy Carlucci during the Open Costume Party. Guests can compete for thrilling prizes including VIP experiences, hotel stays, and $200 gift cards to popular Mohegan Sun restaurants like Michael Jordan’s Steak House, The Farm Italy at Ballo Italian, and TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge. Additional prizes will be awarded for Best Group Costume, Most Creative Costume, and Best Arcade/Sports Theme, with perks from Game On including a bowling lane and Free Play Cards. Also at 9:00pm, VISTA Lounge at Wombi Rock is set to host a Halloween Costume Party featuring champagne, cocktails, and dancing! Additionally, the Best Overall Costume will win a free VIP experience at the venue.
The Halloween excitement continues on Friday, October 31st with Fright Night @ The Cab: A Halloween Experience. Starting at 9:00pm, DJ K’Otic will take over The Cabaret Theatre with electrifying video mixes, creating a night of music, madness, and mayhem. Expect the unexpected with surprise pop-up performances of iconic Halloween hits like Thriller and Time Warp, guaranteed to get guests’ bones moving. Come dressed to impress (or distress!) for an ultimate costume contest, where creativity, creepiness, and killer style are all rewarded. Tickets to Fright Night @ The Cab: A Halloween Experience are on sale now and can be purchased HERE. Also on Halloween night, guests can enjoy dinner and drinks accompanied by live music at The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Families won’t be left out of the fun! Jurassic Quest with Brick Fest Live brings the ultimate adventure to town from Friday, October 31st through Sunday, November 2nd. This immersive experience combines the world’s most popular dinosaur event with the creativity of LEGO® building, offering hours of discovery and play for all ages. On Halloween evening at 5:00pm, GAME ON hosts the Games & Treats Halloween Party, featuring spider-infested bowling lanes, a spooky arcade, and chilling mocktails. Kids in costume will receive candy and a FREE 1-Hour Unlimited Play Card.
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.
Four weeks, 12 artists, and one grand prize winner will win $5,000 and a headline show in the Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 6, 2025) ––Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications are proud to announce the return of the 11th Annual Locals Live music competition, kicking off Wednesday, November 12th in the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun. Over the course of four weeks, 12 of the region’s most dynamic bands and solo performers will compete for audience votes and a place in the grand finale on December 10th. The competition offers a $5,000 grand prize and a future headlining slot in the Wolf Den joining the likes of Thomas Rhett, Chris Stapleton, and last year’s winner Chaser Eight. An additional $1,000 will be awarded to the runner-up. Locals Live once again shines a spotlight on rising talent and unforgettable live performances. Bands and solo acts interested in taking the stage can submit their entries now starting today, through 11:59pm on Sunday, October 26th via the WCTY website for a chance to be part of this year’s Locals Live lineup.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
For the purposes of this competition, talent is defined as musicians, bands, or singer-songwriters only. All talent must be 21 years of age or older and from CT, RI, MA or NY. Performers must adhere to all Mohegan Sun rules and sign a guidelines contract prior to performance. Talent must be able to set up by 5:00pm on date of performance for sound check. All rules subject to change/management interpretation.
For additional information regarding the Wolf Den, visit the Mohegan Sun website.
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.
WHAT: Mohegan Sun’s acclaimed reality web series, Back of House, returns for its ninth season tonight with a brand-new episode that takes viewers behind the scenes of one of the Northeast’s top entertainment destinations. Viewers can watch the action at backofhouse.tv!
WHEN/WHERE: Wednesday, October 1st at 7:30pm EST (and airing every Wednesday night through Wednesday, November 5th | BackofHouse.tv
IN DETAIL: Season 9 kicks off with Episode 1: “Behind the Velvet Curtain. Surprise!”, spotlighting the grand opening of Beauty & Essex, the newest culinary hotspot at Mohegan Sun. Viewers will follow the team as they prepare for the debut of this buzzworthy restaurant from celebrity chef Chris Santos, including staff training, preview events, and the big reveal.
Produced by Primal-NY, the six-episode season continues to showcase the creativity, teamwork, and personalities that make Mohegan Sun a world-class destination. Featured Team Members include:
Jeff Hamilton, President & GM
Lauren, Director of Special Events
Derrick, a day-one team member known for his humor and dedication
Geena, Multimedia Communications
Kayla, a 20-year entertainment veteran
Since its launch, Mohegan Sun’s Back of House has reached audiences in over 625 cities across 19 countries, earning multiple industry awards for its storytelling and brand impact. Upcoming episodes this season feature live music moments with members of Billy Joel’s band, a high-stakes slot tournament, the grand opening of Sift Bake Shop & A.T.Y. Bar & Bonbons by pastry star Chef Adam Young and much more.
ABOUT BACK OF HOUSE
“Back of House” swings the doors of hospitality and entertainment wide open. It is a trailblazing all-access pass to the action behind the action at one of the world’s largest integrated casino resortdestinations, Mohegan Sun. Enjoy following fun, dedicated resort employees as they navigate obstacles and challenges in their quests to make each guest’s stay a perfect getaway experience. For more information, visit backofhouse.tv where you can also book a room, buy show tickets, gift cards, Mohegan Sun merchandise, and even check out careers with Mohegan Sun.
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.
Beginning Thursday, January 22nd, Mohegan Sun’s largest annual festival returns featuring Robert Irvine, Maneet Chauhan, Michael Symon, Esther Choi, and many more!
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 30, 2025) – Mohegan Sun’s most anticipated food & wine celebration is back—and bigger than ever. From January 22 – 25, 2026, Sun Wine & Food Fest invites guests to indulge in a weekend of bold flavors, award-winning wine, top chefs and exclusive experiences. Featuring over 1,000 varieties of wine, beer, and spirits, plus appearances by celebrity chefs including Robert Irvine, Scott Conant, Antonia Lofaso, Michael Symon and Adam Young, this four-day festival blends world-class tastings with live entertainment, curated pairings, and exclusive events like the Celebrity Chef Dine Around, Vintage Cru Hosted by The USA Wine Team, and the Sun Patio Ice Bar Experience. Tickets are officially on sale, with limited availability across all events – guests can secure their spot to the 22nd Annual Sun Wine & Food Fest now via ticketmaster.com and the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability.
Thursday, January 22nd
Sun Wine & Food Fest kicks off on Thursday, January 22nd with Cocktails & Chandeliers with Chris Santos from 7:00pm – 9:00pm at Beauty & Essex. At this event, attendees will get a glimpse inside Beauty & Essex and will step into a world of sophistication and indulgence. Tickets include access to hand-passed cocktails and delicious appetizers. From 9:00pm – 11:00pm, guests can head over to A.T.Y. Bar & Bonbons for Tinis & Treats, an exclusive evening dedicated to the incredible flavors from Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y. Bar & Bonbons. At this event, guests can indulge in a flight of three handcrafted mini martinis, each expertly mixed to complement a selection of Sift Bake Shop’s finest house-made pastries and bonbons.
Friday, January 23rd
Day two of Sun Wine & Food Fest 2026 kicks off with an Exclusive Louis XIII Tasting in Beauty & Essex from 5:00pm – 7:00pm where guests can step into the world of rare and exceptional spirits as a unique opportunity is presented to savor the iconic Louis XIII Cognac. Guests can taste one of the most sought-after Cognacs and learn from a knowledgeable brand ambassador. From 6:00pm – 9:00pm in the Earth Ballroom, Suntory Global Spirits Presents: Asian Market returns with a vibrant evening where premium spirits meet their perfect pairing. The Asian Market brings together a dynamic lineup of chefs, including the well-known Esther Choi, as well as vendors providing traditional wares. From 7:00pm – 10:00pm over in the Earth Expo & Convention Center, guests can be among the first to explore the bold flavors and standout selections of Sun Wine & Food Fest as Grand Tasting Day One is set to offer early access to a curated collection of wines, craft beers, and premium spirits – paired with inspired bites from top regional restaurants. Guests can bundle up and step into a winter-inspired escape at the Sun Patio Ice Bar Experience from 9:00pm – 11:00pm. The Sun Patio Ice Bar Experience transforms the Sun Patio into a glowing, open-air lounge where frosty cocktails and cool beats set the tone. To finish up the night, guests can head over to Clay Pipe Cigar Bar for day one of Spirits & Cigars Presented by Mohegan Sun’s Barrel Select Program. From 10:00pm – Midnight, guests can explore a curated selection of premium pours, each paired with a complimentary cigar chosen to enhance its complexity.
Saturday, January 24th
Day three of the 22nd Annual Sun Wine & Food Fest will bring experiences that guests won’t want to miss. To start the day off, fine food and vino enthusiasts can attend a celebration of wine and culinary mastery at day two of Sun Wine & Food Fest’s signature event, the exquisite Grand Tasting, from Noon – 5:00pm in the Earth Expo & Convention Center. Attendees can taste from more than 1,000 varieties of wine, beer, and spirits, alongside delectable dishes from local restaurants and food trucks. Throughout the day, catch live demonstrations on theMain Stage and Coca-Cola Kitchen, where renowned chefs share their techniques, insights, and signature flair. Witness celebrity chefs like Michael Symon, Scott Conant, Maneet Chauhan, Antonia Lofaso, Marc Murphy,and more live on stage as they showcase their secrets, share expert tips, and prepare their signature dishes. Guests can learn how to decode a wine’s identity by analyzing its appearance, aroma, and palate at the Deductive Blind Tasting Seminar Hosted by The USA Wine Team from 2:00pm – 4:00pm in the Earth Ballroom. This immersive seminar introduces guests to the art of blind tasting through a structured, sensory-driven approach. From 4:00pm – 6:00pm in the Earth Ballroom, guests can step into an evening of rare discovery at Vintage Cru Hosted by The USA Wine Team. Vintage Cru is designed for true connoisseurs—an intimate tasting experience featuring some of the world’s most revered and cellar-worthy wines. Day Two of Spirits & Cigars Presented by Mohegan Sun’s Barrel Select Program is set to take place from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Clay Pipe Cigar Bar and guests can take a deeper dive into the world of premium spirits and cigars. One of Sun Wine & Food Fest’s most anticipated events, Celebrity Chef Dine Around, will take place from 8:00pm – 10:30pm in the Uncas Ballroom and will bring together more than 20 acclaimed chefs including Rocco DiSpirito, Robert Irvine, Gabe Bertaccini, and more, each presenting a signature dish crafted to surprise and inspire. From bold innovations to refined classics, this is a rare opportunity to taste the vision of chefs who are shaping the future of food.
Sunday, January 25th
Day four of Sun Wine & Food Fest 2026 will feature a WSET Level 1 Training & Certification from Noon – 2:00pm in the Earth Expo & Convention Center Meeting Rooms. Whether guests are starting their journey into the world of wine or seeking a structured foundation, this exclusive session will provide those in attendance with essential skills to taste, assess, and appreciate wine at a deeper level. Spaces are limited, guests must secure their place by Monday, January 12, 2026.
The Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation is the official charity of the 22nd Annual Sun Wine & Food Fest. The foundation’s mission is to carry on Denise’s passionate efforts to support advances in medicine and health, promote responsibility in the media, and assist those facing physical and mental challenges, while encouraging openness, courage and kindness in all endeavors. These causes were particularly close to Denise’s heart, and your generous donation will greatly assist in providing worthy organizations the support they need. Learn more about this incredible organization to benefit causes close to Denise’s heart at, https://thedenisefoundation.com/. A portion of every event ticket sold to Sun Wine & Food Fest benefits The Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation.
For the full list of Sun Wine & Food Fest events, visit the Mohegan Sun website.
Media coverage opportunities at Sun Wine & Food Fest are available. For more information, please contact Senior PR Specialist Jack Graham at [email protected].
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.
