Oct 6, 2025 | Uncategorized
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.
Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications will select 12 bands or solo musicians, along with two alternates, to take the Wolf Den stage for Locals Live. Beginning November 12th, four acts will perform live each Wednesday from 8:00pm to 10:00pm, continuing through December 10th (excluding November 26th). Each week, the audience will cast their votes to determine who advances to the grand finale on December 10th, where the finalists will face off in front of a panel of expert judges to crown the official Locals Live champion.
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.
# # #
Oct 1, 2025 | General News
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.
###
Sep 30, 2025 | General News, Special Events
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.
###
Sep 26, 2025 | Food & Beverage
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 26, 2025) – Mohegan Sun is about to get a whole lot spookier with the addition of the brand-new pop-up bar experience, Spookeasy! From Thursday, October 2nd through Sunday, November 2nd, Spookeasy will be serving boos, brews, and plenty of treats in the Sky Tower Lobby. At this brand-new pop-up bar experience, guests can sip on spooky cocktails, snap pics with friends, and enjoy time inside the haunted hideaway. Spookeasy will be open from 2:00pm – 10:00pm on Thursdays, 4:00pm – Midnight on Fridays, Noon – Midnight on Saturdays, and Noon – 8:00pm on Sundays.
Spookeasy will feature a variety of drink specials including Booo’s & Spirits, Select Series Private Barrels, Brews, and Hallo-wine. Some featured Booo’s & Spirits include Frozen Caramel Apple Cider which consists of Waypoint Caramel Apple Vodka, apple cider, whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, and an apple slice, a Smoky Harvest Margarita which features Cuervo Devil’s Reserve Tequila, Cointreau, apple cider, sugar rim, and an apple slice, or Black Magic which is made up of Jack Daniel’s Blackberry, Fruitful Blackberry, lime agave, sugar rim and fresh blackberries. For Select Series Private Barrels, which are only available at Mohegan Sun, guests can choose from a variety of options including, but not limited to, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Great Jones Bourbon, SONO 1420, Teeling Irish Whiskey, and Wilderness Trail Rye. Some featured Brews and Hallo-wine include Sam Adams Jack-O, Down East Liquid Luck Cider, Chardonnay, and Malbec. For a full list of drink specials, visit mohegansun.com/spookeasy.
Spookeasy will also offer guests the ability to pick their poison with a variety of candied apples that are made fresh in house. Guests can choose from chocolate dipped caramel with sprinkles, classic red candy dipped, toffee crunch dipped caramel, or classic green candy dipped.
For more details on this brand-new pop-up bar experience, visit mohegansun.com/spookeasy.
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.
###
Sep 24, 2025 | General News
Award-Winning Digital Series Returns With New Episodes Showcasing Culinary Firsts, Swanky Entertainment, and the Talented Team Who Make It All Happen
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 24, 2025) – Mohegan Sun, one of the world’s top entertainment destinations, has announced the Season 9 premiere of its homegrown reality web series, Back of House (BOH). Beginning Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. EDT, the show once again invites viewers behind the scenes for a dynamic look at the passion, teamwork, and creativity that drive Mohegan Sun’s unforgettable experiences.
“What makes Back of House special is how it shines a light on the people who bring Mohegan Sun to life for our guests,” said George Galinsky, Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications at Mohegan. “In Season 9, fans of the show and new viewers alike will witness the imagination behind every task from new flavors for foodies to high-stakes casino tournaments to unmatched entertainment — the kind of behind-the-scenes stories that may just surprise you.”
Produced by Primal-NY, the multi-award-winning series captures Mohegan Sun’s signature blend of excitement and hospitality. From the debuts of Beauty & Essex and the new Sift Bake Shop to the buzz of high-stakes tournaments and legendary free shows at the Wolf Den, the six-episode season reveals how the team members bring special, world-class experiences to life for every visitor.
Each season also highlights the personalities behind the action, who bring their own energy and expertise to the spotlight including Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager, who leads with vision and heart; Lauren, Director of Special Events, known for her creativity in crafting unforgettable moments; and Derrick, a day one team member dedicated to inclusion and fun who’s humor and talent are boundless. Alongside them, rising voices like Geena, HR Communications Specialist, and Kayla, who’s been creating memorable entertainment for over 20 years.
Season 9 Highlights:
- Episode 1: Behind the Velvet Curtain. Surprise! (10/1)
The opening of Beauty & Essex brings star chef Chris Santos and his acclaimed cuisine to Mohegan Sun. Viewers follow team members as they coordinate training, preview events, and the exciting reveal of one of the region’s most buzzworthy dining experiences.
- Episode 2: Lights, Slots and Tournament Action (10/8)
With only weeks to spare, the team works to launch a reimagined slot tournament zone in a brand-new location. Clearing machines, installing new setups, and running a high-energy test event for employees set the stage for even bigger guest competitions.
- Episode 3: Making Memories! Unplugged and Unforgettable (10/15)
Music fans are treated to back-to-back shows as the entertainment team preps for Billy Joel in the Arena and welcomes his guitarist Mike DelGuidice for a free Wolf Den performance. From behind-the-scenes hustle to unforgettable on-stage moments, this episode captures Mohegan Sun’s live backstageentertainment magic.
- Episode 4: Mohegan’s Got Talent – and Everything Else (10/22)
Hundreds of employees audition to showcase their talents in the annual team member talent show. Singers, dancers, comedians, and more take the stage, proving the Mohegan Sun spirit shines just as bright off the clock.
- Episode 5: Anchors Up, Bets Down. Too Much Fun (10/29)
The team highlights the resort’s reach far beyond its massive walls, from the Steelpointe Yacht Show to the Travelers Golf Championship and the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. The episode reveals how Mohegan Sun’s online casino app allows guests to play anywhere and everywhere they want to – whether on-site or off.
- Episode 6: Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice (11/5)
National television pastry star Chef Adam Young brings a local favorite, Sift Bake Shop of Mystic, CT to Mohegan Sun with mouthwatering treats and endless sweet surprises at the ribbon cutting and beyond. This finale delivers a heartfelt backstage pass to what it takes to open a new culinary gem.
Fans are invited to tune in each week at backofhouse.tv, where they’ll also find behind-the-scenes extras and details on special giveaways and hotel packages throughout the season.
Since launching, Back of House has attracted viewers in more than 625 cities across 19 countries, earning recognition from multiple industry awards – including Platinum and Gold distinctions from HSMAI, the Telly Awards, Vega, MarCom, and the Communicator Awards, which highlight the series’ creativity and continued impact in industry storytelling.
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 resort destinations, 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 PRIMAL NY
Primal NY is a full-service production studio specializing in brand discovery, digital strategy, content creation and distribution. Primal positions clients in ideal Digital, TV and Film scenarios. Based in New York City, the award-winning team of diverse filmmakers has experience across many industries including fashion, sports, music, hospitality, and motion pictures. Primal seeks relationships where opportunities exist to develop original content that enhances a client’s brand identity by finding unique ways to tell their stories. For more information, visit primal-ny.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.
###
