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Mohegan Sun is investing $30 million in a multi-phase renovation of its 10,000-seat arena in Connecticut, the venue’s most significant transformation since it opened 25 years ago. The project, announced Nov. 6, includes new seating, upgraded dining, redesigned entrances and premium hospitality.
The arena will close temporarily on Dec. 15 and reopen on Feb. 28, 2027, for a Breaking Benjamin concert featuring Starset, P.O.D., and Filter. Tickets went on sale Nov. 6 through Ticketmaster, with box office sales beginning at noon the next day.
Developed with SCI Architects, the renovation aims to meet evolving guest demand and provide performers and promoters with a modernized venue.
Every seat replaced, entrances get LED
Every seat in the arena will be replaced. The concourse will get new flooring, lighting and finishes, and upgraded digital displays will improve visuals in the lower bowl.
Two main entrances, one near Comix Roadhouse and one at Casino of the Sky, will get 25-foot-wide LED screens above the doors and inside the vestibules, along with Halo LED screens throughout. The project also includes elevator and electrical upgrades. The first phase of restroom work will add new fixtures, better lighting and accessibility improvements.
Beer gardens become marketplaces + new VIP lounge
The arena’s beer garden outlets will become marketplace-style locations with more than 30 taps of beer and craft cocktails, plus a new grill and full kitchen. The first phase of concession upgrades will add LED screens and modernized kitchens.
One marketplace, at the arena’s north end, will use Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology. Mohegan Sun says it will speed up transactions and cut wait times.
In 2027, the project will add a VIP lounge connected to the Casino of the Sky entrance. The lounge will cover nearly 4,000 square feet and hold up to 150 guests, with a full bar and a luxury pre-show experience. Mohegan Sun has not announced an opening date.
Arena celebrates 25 years, resort 30
The renovation comes as Mohegan Sun marks its 30th anniversary and the arena its 25th. The tribal gaming resort opened in October 1996. The arena followed in fall 2001 with a preseason game between the Boston Celtics and the Washington Wizards, featuring Michael Jordan. Two Metallica performances will celebrate the arena’s anniversary in November.
Since opening, the arena has welcomed nearly 18 million guests and hosted more than 4,250 performances, said Joe Soper, Mohegan’s vice president of sports and entertainment. He said the arena “has set the standard for live entertainment in the Northeast.” It has also hosted concerts, comedy, WWE, Division I college basketball, boxing and mixed martial arts.
Jeff Hamilton, Mohegan Sun president and general manager, said the investment reflects a commitment to “continually evolving to meet the expectations of guests.”
Confirmed 2027 events after the reopening, according to the Mohegan Sun news release:
- March 18: The Red Clay Strays
- April 9: Death Cab for Cutie
- April 10: Matt Mathews
- April 28: A Perfect Circle
- April 30: Tom Segura
- May 22: Papa Roach
- June 25: Def Leppard and Goo Goo Dolls
- July 24: Greta Van Fleet
Earth Tower’s $22 million upgrade follows
The projects follow a solid financial quarter for Mohegan Sun’s operator. Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the tribal gaming enterprise that runs the resort, reported higher revenue and earnings for the quarter ended June 30. Companywide net revenue rose 3.1% to $450.6 million, and executives said the company remains focused on investing in its resort portfolio.
Mohegan Sun will begin a separate $22 million renovation of its Earth Tower hotel next summer. The resort has not said what the work will include and plans to release details later.
