Connecticut’s casinos saw a substantial surge in revenue this October, outpacing their earnings from the same month in both 2020 and 2019. This impressive performance indicates a promising recovery from the challenges posed by the pandemic, suggesting that the state’s gaming industry is returning to pre-pandemic norms.
Mohegan Sun Reports Impressive October Revenue
After accounting for payouts, Mohegan Sun reported an impressive revenue of $44.3 million from its slot machines for October. Jeff Hamilton, the casino’s president and general manager, expressed his satisfaction with the results, stating, “It was a great month. We celebrated our 25th anniversary. Our entertainment returned, we got back to a normal calendar.”
The resurgence of live entertainment at the Mohegan Sun Arena likely played a key role in boosting revenue. Following a lengthy period of pandemic restrictions, the arena successfully hosted five sold-out shows in October, including performances by major artists such as Harry Styles, Sebastian Maniscalco, and Blake Shelton. These events significantly contributed to the increased foot traffic and subsequent slot revenue.

Foxwoods Also Enjoys Robust October Revenue
Foxwoods Resort Casino, owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, reported $31.7 million in slot machine winnings after payouts. This marked a noteworthy success for the casino, which was also recognized by USA Today as the Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas for the second consecutive year, adding to its accolades from previous years in 2018 and 2020.
The overall growth in revenue for Connecticut’s casinos is a positive sign, particularly in light of the ongoing recovery from the pandemic. Both Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods demonstrated significant year-over-year increases, indicating a rebound in consumer confidence and engagement. For instance, Foxwoods reported a 21.5% increase in revenue compared to October 2020, rising from $26.1 million to $31.7 million. Mohegan Sun experienced an even more significant rise of 23.6%, with its October revenue climbing from $35.8 million last year to $44.3 million this year, surpassing the $43.7 million it earned in October 2019.
Jeff Hamilton recalled the uncertainty of last year, remarking, “Last October, we were in the second wave of the pandemic, and consumer confidence was really, really low.” However, he expressed optimism that this upward trend in revenue is likely to continue. “It’s not just one month,” he added. “We’ve had a fairly strong performance over the last six months.”
Connecticut Enters the Sports Betting Arena
October also marked a significant milestone for Connecticut as it legalized sports betting. Both Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods celebrated the launch of on-site sports betting with festive ribbon-cutting ceremonies, where Governor Ned Lamont placed the state’s first legal bet. Additionally, online sports betting options became available on October 19, further enhancing the state’s gaming landscape.
While no specific revenue figures for online sports betting are yet available, Governor Lamont expressed confidence in the potential success of these platforms, stating, “Connecticut has proven to be a leader when it comes to the gaming economy going back decades, and that legacy will continue with the launch of these new online options for all eligible residents.”
How Casino Revenue Benefits Connecticut
The contributions from Connecticut’s casinos extend beyond their profitability. According to the State Department of Consumer Protection, casinos are required to allocate 25% of their slot winnings to the state. For October, Foxwoods contributed approximately $7.9 million, while Mohegan Sun contributed about $11.1 million.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has caused considerable challenges for businesses, including casinos, the growth in revenue seen in 2021 signals a recovery that will benefit the casinos, their employees, and the state at large. As casino revenues continue to rise and sports betting begins to make an impact, there is hope for a prosperous future for Connecticut’s gaming industry.
Source : https://www.playct.com/news/a-jump-in-october-revenue-for-mohegan-sun-and-foxwoods-connecticut/