Waterford - A ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning kicked off a weekend celebration of the completion of a $10 million renovation at the Crystal Mall that includes a facelift of the food court, redesign of the entrances, a new children's play area and a mother's nursing room.

It was the first major overhaul of the mall since 1996, according to marketing manager Chris Bastien. The mall, owned by Simon Property Group, opened in 1984.

"It really has transformed the mall," Bastien said during a VIP reception before the ribbon cutting at 10 a.m.

The yearlong renovation, undertaken largely at night while the 775,000-square-foot mall remained open during normal hours, also involved redesign of common areas to include new tiles and mahogany accents, an overhaul of the food court restrooms, soft seating for customer comfort, a new guest services booth, as well as updated lighting and landscaping touches.

"It definitely has a more upscale feel to it," Bastien said.

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company of New Haven was general contractor for the project, and the architectural work was performed by Cube3 Studio of Lawrence, Mass.

Ronald Hanson, a senior vice president for Indianapolis-based Simon Property Group, said during the ribbon cutting that the renovation outcome "exceeds the vision we had," thanks to the work of all involved.

"It looks great," said First Selectman Daniel Steward.

The weekend celebration, which starts today and runs through Sunday, will include freeze modeling of spring and summer fashions, children's activities, food sampling, prize giveaways and other promotions. Boxer Vinny Paz, formerly known as Vinny Pazienza, will make an appearance Sunday during an event that requires a ticket to attend.

The mall will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.