© 2022 Experience Hartford. All right reserved.
Created by Lumi Hospitality
Updated for 2023
If you're anything like us, you're probably in the holiday spirit the moment Halloween ends and November begins. Whatever you celebrate, there's something about November and December that is cozy and magical, especially in Hartford! Looking for ways to spread cheer and good vibes during this season of giving? We've put together a guide for upcoming holiday shopping, events, pop-ups, and more, so keep on reading.
Pratt Street
When: The Pratt Street Winter Village will be open December 8th - 9th and 15th - 16th
For a second year in a row, Pratt Street is being transformed into an open-air outdoor holiday market! For two weekends in a row, we invite you to head to the charming brick-lined street that will be decked out for the holidays and experience the magic of Pratt Street Winter Village. Shop from local artisans popping up on the street as well as any of the Pratt Street retail businesses. Plus, enjoy live musical performances and demonstrations, and don’t forget to stop by the street’s various restaurants and bars for a bite and a drink! Head to the street on the Friday dates from 2 - 7 pm and on the Saturday dates from 1 - 6 pm.
Bushnell Park
When: November 24th - January
One of the city’s most beloved traditions will be back starting Friday, November 24th. Winterfest brings free ice skating, rentals, classes, and so much more to Bushnell Park throughout the holiday season! From November 24th through early January, experience true holiday joy perfect for the whole family. The rink will be open Monday through Friday, from noon to 8 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am – 8 pm. Check out their website for more information.
Connecticut Convention Center
When: November 18th - December 23rd
What is a better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a festival of lights? Glow Hartford is returning to the Connecticut Convention Center to put on a dazzling display of twinkling lights. From interactive light gardens to illuminated structures, plus food, drinks and other activities, this is not one to miss. Glow Hartford will start on November 18th and go through December 23rd. Be sure to check their website for hours of operation and to purchase tickets online.
Hartford Union Station
When: November 24 - December 23
Shop local all season long at Winterfair! Taking place in Hartford Union Station’s Great Hall, Winterfair will have over 30 vendors at each of their twelve market days, with over 100 small businesses participating. Check out Winterfair on Fridays 4–8 pm, Saturdays 12-5 pm, and Sundays 12–5 pm. There will be food trucks, coffee, a visit from Santa and so much more. Visit their Instagram to stay in the know!
Wadsworth Atheneum
Celebrate art, community, and longstanding holiday traditions at the Wadsworth Atheneum. Since 1973, the Wadsworth has put on the Festival of Trees & Traditions where artists, organizations, and community members come together and decorate holiday trees and wreaths to be displayed throughout the showrooms from November 30th - December 10th. All items on display are for sale and proceeds go to support the museum’s programs, operating costs, and more.