Bushnell Park's Winterfest Offers Free Fun For Hartford Region

HARTFORD, CT — The weather may not be as frightful as what's described in classic, holiday songs waxing poetic about Jack Frost or snow being "delightful."

But, since Nov. 25 and continuing until Jan. 8, 2023, Hartford's Bushnell Park is still celebrating the season through the 12th annual Winterfest, which showcases everything the 60 Elm St. park has to offer.

The festival is open to the public Monday through Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

And, even better, the fun and winter frolic of this festival doesn't dent the family budget. Most of the attractions, including ice skating and skate rentals, are free.

Getting there isn't even that hard too, with the park accessible via public transportation and several opportunities for free parking in certain locations.

The event is also being included in the State of Connecticut's ongoing "Find Your Vibe" tourism campaign, a project Gov. Ned Lamont recently announced was being extended to include the state's winter attractions, with Hartford's Winterfest topping the list.

This program, according to state officials, "puts a spotlight on the abundant activities and experiences available to visitors in Connecticut during the season."

“Winter is a special time in Connecticut,” Lamont said in a recent announcement. “The state has breathtaking unspoiled nature that attracts outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for both traditional and unexpected experiences, whether it’s the charm and relaxing hospitality visitors have come to know in Connecticut or the abundance of winter experiences like skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing and tubing spread across the state. Those who prefer more of a city vibe will also find a real energy throughout our urban communities.”

Noelle Stevenson, director of the Connecticut Office of Tourism, said the "Find Your Vibe" project was supposed to be for summer attractions and events, but its success spawned its extension to winter.

“This campaign has outpaced all expectations,” Stevenson said. “It continues to generate eye-catching results and speaks to the incredible energy, vibrancy, edginess, and diversity that is offered in Connecticut.

"Visitors can kick off the holidays with spectacular Christmas tree lightings, dine fireside with cuisines inspired by some of our acclaimed award-winning chefs, or enjoy family and friends around the fire outside at a vineyard or one of our ski resorts," she said.

For more information on the Connecticut Office of Tourism, click on this link.

For more information on Hartford's Winterfest at Bushnell Park, click on this link.