'Stroll' Into The Holiday Spirit In West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Generally, organizers of popular civic events would like Mother Nature to refrain from any precipitation when said event take place.

But for Thursday, Dec. 1, it's likely organizers wouldn't mind a few snowflakes for the 35th annual Holiday Stroll, which will take place this year at Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center.
The event will be from 5 to 8 p.m. — rain, snow or shine. (Though a little snow is probably desired.)
According to organizers, the stroll is West Hartford’s classic New England-style holiday showcase, a "free, family-friendly annual event has something for everyone."

Guests will be able to meet Santa & Mrs. Claus, sample tasty treats from area restaurants, listen to carolers and musicians, climb aboard a fire truck, see ballet dancers perform scenes from "The Nutcracker," and more.

It all starts at Blue Back Square — 65 Memorial Road — at 5 p.m., with the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony.

Meanwhile, holiday entertainment will be showcased on three stages beginning at 5 p.m.: Webster Walk at Blue Back Square; Farmington Avenue stage and the Peoples Bank parking lot, 102 LaSalle Road.

The Blue Back Square stage will feature performances by the Ballet Theater Company, Rock This Town Orchestra and a flash mob dance.

In addition, guests can stop by to say hello to "Chompers" and "Chew Chew," the two Hartford Yard Goats mascots, and get their pictures taken too.

Isham Road in Blue Back Square will be closed to vehicle traffic for special activities.

The Farmington Avenue stage will have performances by Playhouse on Park, The Mandell JCC, Hall High Choraliers and Ballet Hartford.

The Peoples Bank lot will showcase The School of Rock.

If that wasn't enough, families can stroll the streets of Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center to see the window displays created by West Hartford’s shop proprietors and take advantage of special promotions and activities.

Parking is available in the Isham, Memorial and Town Center garages and at the municipal lots at West Hartford Town Hall, Brace Road and Farmington Avenue. Parking rates apply.

The event is made possible by the support of its sponsors: Peoples Bank, TD Bank, Westfield Bank, 2020 Media, 102.9 The Whale and Radio 104.1 WMRQ.

It is being hosted by the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce, Blue Back Square, West Hartford Center Business Association, the Town of West Hartford and 2020 Media.