Winterfest Hartford
Winterfest Hartford transforms Bushnell Park into a magical winter wonderland, offering free public ice skating, lessons, and rentals. This beloved annual tradition brings the community together for festive outdoor fun, with special appearances by Santa and local performers, creating cherished holiday memories for all ages.
What to Expect
Free outdoor ice skating rink in Bushnell Park
Event Details
Duration
11:00 am to 8:00 pm daily (with special hours on holidays)
Ages
All ages (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
Neighborhood
Downtown Hartford
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Night Fall Hartford Puppets
- Hartford Steel Drum Symphony
- MakerSpace
- Sea Tea Improv
- Hartford Hot Several
- Hartford Proud Drill, Drum & Dance Corp
- Miles (Hartford Marathon)
- Banty (Trinity College)
- +5 more
Organizer
iQuilt Partnership
Food & Drink
Food trucks are usually available on weekends. Hot chocolate is sold at the Bushnell Park Carousel. Visitors are encouraged to visit local restaurants.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, friends, couples
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, welcoming
Energy Level
Low
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- Parking: Free street parking is available on Elm Street (between Trinity Street and Pulaski Circle) or Jewell Street during Winterfest Hartford. On-street parking on all other Hartford streets is free after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
- Accessibility: The event provides a handicapped bathroom with a baby changing station. Inquire at the skate shack for access.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Saturdays in December and January for free skating lessons, as spots may fill up quickly.
- Bring your own lock for the available lockers in the warming shed, as they are not provided.
- Check the front page of the Winterfest website for real-time updates on closings or delayed openings due to weather.
- Consider visiting one of Hartford's local restaurants after skating to complete your festive day out.
- If bringing a large group or school group, contact Jackie@theiquiltplan.org in advance to make arrangements.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free public ice skating
- Free learn-to-skate programs
- Free skate rentals
- Photos with Santa
- Performances by local artists and community groups
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Winterfest Hartford?
Winterfest is a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink located in Bushnell Park, Hartford, CT, offering free skating, skate rentals, and lessons, along with other programming.
How much does it cost to attend Winterfest Hartford?
Admission to Winterfest Hartford is free, thanks to the support of sponsors and donors. A skate waiver form is required to enter the rink area.
What are the operating hours for Winterfest Hartford?
The rink is open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, starting the day after Thanksgiving and running through January, with special hours on certain holidays.
Where can I park near Winterfest Hartford?
Free street parking is available on Elm and Jewell Streets during Winterfest. On other city streets, parking is free after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Is food available at Winterfest?
Food trucks are typically present on weekends, and hot chocolate is sold at the Bushnell Park Carousel. Visitors are encouraged to explore local restaurants.
More Christmas Events Near Hartford
More Christmas Events near Hartford
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.