Events in Hartford today

Celebrate the restoration of the Sam Colt Memorial with a family-friendly craft event at Colt Park. Families receive materials for a hands-on activity and create their own relief sculpture, either inspired by details from the monument or based on an original design. The National Park Service will also lead a guided tour of Coltsville.

Explore Cedar Hill’s inventive spirit on a guided walk that highlights trailblazing minds connected to the cemetery. Hear how ingenuity shaped everyday life through stories of Gallaudet’s airplane, Colt’s revolver, Gray’s pay telephone, and other breakthroughs. Foundation Director Beverly Lucas leads this new tour, sharing insights along the paths of this historic landscape. Admission is $10, with no charge for Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation members. Advance reservations are encouraged and can be completed online. The walk sets off from the flagpole at the end of the entrance drive. Please note that pets are not permitted, except for service animals.

A Magic: The Gathering prerelease for The Hobbit takes place at Unsettled Geeks. Each participant receives one The Hobbit Prerelease Pack and uses it to build a 40-card deck, with basic lands provided. The event runs in Swiss rounds based on attendance and welcomes both new and experienced players. Prize support provides one pack for each win. Entry is 40 dollars per player.

Curious about the story or value behind your antiques? Bring furniture, jewelry, artwork, and other treasures to Antiq's for complimentary appraisals by experienced professionals. Expect a quick review, clear estimates, and practical direction on caring for your pieces and on what to keep, sell, or pass along. Whether you are handling an estate, clearing space, or planning a move, all types and sizes are welcome and you will leave with helpful insight into the history and worth of your items.

At Antiq's LLC, bring antiques, collectibles, vintage pieces, or family heirlooms for a complimentary, on-the-spot appraisal. The team will examine each item, explain what it is, share any known background and origin, and estimate its current value for retail and auction settings as well as for insurance replacement. There is no charge and no obligation. Past finds have included rare coins, signed artwork, mid-century furniture, vintage toys, and jewelry that turned out to be surprisingly valuable. If transporting a large or delicate piece is difficult, photos are welcome. Whether an item proves to be a hidden gem or simply carries a memorable story, participants leave with clear, professional information.

Now in its 64th year, the West Indian celebration at Bushnell Park features a parade, a marketplace of vendors, and a concert with no admission charge. Entry is free, and attendees can buy food and other items on site.

Players compete in a constructed YuGiOh tournament with a $10 entry fee. Each entrant receives 2 OTS packs at sign-in, and a box is added to the prize pool for every 8 players.

Enjoy an evening centered on polo.

This intergenerational, conversation-based tour explores the lives of Black abolitionist Frederick Douglass and white anti-slavery author Harriet Beecher Stowe, tracing their journeys from childhood to literary prominence. The experience highlights the roles of love, family, and education, including how Douglass taught himself to read and write as a child while keeping it hidden and how his future wife, Anna Murray, helped him on his path to freedom. It also examines how Stowe’s anti-slavery novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin was influenced by Douglass and other Black activists of the 19th century. Participants can handle historical objects and documents that bring the past into focus and take part in thoughtful conversation about how people of all ages can help create change. Designed for visitors ages 6 and older.

Jeff Przech performs at Red Brewster Brewery in Enfield, Connecticut. Music journalist Eric R. Danton, with credits at The Wall Street Journal, Rolling Stone, Paste, and Pitchfork, has commended Przech for continual growth and a refreshingly direct delivery. This performance centers on a musician recognized for evolving craft and clear, engaging music.

Comedy Therapy with Splou is an in-person stand-up and storytelling experience that turns real-life struggles into punchlines. Expect raw, relatable humor and an emotional release, all focused on turning pain into something memorable and moving. Doors open at 5:30 PM, and the show starts at 6:00 PM. This event is for ages 18+.

Head to Piggy's Cafe for an in-person 30+ speed dating night with a fun twist called Pop the Balloon. The event includes check-in, name tags, a match sheet, and food and drinks, plus ice breaker questions to get conversations going. There is music during the event and an opportunity to sign up for speed dating, Pop the Balloon, or both. If you’re not participating, you’re welcome to come enjoy the vibe. Please note that portions of the evening may be recorded for social media.

Paula Poundstone appears at Infinity Music Hall in Hartford. This event is open to all ages.

Returning for its second year, the G.O.A.T. Card Show is hosted by the Hartford Yard Goats, the Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, at Dunkin’ Park. In partnership with THE 413 CARD SHOW and presented by Fox Sports 97-9, with support from Nash In The Ville Honkytonk, this gathering welcomes collectors, hobbyists, and fans of all ages. Explore more than 100 tables of sports cards, memorabilia, and collectibles spanning every sport and interest, set throughout the full 360-degree concourse of Dunkin’ Park, a venue recognized as Best Ballpark in America four times. Enjoy convenient parking and open concessions, and take in the full ballpark atmosphere while you shop, trade, and discover new finds. Admission is $10, and children 10 and under are free. Vendors should note that any offers to purchase tables outside official channels are not valid, and only official avenues should be used for vendor information and registration.

Summer of Soul offers a free outdoor yoga experience on Pratt Street in Hartford. Afterglow Yoga Studios partners with Pratt Street to present an all-levels class set right on the street, welcoming both newcomers and experienced practitioners. The flow is designed to suit any mood and stretch, bringing the easy energy of summer to an open-air practice. Attendance is free with RSVP. Please bring a yoga mat and water.

The Pratt Street Sunday Market brings a monthly open-air marketplace to Pratt Street in downtown Hartford, set along a brick-lined block reserved for pedestrians. Visitors can browse fresh produce, pantry staples, vinyl records, and home goods while exploring a rotating mix of local farms, specialty food makers, and artisans. Each market day begins with a free yoga session led by After Glow Yoga. The experience also features live music, workshops, and interactive activities designed for attendees of all ages, including kids and families. Presented in partnership with the Hartford Culinary Collaborative, the market is currently welcoming vendors offering locally produced items such as fruits and vegetables, eggs, jams, pickles, cheeses and other dairy products, meats, dips and spreads, pasta and sauces, snacks, nuts, artisan goods, and pet treats. Vendor pricing includes a complimentary first market day, a full-season option at $200, or a $50 per-day drop-in rate. Applications are accepted through the organizer’s vendor submission form.

This magical weekend features opportunities to explore history, attend a panel discussion, and enjoy dancing. HCH will perform multiple times throughout the event, offering several chances to experience the show.

Globe Hollow hosts the annual K-9 Kerplunk Doggy Dunk in partnership with the Manchester Youth Commission. Dogs must be registered and licensed, and in-person registration is available before entering the facility. Admission is $5 per dog, with a limit of two dogs per handler.

Presented by the Imperial Sovereign Court of All Connecticut, this free-admission evening at Chez Est features a lively variety show with members of ISCofAllCT, the Imperial Court System, and entertainers from the Connecticut community, along with refreshing drinks. Co-hosts include Imperial Crown Princess to Reign 27, Anne Tikk, and Liege Dayanara Love Dégagé. Net proceeds support Reign 27 beneficiaries, including the ISCofAllCT Scholarship Fund, CT Breast Health Initiative, Hartford Gay Men’s Chorus, and Trans Voice 365, a program at the Metropolitan Community Church of Hartford. Donations are welcomed via Venmo or PayPal at @CTImperialCourt.

Outlaws are bringing a country rock and southern rock show to Infinity Music Hall in Hartford. The concert is scheduled for 7:00 PM, with tickets available through the listed partners.

Weekly karaoke is back at The Main Pub in Manchester. Step up to the microphone, sing your favorite tunes, and turn the evening into a true highlight.

The KNOX Farmers Market highlights fresh produce grown in Hartford and serves as a link between the Urban Farming Program and the local community. Urban Farmers share the results of their work as they develop their businesses, offering direct access to locally grown food and a way to support neighborhood growers.

Monday Movie Nights at Parkville Market turns the patio into an open air cinema for a relaxed outing suited for all ages. Screenings have featured titles like Goat, Onward, KPop Demon Hunters, and Inside Out 2. Every Monday, children can eat free all day with the purchase of an adult entrée from the same vendor. Presented with support from CREC, the Capitol Region Education Council.

Jesse and Tom host a community walk at the MHS track. All ages and fitness levels are welcome. Set your own pace and choose the distance that suits you, whether it is a single lap or many. Stay for a brief visit or for a longer stretch, whatever fits your day. The focus is to get outside with friends, neighbors, and family in a welcoming, family-friendly setting and enjoy some fresh air together. There are no sales involved. The guiding principle is to be good neighbors, offer encouragement, and support one another in building healthier habits. This group typically meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the MHF athletic complex when the high school is not using the facility.

Gather with fellow songwriters in the gallery at WORK SPACE in Manchester for a collaborative, in person session focused on sharing works in progress. You can bring a finished piece for feedback, a set of chords, a tune, words that still need music, a concept or spark... anything you are exploring. Works at any stage are welcome and the atmosphere is open to every style. Creators of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to participate.

RiverBarre offers a free barre workout on the Hartford HealthCare Community Stage at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, taught by instructors from Hartford Sweat in a scenic riverside setting. Barre blends ballet inspired movement, yoga alignment, and Pilates core work to tone the entire body. The class focuses on low impact bodyweight exercises that may include resistance bands, along with yoga style stretching and mindful breathing to build strength and support overall well being. Participants should bring a yoga mat and water, and wear sneakers. Free on street parking is available on both sides of the river. Convenient paid parking is offered at the Connecticut Convention Center Garage, with the fifth floor and the north side exit providing the most direct path to Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. The class is free to attend, and donations are welcome to help keep these programs going. Contributions can be made at the class or via Venmo.

Players compete in a constructed Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament with a $10 entry fee. Each entrant receives two OTS packs upon entry, then plays three rounds of Swiss. Prizes are awarded as one pack per win, distributed at the end of the tournament.

Enjoy a community coffee hour on the plaza, featuring complimentary coffee, casual games, talks from guest speakers, music, and other activities. In the event of inclement weather, the gathering will be canceled.

Homeschool Tuesdays at Capital Ice Cream offers a relaxed meetup for homeschool families to connect, play, and build community. The gathering includes toy and activity stations, story time, and both independent and group play, along with plenty of opportunities to meet other local families. Guests can pack a lunch and bring the kids for unstructured fun where imagination and friendships support learning beyond the desk. Drop in briefly or stay for the full session, whatever fits the day.

This Take Off Tuesday Club happy hour at The Flying Monkey Grill Bar features extended happy hour pricing with a VIP Card. Attendees can bring friends, and there is an option to become a member of the club. The theme embraces letting the inner monkey take flight.

Rec on the Run brings free arts and crafts to neighborhood spots with a mobile van and a fresh themed project each week. The weekly route includes Westside Oval at Mahoney Rec on Tuesdays, Eastside Farmers Market on Wednesdays, Northwest Park on Thursdays, and Charter Oak Parl on Fridays. Find the van at these rotating locations and enjoy hands-on art activities close to home.

This weekly triathlon series spans ten Tuesday evenings and offers two race options for a range of abilities. The sprint course features a quarter-mile lake swim, a five-mile mountain bike ride, and a 5K trail run. The tiny tri option includes an eighth-mile lake swim, a three-mile ride on mountain bikes, and a one-mile trail run. Participants can purchase a series pass to compete every week or register on a weekly basis. Weekly sign-ups open the Thursday before each race and close on race day, and onsite registration is also available. Per-race pricing is 25 dollars for members and 35 dollars for nonmembers for the sprint, and 20 dollars for members and 30 dollars for nonmembers for the tiny tri.

Morgan Giosa & The Blues Machine appears at the West End Farmer's Market Music Series in Clemens Place Park with a set that blends classic blues, jam-oriented rock, and original tunes. The lineup features Morgan Giosa alongside slide guitarist Mark Nomad, bassist Tom "The Pocket" Petri, and drummer Alex Giosa.

At Audacity British Style Pub, this hands-on class invites participants to design a custom sea glass window. It is a freestyle craft session, so you can create any design you like, with optional stencils available for inspiration and guidance. All supplies are provided, including a prepped window frame, sea shells, sand, colored sea glass, and other decorative materials, and you are welcome to bring personal items to incorporate. The session begins with an overview of the process and techniques, followed by assistance as needed. Because resin requires curing time, finished pieces will be ready for pickup the next day. Materials and frame colors or styles may vary depending on availability, and as with all handmade resin work, small bubbles, slight cloudiness, resin drips, or shifting materials may occur. When registering for more than one person, set the top number to 1, then select the number of frames below. By attending, participants agree to hold harmless The Art Lab & Gallery for any injuries that may occur during classes held on or off premises.

JCSNE hosts its monthly gathering at Olympia Diner, where members often arrive early to share a meal and conversation before the meeting begins. The session is a welcoming introduction for those curious about JCSNE and follows a clear agenda that starts with a call to order, opportunities to add topics, and reports from the secretary, treasurer, membership, and vice president. Updates also include “The Spotted Cat,” events from the VP, the chief judge, concours activities, advertising, the website, and slalom. The meeting concludes with unfinished business, AGM items, open discussion, and adjournment.

At Dunkin' Park, the Moon Mammoths face the Yard Goats in a special matchup. Originating on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, the Moon Mammoths make an appearance at the ballpark. The game also includes a celebration recognizing Reading Books in Summer kids, supported by Eversource. Baseball Bingo, presented by Hartford Provision Company, offers opportunities to win prizes. The game is presented by Call Before You Dig.

Catch the Hartford Yard Goats take on the Erie SeaWolves at the ballpark. The game is scheduled to go on rain or shine, and any cancellations are at the discretion of the Yard Goats. Tickets are $55 per registration.

Wake Up Wednesday is a weekly grassroots outreach in Hartford led by the Greater Hartford NAACP, centered on community, care, and connection. It began as a simple food giveaway and has expanded into a broad effort that now reaches hundreds of neighbors with immediate assistance. Each week, individuals and families can pick up free groceries, enjoy prepared meals that may range from cookouts to grinders, and find clothing for all ages in every season. Household items and basic hygiene products are also available, and there is no paperwork or screening required to receive help. Community partners come on site so services are available where people already are. Support includes job and reentry assistance, legal guidance from Greater Hartford Legal Aid, harm reduction through CTHRA with Narcan kits, clean syringes, and overdose prevention tools, along with housing and recovery resources for those seeking stability or treatment. Organizers highlight that meaningful change grows from everyday places and face-to-face conversations. For many participants, this weekly gathering offers dignity, practical support, and a reminder that neighbors look out for one another. The initiative can be sustained through donations, volunteers, and spreading the word, with opportunities for local businesses, community members, and those who have received help and wish to give back.

Enjoy an outdoor neighborhood market at Chrysalis Center's Homestead Farmers' Market in Hartford. Browse Connecticut-grown produce from Urban Roots and other local farmers, with a selection of fruits and vegetables that reflects the community’s wide range of tastes. La Cocina baked goods are available when offered. The market welcomes everyone while supplies last and accepts SNAP/EBT, WIC/FMNP, and Urban Alliance Coupons.

The 12th annual back to school block party takes place at CREC’s central headquarters in Hartford and brings the Greater Hartford community together to support children and families as the new school year approaches. CREC, the city of Hartford, and more than 30 community organizations share important information about schools and local services with over 3,000 attendees. Over 1,200 backpacks stocked with school supplies will be available at no cost for children ages 3 to 17. All guests must complete the check-in process, and pre-registration helps make that quicker. Backpacks are distributed only after check-in is completed and when children are present.

Eastside Farmers Market features a thoughtfully curated mix of vendors representing diverse food businesses and artisans. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, maple syrup, mead and wine, coffee beans and loose teas, baked goods, and vegan options. Explore CT food trucks and tents, enjoy live music, and look forward to changing weekly themes. The market accepts SNAP/EBT and matches benefits up to $30, providing an additional $30 to spend on SNAP eligible items when that amount is used with an EBT card. Children receive a $3 Power of Produce voucher at each market to use on fresh produce.

Rec on the Run brings a mobile art experience to neighborhood spots with free arts and crafts offered from its traveling van. This stop takes place at the Eastside Farmers Market and features a themed craft for the week. The route also includes Westside Oval at Mahoney Rec, Northwest Park, and Charter Oak Park, with each visit highlighting a new theme and location.

Enjoy free Wednesday summer yoga at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, guided by Hartford Sweat instructors. The class follows a Vinyasa flow that links breath with movement, set to music, and welcomes all levels. Expect a smooth, calming sequence that builds strength, supports focus, and helps you unwind. A shaded riverside setting creates a scenic spot for a one-hour practice. Please bring water and a yoga mat. Free on-street parking is available on both sides of the river, and paid parking is offered in the Connecticut Convention Center Garage; park on the fifth floor and use the north-side exit for direct access to the Convention Center, the Connecticut Science Center, and Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. A $5 suggested donation helps keep these classes free and can be made at the class, online, or via Venmo.

This constructed-format Yu-Gi-Oh tournament features three rounds of Swiss. The entry fee is $10 and includes two OTS packs with registration. At the end of the event, one pack is awarded for each match win.

DJ Bingo at Bear's Hartford pairs the fun of bingo with music clips in place of numbers. Participation is free. A screen displays each song’s title and artist, so it is not a test of music trivia knowledge. The event features four rounds with varied patterns and categories, and winners select the category for the following round. Prizes are awarded in every round to all winners.

The Yard Goats face the Tigers affiliate, highlighted by an adult camo jersey giveaway for the first 1,000 fans, presented by the CT Army National Guard. The evening also recognizes participants in the Reading Books in Summer program, with thanks to Eversource.

Enjoy a fun karaoke night at Chez Est, an LGBTQ+ bar, cabaret, and entertainment venue. Step up to the microphone and sing your favorite songs, and know that admission is free. For more information, call 860-525-3243.

Registration is open for the Fourth Annual Heroes Golf Classic, a premier Connecticut golf event supporting veterans and first responders. Taking place at Tunxis Country Club, this popular tournament is expected to sell out quickly, so early registration is recommended.

Part of the Children’s Performance Series, Drumming About You features Bob Bloom leading an interactive music session where kids and other participants make music together. Young attendees are encouraged to sing along to familiar songs and try out a range of instruments. After the performance, children can visit the playground and feed the birds at the Aviary. Kona Ice will be on site with a sweet treat. The program is held at the cabin reception tent. A $7 vehicle entry fee applies.

Discover Hartford’s Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch in Bushnell Park through free guided tours. Volunteer guides share the history of its design and construction, explain the symbolism in its carvings and statuary, and note its dedication to the 4,000 local residents who served in the Civil War. Tours are brief and require no advance registration. If you are short on time, you can skip the tour and climb 96 steps to the top for a view of the park and the State Capitol. Weather-related cancellations are posted online. Street parking is available around the park, and payment at a kiosk is required.

Designed for adults, this co-ed group uses a cognitive behavioral approach to deepen understanding of ADHD while strengthening executive functioning. Through guided conversation and practical skill practice, participants work on organization, planning, time management, emotional regulation, and other everyday strategies. The environment is supportive and focused on tools that can be put to use in daily life. If you are not already a CHR client, the Triage Center can be reached at 1.877.884.3571. CHR accepts most insurance, including Aetna, Anthem, and Husky.

Rec on the Run rolls into neighborhood spots with a mobile art van offering free arts and crafts. A rotating schedule highlights where the van will be and what themed project is planned each week. Look for stops at places such as Westside Oval at Mahoney Rec, Eastside Farmers Market, Northwest Park, and Charter Oak Parl. Bring your creativity and make something fun.

KNOX’s annual garden party returns to Bushnell Park with a festive celebration at the Pump House and Carousel, marking six decades of growth. Guests can look forward to seasonal bites, live music, and time on the dance floor. Proceeds support KNOX programs including community gardens, urban gardening, volunteer efforts, tree planting, and city planters, all working toward a greener Hartford and a better quality of life for residents.

Northwest Park hosts family-focused activities that range from hands-on arts and crafts to a family talent show. The programming centers on creative fun and shared time together.

The 18-piece Al Fenton Big Band, led by Kathy Neri, brings a high-energy jazz performance to Center Memorial Park, capping the Beller’s Music Summer Concert season. Expect bright brass, standout solos, and rhythms that keep the music moving. Settle into the shade and enjoy the show with a lawn chair and a picnic, or pick up takeout from nearby Downtown restaurants. If weather intervenes, the concert will move to the Army & Navy Club. Sponsored by Beller’s Music and Downtown Arts and Culture.

Set dinner to the sound of live soul jazz performed by Michael Childs & Co. The band provides a musical backdrop while you dine.

Get moving with a free weekly Zumba class on the Hartford HealthCare Community Stage at lower Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. This one-hour, high-energy session is taught by instructors from Hartford Sweat and keeps the music and motion going from warmup to cooldown. Free on-street parking is available on both sides of the river, and paid parking is offered in the Connecticut Convention Center Garage. If using the garage, park on the fifth floor and exit on the north side for direct access to the Convention Center, the Connecticut Science Center, and Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. A $5 suggested donation helps sustain free classes like this. Contributions can be made at the class, through the organizer’s website, or via Venmo.

The Kris Allen Quintet brings live jazz to a historic garden setting as part of the Sunset Sounds Concert Series. Pack a picnic and a lawn chair to relax among the greenery, then enhance the outing with complimentary first-floor tours of the house museum, a self-guided audio tour of the garden, and exhibitions by featured artists. The concert is planned for the terrace at the Amos Bull House behind the Butler-McCook garden. If the weather does not cooperate, it will shift indoors to the Amos Bull Community Room. Alto saxophonist Kris Allen leads a stellar lineup with Josh Evans on trumpet, Zaccai Curtis at the piano, Nat Reeves on bass, and Anwar Marshall on drums. The repertoire spotlights music by Gigi Gryce, who spent a short time in Hartford, and salutes pillars of hard bop and bebop including Charlie Parker, Bud Powell, and Jackie McLean. Allen serves as the Lyell B. Clay Artist in Residence in Jazz and a lecturer in music at Williams, where he directs the jazz ensemble program. A Hartford area native and a protégé of Jackie McLean, he has shaped a distinctive voice as a saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and recording artist, appearing on dozens of recordings. His latest leader release, June, is his third acclaimed album on the Truth Revolution Recording Collective. Support for this program is provided by the Richard P. Garmany Fund at the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, the Evelyn W. Preston Memorial Trust Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, and the Ensworth Charitable Foundation, Bank of America. Registration is appreciated, and walk-up attendees are welcome. Metered street parking is typically available nearby.

This concert features OF VIRTUE and SAVAGE HANDS on The Art of Love & Power Tour, with additional sets from KINGDOM COLLAPSE and SORRY X. It is a general admission show, priced at $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the show.

Get ready for a night of heavy music with Of Virtue, Savage Hands, Kingdom Collapse, Sorry X, and Gina Fritz. The show is at The Webster Theater - Underground and starts in the evening.

Celebrate Italian heritage at the ballpark with themed festivities, specialty food options, and playful promotions that might have you cheering Salute. The Yard Goats host the Tigers affiliate for a game filled with Italian-inspired touches and plenty of ballpark energy.