Learn to Skate at Winterfest Hartford
Winterfest Hartford provides free learn-to-skate sessions in Bushnell Park for all ages, including skate rentals.
What to Expect
Free ice skating and lessons in a historic park.
Event Details
Duration
1 hour (for lessons), All day (for open skating)
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
The iQuilt Partnership
Food & Drink
Food trucks usually available on weekends. The Bushnell Park Carousel sells hot chocolate.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, beginners, ice skating enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, active
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: FREE street parking on Elm (Between Trinity and Pulaski Circle) and Jewell Streets during Winterfest Hartford. On other streets in the City…on street parking is free after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
- Accessibility: Handicapped bathroom available. Ask staff at the skate shack for the key.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive by 9:30 am on Saturdays to complete waivers and get skates before the 10 am lesson start time, as no one is permitted entry after 10 am.
- Consider bringing your own lock for the available lockers in the warming shed, as Winterfest is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- Check the Winterfest website's front page for any last-minute updates on closings or delayed openings due to weather.
- While helmets are not provided, they are highly recommended for all skaters, especially for the learn-to-skate sessions.
- Explore local restaurants near Bushnell Park after your skate session to extend your visit to Hartford's vibrant dining scene.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free ice skating lessons on Saturdays
- Free skate rentals
- Photos with Santa on select days
- 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 learn-to-skate programs.
How much does it cost to attend?
Admission to Winterfest Hartford is completely free, thanks to sponsors and donors. A skate waiver is required for entry.
What are the operating hours?
Winterfest is open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, from the day after Thanksgiving through January, with special hours on major holidays.
Are skate rentals included?
Yes, free skate rentals are provided for all skaters, with sizes ranging from children's size 9 to adult size 15.
Where can I park?
Free street parking is available on Elm Street (between Trinity and Pulaski Circle) and Jewell Street during Winterfest. On other streets, parking is free after 6 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
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.