WINTERFAIR ARRIVES AT UNION STATION
JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON, 0VER 120 SMALL BUSINESSES SET TO PARTICIPATE
Photo courtesy of Jane Manby
Hartford's annual holiday market, Winterfair, arrived at Hartford’ historic train station just in time for Small Business Saturday yesterday. The fair is set to highlight unique gifts and products from small businesses throughout Connecticut for 4 weekends running. The event is heldwill be held at Great Hall in Union Station, located at 1 Union Place. This year, Winterfair will host over 120 small businesses during its eight-day event, marking a record high for participation. In support of these local enterprises, The Hartford Insurance Company has taken the initiative to cover vendor fees, allowing businesses the chance to join at no cost. This commitment reinforces the importance of community engagement and celebrates the talent and craftsmanship of local artisans.
Inspired by the rich holiday traditions of Hartford, the Winterfair pop-up market aims to enhance the festive spirit in downtown Hartford. This market will feature a diverse range of gifts, making it an ideal destination for completing your holiday shopping. The event will showcase craftspeople and entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of supporting small and local businesses during the holiday season.
Visitors can look forward to daily offerings from special kiosks, including hot chocolate, coffee, and espresso martinis. Notable vendors participating in the Winterfair include Yellow King Brews with their new food truck, Luke’s Toy Trucks of Danbury, and Fascia’s Chocolate of Waterbury. Attendees can also engage in holiday-themed activities such as a Santa letter and card making station, an interactive prize game, and a gift-wrapping station hosted by The Hartford. Additionally, food trucks will be available outside the station. To add to the festive atmosphere, Santa Claus will make an appearance every Sunday, bringing joy to children and families alike. Join us at Winterfair for a memorable holiday experience in the heart of Hartford.
Doug Holcomb, the new Executive Director of the Greater Hartford Transit District (GHTD), is enthusiastic about the continued growth of a cherished tradition. “GHTD is delighted to once again host Winterfair in the Great Hall of historic Union Station,” Doug remarked. “It is a pleasure to share this wonderful space with all of the Winterfair visitors throughout the holidays.” Winterfair is designed to provide a memorable holiday experience, featuring a total of eight market days that will conclude on December 22. The market will be open from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, starting on Small Business Saturday, which falls on November 30 and December 1. Additional market dates include December 7-8, December 14-15, and December 21-22.
This event is part of the Floor–Plan retail activation initiative, which focuses on cultivating a vibrant and modern retail community in Hartford by promoting and supporting small, local businesses. The initiative represents a collaborative effort among various local partners, aiming to invigorate the city’s retail and entrepreneurial environment. As part of this program, notable components include a technical assistance retail incubator developed in conjunction with reSET Social Enterprise Trust, as well as an incubator shop located within Semilla Cafe + Studio. Additionally, an e-commerce platform has been established in partnership with Cafeteria Media, further expanding the reach of local businesses. The beneficiaries of this effort are primarily small business owners from Hartford, with a particular focus on supporting residents, minority-owned enterprises, and those managed by individuals with low to moderate incomes. In striving to reflect Hartford's rich diversity, the retail community sought through this program aims to empower Black and Hispanic business owners, fostering inclusivity and growth throughout the local economy.
