Pre-Thanksgiving Breakfast, Hartford Line Adds Holiday Trains, & Winterfest 2025

November 24, 2025


 

The community is invited to the 5th Annual Pre-Thanksgiving Community Breakfast at the State Capitol. Angel of Edgewood, Senator Murphy, and Senator Blumenthal will host the event on Wednesday, November 26, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Free transportation is available, if needed (see more information, including the free charter bus schedule, below).

Free charter bus service will be available to and from the event in Hartford, and I have included the full schedule below for your convenience.

Click the video below to learn more about the event from Angel of Edgewood's Founding Executive Director, Jendayi Scott-Miller.
 

More Hartford Line Trains for Thanksgiving Travel

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is adding additional trains to the Hartford Line (HL) in anticipation of increased ridership over the Thanksgiving holiday. Additionally, the New Haven Line and Shore Line East will operate with modified schedules over the holiday.

The Hartford Line will operate a Saturday schedule on Thanksgiving Day and a normal weekday schedule on Friday, November 28. There will be additional CTrail HL trains to accommodate the anticipated increased passenger volume. That includes:

  • Four northbound and four southbound trains on Tuesday, November 25, and Wednesday, November 26.
  • Three northbound and three southbound trains on Sunday, November 30.

CTDOT staff will be at Hartford Line Stations, including New Haven Union Station and Hartford Union Station, on Tuesday, November 25, Wednesday, November 26, and Sunday, November 30, to assist passengers traveling for the holiday.

To see the entire schedule, please visit HartfordLine.com.
 

Winterfest 2025 Starts Friday

Winterfest Hartford begins on Friday, November 28, with free ice skating at Bushnell Park. The rink will be open every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. except on Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.

In addition to free ice skating, Winterfest offers learn-to-skate programs, skate rentals, performances by local artists, and photos with Santa.

The third annual tree lighting ceremony in Bushnell Park takes place on Sunday, November 30. Gather at 4:30 p.m. for caroling and merriment; the tree will be lit at 5 p.m. Be sure to skate for free before or after the ceremony

This annual holiday celebration runs through January and offers an opportunity for everyone to enjoy Hartford’s numerous arts, cultural, and dining experiences, along with wholesome outdoor family-friendly activities.

You can find more information on Winterfest 2025 HERE.