Free Thanksgiving Meal & Support Small Businesses

November 24, 2025


I would like to wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving. I’m grateful for the strength, resilience, and community spirit that make Hartford and West Hartford such special places to live and work. It is an honor and privilege to serve as your state representative. Have a wonderful and restful holiday! 

You have an opportunity to join the community for a free Thanksgiving themed meal in Hartford. Please keep scrolling for details including free bus service.

Hartford will really be in the holiday spirit when Winterfest kicks off later this week! I'll provide more information below, including the schedule for free ice skating.

You will find the following sections in today's email: 

  • Join Me for a Free Thanksgiving Meal
  • Small Business Saturday - Shop Small
  • Free Ice Skating at Winterfest Hartford
  • Hartford Toy Donation Drive
 

Join Me for a Free Thanksgiving Meal

I hope you can join me for a free holiday meal and a plate to go at the fifth annual Pre-Thanksgiving Community Breakfast. Angel of Edgewood is sponsoring the event at the State Capitol on Wednesday, November 26, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

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.

We will be joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, along with other elected officials and community leaders who will be on hand to connect, answer questions, and share in the spirit of the season.

I hope to see you there!
 

Small Business Saturday - Shop Small
Small Business Saturday, November 29 this year, shines a spotlight on locally owned businesses. It encourages folks to shop small and support their communities during the busy holiday shopping season.

By participating, you can find unique, personalized gifts while contributing to the local economy. Small Business Saturday fosters connection, strengthening neighborhoods and ensuring that local businesses continue to thrive.

Thank you for supporting our locally owned businesses. I wish you and your family a happy holiday season.
Click here to find local small businesses
 

Free Ice Skating at Winterfest Hartford

Speaking of the holiday season, 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. – 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 before the tree is lit at 5 p.m. Be sure to skate for free before or after the ceremony!

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

Hartford Toy Donation Drive

If you are able, I encourage you to consider donating new or unwrapped gifts for children in need this holiday season. The Hartford Chamber of Commerce is hosting a community toy distribution on Saturday, December 6, from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Connecticut Convention Center.

You can drop off donations at the locations listed below. Organizers will collect toys through Monday, December 1.