Good morning, Hartford.

Puerto Rican business owner Evelyn Ruiz returned to Hartford to launch Hasta Luego Friend, a vintage trailer coffee shop serving café con leche + local culture.

She also started Tia’s Roommate, a queer collective hosting perreo parties and community events to strengthen local bonds.

A survey of 1,163 caregivers showed many families in Connecticut struggled with basic needs (52% reported poor mental health and 26% said their children were affected).

The report calls for policy changes like a state child tax credit and expanded childcare options.

Today, the Greater Hartford St. Patrick's Day Parade will step off near the State Capitol as community members enjoy lively Irish traditions amid possible showers – organizers say the festive event will boost local spirit.

Some customers for The Capitol Groove festival at Bushnell Park received $300 refunds on Friday morning after losing their tickets, leaving them confused as the lineup remains unannounced ahead of the June 27 — 28 event.

Organizers have not yet explained the reimbursements.

The DMV warns residents that texts claiming an unpaid traffic citation may lead to vehicle registration suspension + additional fees are scams.

East Haven Police advise not clicking any links or sharing personal details and to report such texts to the FTC.

A local nonprofit in Hartford has launched a program to help residents overcome barriers to homeownership amid a challenging housing market.

The effort provides support and resources to guide prospective buyers through high costs and complex financing options.

Conard High School boys hockey team beat Enfield 4 to 3 on March 5 in a close game that secured their spot in the CCC South championship — held Friday at the International Skating Center of Connecticut.

UConn men remain tied with St. John's for the Big East lead after splitting the series—winning in Hartford and losing in New York—and will face Marquette Saturday at 12:30 p.m. to close the regular season.

UConn women's basketball team prepared for quarterfinal action in the Big East Tournament Friday, Mar.

6. The team aimed to advance further and build on its season performance as local fans followed the contest closely.

Hartford Wolf Pack vs. Cleveland Monsters

7-8 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — Check the local AHL action as the Wolf Pack host the Monsters in a thrilling hockey showdown.

90s Con 2026

4-8 p.m. — Connecticut Convention Center — $176.10 — Celebrate the iconic decade of the 90s with a weekend of nostalgia in Hartford.

90's Con CT - Saturday

10 AM – 2 PM — Connecticut Convention Center — VIP ticket options available — Celebrate the beloved 90s with exclusive experiences and premium seating.

90's Con CT - Sunday

10 AM - 2 PM — Connecticut Convention Center — VIP ticket packages available — Celebrate the iconic 90s with exclusive experiences and meet your favorite stars.

St. Patrick's Day Knitted Banner Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Manchester Public Library — Free entry — Create a festive yarn banner for St. Patrick's Day under the guidance of local artisan Mary Curley.

Turas - Contemporary Irish Music

6-9 p.m. — New Park Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a captivating evening of live Irish music with the band Turas.

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Theater of the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience a radiant ballet reimagining of Sleeping Beauty with stunning glow-in-the-dark costumes.

Shamrock Run & Walk

8:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. — Chippens Hill Middle School, Bristol, CT — Registration fee applies — Celebrate Irish spirit with a community 5 & 2-mile road race and fitness walk for all ages.

Annual Johnny's Jog for Charity 5K

9 a.m. — Blue Back Square — Registration required — Participate in a community run and support a good cause with raffle prizes.

Christian Music Concert Series

7-11 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting sounds at a night of inspiring Christian music.