Good morning, Hartford.

Hartford’s Winterfest returns to Bushnell Park for its 15th year on Black Friday—offering free holiday family fun with ice skating, skate rentals and lessons that run daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through mid-January, though rain may affect rink access.

Bradley International Airport expects about 95,000 departures this Thanksgiving holiday weekend — security lines have grown heavy and AAA advises travelers to arrive early as the busy period runs until Dec.

1.

Colonial records show that Connecticut held a Thanksgiving celebration in 1639 with a government proclamation after the Pequot War (an early act of giving thanks) that set a historic precedent.

Later celebrations were adjusted due to shortages and harsh weather, including a 1705 postponement in Colchester and changes during wartime.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place today in Manhattan’s Upper West Side as it marks its 99th edition with floats, balloons and marching bands along a 2.5-mile route.

Connecticut viewers can watch on NBC Connecticut or WNBC from 8:30 a.m. — those preferring an in-person view may choose Metro-North or Amtrak to reach spots along Central Park West and 6th Avenue — ensuring a festive start to the holiday.

Hartford Mayor Arulampalam paused state-funded renovations for six public schools in September—halting projects at Moylan Elementary, Parkville Community, McDonough Middle, S.A.N.D, Maria C.

Colon Sanchez Elementary, and Batchelder schools—and said the move will allow a five-year plan to be developed that relieves future taxpayer costs and improves enrollment. The decision surprised school officials who had approved the projects and already awarded construction contracts.

State data show that eight Connecticut school districts suspended more than 1,000 students during the 2024-25 school year, including Waterbury, which suspended 2,587 students out of over 18,000 enrolled.

The report also revealed wide differences in suspension rates—some districts suspended fewer than 10 students while disparities were noted for Black, Latino and disabled students.

About 36,000 Connecticut residents are at risk of losing SNAP benefits between Dec.

1 and Mar. 31 due to new work requirements under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—raising fears of food insecurity and health risks. Advocates have urged state leaders to create a state-funded food assistance program—while officials review options for a $500 million emergency fund.

UConn head football coach Jim Mora accepted a head coaching position at Colorado State — leaving the Huskies after four seasons in which they won 27 games and became bowl eligible three times.

UConn Athletic Director Daivd Benedict named Offensive Coordinator Gordon Sammis interim head coach — with a national search for Mora’s replacement set to begin immediately.

UConn Huskies football head coach Jim Mora left the team to accept a head coaching job at Colorado State, and officials said offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis will serve as interim coach as UConn begins a national search for a new leader—Mora led the Huskies to their highest win total since 2010.

Magic of Lights

11:59 PM – 1:29 AM — Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field — Ticket information available — Experience a dazzling display of lights in a festive atmosphere.

Tribute to Enanitos Verdes

9:00 p.m. — Nicole's Restaurant — Tickets available — Celebrate classic rock with the iconic sounds of Enanitos Verdes.

Nutmeg's Nutcracker

12:30-2:30 p.m. — The Bushnell Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the magical holiday classic as the Nutmeg Ballet brings Clara's enchanting journey to life.

PMP Certification Bootcamp

9 AM – 5 PM — 100 Pearl Street Gallery Parking — Contact hours included — Fast-track your project management career with expert-led PMP training.

CTData Conference 2025

9 AM – 4 PM — Hartford Marriott Downtown — Registration required — Engage with leaders and learn data practices for community impact.

Jukebox Radio Live Performance

8 PM – 12 AM — Elicit Brewing Co — Cover charge may apply — Enjoy a night of non-stop hits from Post Malone to Aerosmith with a full band.

Slick Rick Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Webster — Ticket prices vary — Experience the storytelling genius of hip-hop’s most sampled artist live in Hartford.

Self-Care Sound Bath Meditation

6-7 p.m. — Whiton Branch Library — Free entry — Experience the healing power of sound with bowls and drums in a relaxing environment.

Date Night Downtown: Magic and Humor

6:15-7:45 p.m. — WORK_SPACE — $25 per person, $20 early bird — Experience a night of magic and humor with Kody Hildebrand in a festive setting.

2000's Night

9 PM – 1 AM — The Webster — Tickets from $57 — Celebrate the nostalgia of the 2000s with live performances at Webster Theater.