If there’s one month that fully represents the scope of Hartford’s arts and cultural scene it’s October. From creepy ghost tours that span the 19th century to live theater by local playwrights, Hartford is staying true to its promise of having it all. So in-between apple picking and carving pumpkins, visit a haunted house (or two or three) and brush up on the latest art trends in the area. Here’s our roundup of must-see events this month all supported by the Arts Council and made possible by your contributions. Visit our events calendar for more to do in Greater Hartford.
Ghost Tours – Ongoing in October
It wouldn’t be fall in New England without a ghost tour excursion and lucky for us Connecticut has several. We recommend Spirits at Stowe at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours at the Mark Twain House, the Walking Tours in the Old Burying Ground at the Wethersfield Historical Society, and the Hallowed History Lantern Tour at the Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Harvest the Arts – October 9-11
Southington Community Cultural Arts presents their annual fall festival featuring murals, live painting demonstrations, music, dance, and tons of food.
Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon – October 10
On your mark, get set – #RUNHartford! Runners, walkers, and spectators are all invited for the annual Hartford Marathon.
Night Fall – October 10
Celebrate the changing season with life-sized puppets by local artist Anne Cubberly and live music and dance performances in Keney Park. Learn more.
‘Wonder Room’ Opening Reception – October 22
The Arts Council’s upcoming exhibit in our 100 Pearl Street Gallery space will feature the surrealist work of local artists (and husband and wife) Daniel Long and Rebecca Clark. Both artists will be present at the opening reception, which will include hors d’oeuvres and refreshments themed for the season.
THIRD – Ongoing in October
The latest play at TheaterWorks explores the “danger of becoming the very thing you fear most” through the tale of a teacher who accuses a student of plagiarism.
Warhol & Mapplethorpe: Guise & Dolls – October 17 through January 24, 2016
An exhibition The Wadsworth Atheneum featuring the two iconic artists’ portraits, self-portraits, and portraits of each other.
Back to the Eighties Masquerade Dance Party! – October 24
Party like it’s 1889 at the Mark Twain House & Museum’s “Masquerade Ball” set into a 1980’s Dance Party. LGA members get the MTH member price of $20.
Hooker Day Parade – October 24
Mardi Gras meets Halloween at this annual costume parade that honors all things Hartford – especially Hartford founder, Thomas Hooker.
MAMMA MIA! – October 30 through November 1
You may have heard the news that “Mamma Mia!” is closing on Broadway (and if not, well, we hate to be the bearer of such bad news), but rest assured it will making a brief – and we’re talking very brief – visit to The Bushnell around Halloween. Get your tickets before they sell out.
