Riverfest 2011

Riverfest — which has not actually been held on July 4th for years — drew lots of people into downtown Hartford on Saturday evening. The tradition has become to seek out a new spot for viewing each year. In the past we’ve tried the overlook at Elizabeth Park, the Riverfront Plaza, East Hartford’s Great River Park, and this rooftop, just to name a few. For those with a low tolerance for crowds, I recommend the latter.

Rivaling the fireworks display was the post-show entertainment: watching traffic jams, a safe distance from impatient motorists.

Even with the exodus following the fireworks display, restaurants were doing well hours after the show ended. One establishment that can usually neatly fit all customers into the bar was forced to reopen its formal dining area.

The fireworks did not end when Riverfest did. Smaller, unsanctioned displays — which have been happening since early June — could be seen across Hartford and in East Hartford. The amount of money dropped on these private displays could be taken as evidence that the recession is really over, people have grown reckless with their limited funds, or explosives are more affordable than basic necessities.

See more photos from Riverfest 2011