Here is your curated Hartford event calendar for December. What makes the list? Events that I would either attend or recommend to a good friend. That’s it.

Check with each venue in advance for details about vaccination and mask requirements.

ADD TO CALENDAR

  • ICE SKATING: It’s free and open daily (11 AM – 8 PM) in Bushnell Park; schedule is modified on a few holidays. Free skate rentals, free time on the ice, free skating lessons. With any luck, the cops won’t be idling their cruisers nearby, contributing to air pollution and creating bad vibes.
  • TREES, WREATHS, CRAFTS: Local artists will have crafts for sale at Hog River Brewing Co. (1429 Park Street) 12-5 PM on Saturday, December 4, 2021.
  • CAROUSEL RIDES: Free on Sundays in December, 12-4 PM.
  •  HIP HOP FOR THE HOMELESS: Bring donations to an evening of live musical  performances at Four Ropes Boxing (394 Ledyard Street) at 8 PM on Thursday, December 9, 2021
  • IMPROV CHRISTMAS CAROL: I don’t particularly like A Christmas Carol, but I’ve loved Sea Tea Improv’s take on it in past years, laughing until I was literally crying. Who doesn’t need a laugh right now? Tickets are $18. Various dates from December 9 through December 19. Two of these are family shows, so pay attention what you’re signing on for (if you’re like me and would be disappointed by the hilarity being dialed down on behalf of delicate viewers).
  • KRAMPUS: If you prefer weird over heartwarming, the Curioporium (1429 Park Street) presents that option. On various dates through December 19, 2021, the Havisham Society presents an “immersive experience that will transport you to his home in the Black Forests of Germany where you will be his guest for the evening. Gather around his fire to hear about his life and the true story behind his legend. Filled with humor, adventure, misadventure, and a little darkness; he weaves a story befitting the holiday season. Krampus has brought some of his dark yuletide friends to The Vault as well. Explore six rooms where legend, lore and holiday cheer collide as you hear about holiday traditions past, forgotten and some better left alone.” This is not an escape room. This is not for young children. Tickets begin at $25. Check out their social media to get a better glimpse into what kind of creepy shit goes down on Park Street.
  • CHRISTMAS ON THE ROCKS: It was virtual last year, but for 2021 it is back live at Theaterworks from December 2 through December 23. Tickets start at $50.
  • LIVE RADIO PLAY: Through December 26, you can watch a live radio play rendition of It’s a Wonderful Life at Hartford Stage, and if you are a card carrying member of the Hartford Public Library, you can do this at no cost.

CULTURAL ASSETS

For ongoing free education, entertainment, and resources — like 24/7 food pantries and libraries — check out this map. Zoom in and click on the icons for more information. Looked last month? There have been additions since then.