If we learned one thing during the pandemic, it’s that we, as humans, can enjoy spending time outside in cold weather—even when living in New England. The Pratt Street Winter Village was born out of a desire to stimulate retail businesses in Downtown Hartford, support local musicians and artists, and provide a new opportunity for local artisan vendors to sell their wares. Holiday decor lined the street, and a pop-up beer garden from a soon-to-be-open Pratt Street brewery was the perfect festive addition to the event. Over the course of four weekends, the Winter Village hosted 55 retail vendors and 16 live performances featuring 20 performers and visual artists. The event was attended by thousands of shoppers and visitors, all of who left with renewed, festive holiday spirit!