One of Hartford’s premier cultural events is the Caribbean and Jerk Festival. It has been held every August for the past seven years and features both the upper and lower areas of Mortensen Riverfront Plaza transformed into a Caribbean village. The whole family will enjoy the variety of music and dance performances as well as authentic Caribbean fare offered by more than 25 vendors. There is also a children's activity area, a Caribbean carnival, and salsa merengue lessons.
A game of hoops is always exciting, especially if the team hitting the court is The Connecticut Huskies. Both the men's and women's sports teams of the University of Connecticut are known for some great defense, offense and sharply focused three-pointers. The teams play their home games at the XL Center located downtown. Other games are played at Gampel Pavilion which is located on the university's campus.