Manchester Church of the Nazarene

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.

Recreate a scene right out of a romantic movie when the two of you hit the ice on a date at the International Skating Center of Connecticut. It won't matter if you both have put on a pair if ice skates before or not. What will matter is that you can enjoy the experience hand in hand and have fun sharing time talking, gliding on the ice, and people-watching. Plus, you will each be there to catch each other if you fall! The schedule of hours varies seasonally, so call or check the website before venturing out.

Even if you've read Huckleberry Finn or Tom Sawyer several times, you still may not really know much about the man who created these timeless works of American literature. A visit to Hartford's Mark Twain House & Museum will change all that in a truly dramatic fashion. The historic home has been meticulously preserved and treats visitors to the sight of various personal items that belonged to Twain, who made his home here before and after he met with his staggering success. Among the most striking pieces at this house museum are his writing desk, eyeglasses and other personal curiosities, and various first editions of his most famous books.