February 1, 2025
February marks the return of Black History Month. New Haven is unique in this narrative, with its deep connections to the fight for freedom, justice, and equality. From the Amistad story to local trailblazers like William Lanson and the resources at the New Haven Museum, the city offers a meaningful lens through which we can reflect on our city’s Black history. Read more on the blog.
January 28, 2025
The year of the snake is upon us; welcome to 2025. Lunar New Year marks the first new moon of the new year, celebrated primarily in Asian communities across China, South Korea, Vietnam, and beyond. Fireworks displays, street parades, and energetic representations of culture traditionally mark the celebration. This year’s holiday, which falls on Wednesday, January 29th, will usher in the year of the snake. On February 1st, visitors and locals will gather for Connecticut’s most prominent annual Lunar New Year celebration in New Haven. Hosted by Yale-China, an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between the United States and... View Article
January 28, 2025
February’s all about love, and not just the romantic kind. Galentine’s give us a chance to gather the girlies and celebrate platonic love in whatever way we want, and our favorite way to celebrate? Brunch. Here are four recommendations for the perfect Galentine’s Day Brunch. Dine at Atelier Florian for French-inspired bites like Florentine Benedict and Omelette Jardiniere. Grab a reservation at Heirloom for brunch classics from avocado toast to fluffy ricotta pancakes. Tuck into fresh starters like pear and arugula salads and crispy artichokes at Harvest Wine Bar. Imbibe on brunch cocktails like bellinis and mimosas at Olives and... View Article
December 29, 2024
If you’re trading in the raucous champagne-fueled New Year’s Eve celebrations of your youth for a quieter event with your loved ones, please join us on the New Haven Green from 2:00-7:00 PM! “New Year New Haven” is the hottest family-friendly ticket in town (though there’s no ticket). This free event has it all – a Ferris wheel, ice sculptures, and festive programming for the kids. Find out more here →
December 20, 2024
A new year is arriving in New Haven, bringing with it a fresh calendar of Elm City happenings and many more memories created together in downtown. We may not be able to help craft your resolutions, but we can help craft your holiday plans. Whether you’re looking to spend the holiday in sequins and sipping on champagne or splitting a bottle of wine with a loved one, downtown New Haven is the place to be. If your mind is already beyond Christmas Eve and onto the ball drop, here are five places to consider booking for your New Year’s Eve... View Article
November 27, 2024
Downtown captures the magic of the season straight out of a holiday movie. Immerse yourself in a lineup of festive events and experiences that bring the spirit of the holidays to life. First up, on December 5th, the 112th Holiday Tree Lighting will spread cheer through live entertainment, amusement rides, a petting zoo, food trucks, and, of course, your neighbors. The fun begins on the New Haven Green from 5 – 7:30 PM. But that’s not all. On December 7, The Shops at Yale will host the annual Ice Carving Competition and A Capella Concert. See professional ice carvers from New England... View Article
February 28, 2024
Join us downtown on March 10 for the 182nd Greater New Haven St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the largest FREE single-day spectator event in Connecticut. This year’s parade theme is “Céad Míle Fáilte — A Hundred Thousand Welcomes.” The parade kicks off at 1:30 p.m. and will run for approximately three hours, featuring a range of experiences, rain or shine.
February 7, 2024
Scrambling for Valentine’s Day plans? Consider a romantic staycation right here in the Elm City. Romance is alive in downtown, from the lively bars serving up innovative cocktails, to our nationally recognized restaurants saving you tables by candlelight. This year, plan the perfect evening for your valentine and remove the hassle of the commute home. End your evening with a relaxing stay at any of our beloved local hotels, starting with these three hot spots. The Study at Yale Omni New Haven at Yale Hotel Marcel
January 31, 2024
While we’re on the topic of love, let’s talk about what awaits new love in the Elm City. Valentine’s Day is not only reserved for long-term lovers with gold rings. The romance holiday can also be an excellent opportunity to inspire new love, and where better to do that than downtown? For those planning a stellar first date this month, check out our blog to see our top five unique first date ideas, all right here in New Haven. Spoiler: we’re talking saltwater floating or hitting a Bulldogs game with a potential love connection. If your V-Day style is better met... View Article
January 31, 2024
This year, V-Day falls on a Wednesday, but don’t let the rush of a work week overshadow your moment of romance. Plan ahead and spend your evening in downtown. Our advice? Make a reservation, consider dining earlier or later than usual, and spring for the nice bottle. It’s Valentine’s Day, after all. Looking for a place to dine? Check out these 6 romantic spots perfect for any date, and be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date on Valentine’s specials in downtown.