HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - Winterfest is returning to Bushnell Park for its 15th year, bringing free holiday family fun to downtown Hartford starting Black Friday.

The beloved winter tradition offers ice skating, skate rentals, lessons and more at no cost through mid-January, thanks to about $300,000 in donations.

Amir Johnson, director of external relations and programs for IQuilt Partnership, said the event offers activities beyond the ice rink.

“It’s not just about ice skating,” Johnson said. “We’re saying, ‘Hey, you can ice skate, come take pictures with Santa.’ We have karaoke night. We have mascot day.”

The free activities have created memorable moments for families over the years.

“Everything is free. We tell people to come, bring your families. People have gotten engaged on the

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