Scroll down for information on planning an event at the Carousel or in the Pump House.
Bushnell Park is the ideal backdrop for a special occasion. It is the perfect venue for a variety of events ranging from concerts, road races, and rallies, to weddings, parades and family reunions. The combination of a beautiful, open, and public space in the heart of the city is irresistible. Whether you are hosting an event, or planning a photo shoot, Bushnell Park provides a lovely backdrop.
The park is owned and operated by the City of Hartford. A special permit is required for any event held on city property, city buildings and/or private property that requires specific city or state permits or authorizations, as well as the use of city services and assets. The special permit is required to ensure the health, safety and welfare of event participants, residents and visitors, and to minimize the financial and legal risks to the event organizers and the city. Special events include parades, sport events, concerts, theater productions, celebrations, outings, weddings, ceremonies and fairs, among others.
Click here for the City Events page and the Special Permit application.
Applications for a Special Permit shall be filed not less than 60 days before the date of the event.
If you have further questions, you may contact Nayra Martinez with the City of Hartford – 860-757-9081 or [email protected].
Celebrate your special moments at the Carousel
A party in the Carousel Pavilion is a great way to celebrate a birthday, shower, company celebration, or other social event. Rent a Birthday Station next to the Carousel, the whole Carousel Pavilion, the Dollard Pavilion, or the whole building! Rental information is available here.
Our newly renovated Pump House is avaiable for rent
Imagine hosting your next celebration, meeting, or other special event in a unique and beautiful setting, surrounded by the lush greenery of America’s first publicly funded park and a historic, functioning pump house.
This Hartford landmark is fashioned of brick, brownstone, and timber, and was designed by H. Hilliard Smith to resemble a Cotswold Cottage with Tudor influences.
Your rental includes the main room on the south side of the building, the adjacent exterior courtyard, and tables and chairs suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Click here for more information.