From fireworks to concerts to costumes, thousands are expected to pour in for some summer fun in Hartford this weekend.
Over at the Xfinity Theatre Dave Matthews Band fans spent part of their Friday night enjoying some sun, food, and drinks. Dave Matthews will play there again on Saturday night at 7 p.m.
"It's a great time. The crowd is good. Everybody seems to be behaving themselves which isn't always the case with Dave Matthews Band," said Jennifer Strong from Thompson.
To keep it that way Hartford police are out in force, keeping traffic running smoothly and patrolling the parking lots. A big focus for them was underage drinking.
"They really have controlled it. I saw a lot of people getting arrested for drugs and underage drinking and stuff like that. I think they're doing a great job," said Dennis Dobronte from Watertown.
"If you're not 21, just don't drink. Have a good time anyway. It's Dave Matthews!" said Catie Karlskind from East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
The excitement continues on Saturday with ConnectiCon at the Convention Center. Organizers say it brings in more than 10,000 comic book enthusiasts, many dressed like their favorite characters.
Riverfest will be unfolding on Saturday at the same time as the second DMB concert, with festivities starting at 4 p.m. on Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. Fireworks are scheduled for this evening.
I-84 and I-91 in the Hartford area are expected to see heavy traffic, and during the fireworks show the right lane on the eastbound side of Founders Bridge will be closed.
Last year Riverfest had to be rescheduled due to the rising river, which led to a scaled back event, but that won't be the case this year.
"As a vendor we're happy to be there," said Conor Geary, manager of Ted's Montana Grill. "It'll be the first time we're doing it, and we're excited to have a good turnout this year with good weather."
The packed Hartford weekend means a busy but good time to be at the capital city.
"It's amazing," said Strong. "It's good for Hartford. We need this kind of energy."
