Hartford Boat Show celebrates 50 years
Leading the prominent 2019 Northeast winter boat show schedule, the Hartford Boat Show (HBS50) will open at the new Earth Expo Center at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, Thursday, Jan. 17 and run through Sunday, Jan. 20, showcasing every aspect of boating under the sun on Connecticut’s lakes, rivers and the sound, just in time for boaters to start thinking about the upcoming season.
Produced by the Connecticut Marine Trades Association (CMTA) and powered by Evinrude/BRP, the event is celebrating its 50th anniversary and will feature over 125 exhibitors covering all available space at the new Earth Expo Center at Mohegan Sun; in the center’s ballroom, breakout rooms, and casino; with over 400 boats and water craft being featured. Over 35 dealers, representing at least 95 different brands of boats, motors and trailers are participating, and over 23 new exhibitors have joined the show this year. Additional sponsors include Helly Hanson, Renewal by Andersen, and the Connecticut Port Authority.
Opening Ceremonies are scheduled for 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 17, just prior to HBS50 opening at noon. Show sponsors, state and local dignitaries, members of Mohegan Sun Leadership and others are expected to participate. The Ceremony will commemorate the 50th anniversary as well as celebrate the new partnership of CMTA’s Boat Show and Mohegan Sun.
According to the CMTA, early January is the most advantageous time for placing new boat and equipment orders. “Since this is the first boat show in 2019 on the east coast, it’s really the best timing for purchasing, with many dealers offering season and show promotions, and delivery timing to meet the opening of the boating season in the state,” said Kathleen Burns, Executive Director, CMTA. “With the reduction of state sales tax on boats, motors and trailers that went into effect last year, the show’s timing, and our new location, coupled with the sheer size of the show, we are anticipating robust attendance,” she continued.
The Hartford Boat Show exhibitor list reflects every element of recreational boating in the state, for those enjoying Connecticut’s waterways from the sound to the lake and rivers, as well as experienced navigators, to new boaters. HBS50 visitors can expect to see boats, jet skis, personal watercraft, paddle sports, kayaks, marinas, motors, slip rentals, servicing, fishing gear, educational programs and materials, insurance, trailers, electronics, sanitation, air conditioning, attire, nautical home décor, decking, dock building, winter storage, financing, an shore side activities such as destinations and attractions
With expanded hours this year, HBS50 will be open Thursday, January 17 from noon to 9 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 18 from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Saturday, Jan. 19 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“HBS50 is indoors ‘under the sun,’ so everyone will be comfortable taking advantage of all the show has to offer,” Burns said.
Tickets for the Hartford Boat Show may be purchased at www.hartfordboatshow.com.
