Celebrate Black History Month at the Hartford Yard Goats: Black-Owned Business Expo
The Hartford Yard Goats are excited to announce a vibrant event taking place at Dunkin’ Park on February 26, 2026. The Black-Owned Business Expo: Black Wall Street Edition – Tribute to Tulsa will be an uplifting evening focused on celebrating and promoting local Black-owned businesses. This annual expo is part of a broader effort to honor Black history and the contributions of Black Americans to commerce and culture.
Event Details and Setting
Set to occur from 6 PM to 8:30 PM in the Liberty Bank YG Club at Dunkin’ Park, this expo is free and open to the public, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and community engagement. The venue offers a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for a celebration of Black entrepreneurship and culture.
A Tribute to Black Wall Street
In recognition of Black History Month, this year’s expo is particularly noteworthy. The Black Wall Street Edition pays homage to Tulsa, Oklahoma, the historical epicenter of Black business achievement. In the early 20th century, Tulsa was home to a thriving Black community and a prosperous economic district known as Black Wall Street. This tribute aims to remind attendees of the possibilities that arise from community cooperation and innovation, creating a space for learning and reflection on a rich legacy of economic empowerment.
Local Business Showcase
Attendees can expect a dynamic pop-up experience featuring over 50 local Black-owned businesses. Participants will showcase a diverse array of offerings, from delicious food and stylish fashion to captivating art and essential services. This diversity not only highlights the entrepreneurial spirit within the community but also underscores the creativity and talent of Black entrepreneurs in Hartford.
Aisha Petteway’s Vision
Aisha Petteway, Executive Director of Community Partnerships for the Yard Goats Foundation, emphasizes the significance of this expo. “This expo is designed to create opportunities for the incredible Black-owned businesses in our community, while also celebrating their achievements and contributions to our city,” she states. Her vision extends beyond mere commerce; it aims to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to follow in the footsteps of those who paved the way before them.
Petteway adds that it is crucial to honor the sacrifices and hard work of ancestors who laid the groundwork for future generations. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that communities can create, elevate, and inspire through resilience and collaboration.
Beyond the Expo: Ongoing Support for Black-Owned Businesses
The Hartford Yard Goats are committed to supporting local entrepreneurs year-round. Each season, they host two Black-Owned Business Expos at Dunkin’ Park, alongside featuring local businesses during every home game as part of the Black-Owned Business Spotlight. This ongoing initiative allows the Yard Goats to foster economic empowerment and promote diversity in business, ensuring that Black-owned enterprises are front and center in the community.
Mark Your Calendar!
Mark your calendar for this can’t-miss event:
When: Thursday, February 26, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Dunkin’ Park, Liberty Bank YG Club (1214 Main St, Hartford)
Admission: Free and open to the public
Join the Hartford Yard Goats for an evening filled with inspiration, culture, and community spirit as we celebrate the power and resilience of Black-owned businesses.
