First Night Hartford returns with a new, fresh, and warm button design from Connecticut artist Sophie Groenstein!

Hartford, CT - 11/19/2026 - First Night Hartford is proud to announce the release of its official 2026 festival buttons, designed by Connecticut–based muralist and portrait artist Sophie Groenstein. Known for her vibrant, emotionally resonant work, Sophie brings her signature blend of individuality, community warmth, and expressive color to this year’s collectible design.

Sophie’s art centers on celebrating the uniqueness of every individual and the emotional connections that bring people together. Her portraits—recognized for their layered color, expressive faces, and distinctly feminine lens—invite viewers to see both themselves and one another with more empathy and joy.

See more of Sophie’s work below. From portraits to murals, Sophie’s art explores warm, vibrant tones mixed with a deep sense human emotion.

A deeply community-rooted artist, Sophie collaborates with neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, and public art programs across Connecticut to create murals that uplift local stories. Each piece is shaped by the personalities and histories of the people she paints, resulting in vibrant public artworks that carry a sense of identity, pride, and belonging.

Being a CT native, working with First Night Hartford was a special moment for Sophia, as she says she’s “Honored to collaborate on the 2026 First Night Hartford Button. Growing up, I’d visit Bushnell Park just to admire the carousel horses, so getting to create artwork for the city that sparked my love for art feels incredibly full circle.”

This year’s button design reflects Sophie’s mission to leave places warmer than she found them, making it a fitting emblem for a festival built on community, creativity, and connection.

First Night Hartford returns for it’s 37th year, you can purchase your button online at ezEvent.com, and at participating locations throughout the city. Purchasing a First Night Hartford button grants one exclusive access to all participating indoor venues that will be programmed with DJ’s, family friendly arts and craft activities, a silent disco, and so much more!