A true architectural gem in downtown Bridgeport, the Arcade Mall is a stunning historic restoration of one of the nation’s first enclosed shopping malls. The breathtaking atrium has a dramatic Victorian stepped glass roof. The property was built in 1840 and underwent several interior and exterior renovations during the 1920s, 1950s and 1980s. It holds historic significance locally and nationally as one of the few remaining arcades from its time period. The renovated downtown landmark is activated with art pop-ups, studios and shops.
Bridgeport Art Trail 2026 Schedule
Thursday, November 5
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Kindred Thoughts Bookstore Open
Proudly located downtown in the historic Arcade Mall in Bridgeport, CT, Kindred Thoughts Bookstore is an independent bookstore that is 100% Black-owned and 50% woman owned, and 50% veteran-owned by Karin Smith and Derek Tompkins. We are Bridgeport's only bookstore with an emphasis on African American literature and cultural events, while also supporting the needs and interests across our entire diverse community.
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM | The dertbag atelier Open
The dertbag atelier is a retail space and studio space for the brand dertbag. Philip Post is a self-taught artist from Norwalk, CT. Philip opened his space at age 18. He sells his dertbag brand and his father’s brand, Frank Foster Post, here. He also works on his personal artwork and music at the atelier.
Friday, November 6
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Kindred Thoughts Bookstore Open
Proudly located downtown in the historic Arcade Mall in Bridgeport, CT, Kindred Thoughts Bookstore is an independent bookstore that is 100% Black-owned and 50% woman owned, and 50% veteran-owned by Karin Smith and Derek Tompkins. We are Bridgeport's only bookstore with an emphasis on African American literature and cultural events, while also supporting the needs and interests across our entire diverse community.
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM | The dertbag atelier Open
The dertbag atelier is a retail space and studio space for the brand dertbag. Philip Post is a self-taught artist from Norwalk, CT. Philip opened his space at age 18. He sells his dertbag brand and his father’s brand, Frank Foster Post, here. He also works on his personal artwork and music at the atelier.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Hi-fi at the Arcade
Back by popular demand, our pop-up vinyl listening room in the Historic Arcade Mall in downtown Bridgeport, CT is BACC. We’ll be showcasing DJ's along with a few surprises. See BACC.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Opening Reception for Art-Senal of Democracy - Reflection of the Times
A pop-up exhibit inspired by Nina Simone’s call for artists to reflect the times. The show brings together creative voices responding to the world as it is: complex, shifting, and deeply human. Through art as witness, resistance, reflection and testimonial, this exhibition asks: What does democracy look and feel like right now? See BACC.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Opening Reception for “New Directions” Adger Cowans Solo Show
A celebration of the vision and legacy of legendary Bridgeport Artist, Adger Cowans. This solo exhibition honors new directions of a remarkable body of work shaped by decades of creativity, culture, and lived experience paying tribute to an artist whose impact is deeply woven into the fabric of Bridgeport.
Saturday, November 7
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Kindred Thoughts Bookstore Open
Proudly located downtown in the historic Arcade Mall in Bridgeport, CT, Kindred Thoughts Bookstore is an independent bookstore that is 100% Black-owned and 50% woman owned, and 50% veteran-owned by Karin Smith and Derek Tompkins. We are Bridgeport's only bookstore with an emphasis on African American literature and cultural events, while also supporting the needs and interests across our entire diverse community.
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM | dertbag Atelier Open
The dertbag atelier is a retail space and studio space for the brand dertbag. Philip Post is a self-taught artist from Norwalk, CT.
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | On display: “Art-senal of Democracy” and “New Directions”
View two exhibits, one reflecting on the current state of democracy and one retrospective on the life and work of beloved long-time Bridgeport artist Adger Cowans.
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Hi-fi at the Arcade
Back by popular demand, our pop-up vinyl listening room in the Historic Arcade Mall in downtown Bridgeport, CT is BACC. We’ll be showcasing DJ's along with a few surprises. See BACC.
7:15 PM - 8:30 PM | Reflections of the Times Panel Discussion
Join us for an inspiring conversation with changemakers who are breaking barriers and paving new paths. Hear their stories, lessons, and visions for the future—and be part of a powerful exchange that celebrates courage, innovation, and community impact.
Sunday, November 8
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM | On display: “Art-senal of Democracy” and “New Directions”
View two exhibits, one reflecting on the current state of democracy and one retrospective on the life and work of beloved long-time Bridgeport artist Adger Cowans.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Artist Talk with Adger Cowans
Join legendary Bridgeport artist Adger Cowans for an intimate conversation exploring his life, work, and creative journey. Hear directly from the artist as he shares the wisdom, stories, and perspectives shaped by decades of creating, observing, and inspiring.