What’s a cultural district?
A specific, walkable area of a town that has a number of cultural facilities, activities and/or assets – both for profit and nonprofit. It’s a center of cultural assets and activities, and a place for residents and visitors to enjoy the places that make a community special.

What’s a cultural asset?
Something that has value because of its contribution to a community's creativity, knowledge, traditions, culture, meaning, and vitality.

Why form a cultural district?
•  Increase coordination of efforts, resources, and assets
• Market arts and culture attractions to visitors
• Promote and encourage artists, entrepreneurs and creative businesses
• Promote tourism and increase visitation
• Strengthen distinctive character of communities
• Create a plan to drive economic growth and expand tax base
• Support Sustainable CT certification https://sustainablect.org/actions-certifications/
• Highlight culture and history of your community

Could Stonington have more than one cultural district?
Yes. We are considering Stonington Borough, the Velvet Mill, Downtown Mystic, and the Old Mistick Village / Aquarium / Seaport area.

What does it take to form a cultural district?
This is a true grassroots effort.  Forming a cultural district requires vision and dedicated volunteers who have a direct stake in its success. Join us in developing a vision for Stonington’s creative communities, and stay tuned for a new meeting announcement in September. For more information, please contact The Cultural Coalition.