All photos courtesy of the Lake George Winter Carnival.
Winter in the southern Adirondacks can feel long and relentless, with cold temperatures, icy weather conditions, and seasonal attractions closed down until the spring. But each year, the Lake George Winter Carnival brings some excitement to an otherwise seemingly bleak winter season. This month-long family-friendly festival is a celebration of all things winter and takes place every weekend during the month of February. Here, we’ll share some details about the upcoming 2025 Lake George Winter Carnival.
The Lake George Winter Carnival: When and Where
The carnival takes place annually, during every weekend in February. This year’s festival dates are:
February 1-2, 2025
February 8-9, 2025
February 15-16, 2025
February 22-23, 2025
The Winter Carnival is held right in the Lake George Village, with events taking place at various locations throughout.
Key Lake George Winter Carnival Attractions and Activities
There are dozens of activities and happenings that take place throughout the carnival, so it’s a good idea to check the event website while planning your visit if there are specific events you’d like to attend.
Signature Events & Attractions
You’ll find impressive ice carvings at the festival, weather permitting, as well as bars made completely of ice, serving up popular favorites and signature drinks. Stop by to enjoy a beverage!- Polar Plunge
Hundreds of people each year participate in the polar plunge, diving into frigid Lake George. It’s a chilly time to take a swim, but it’s a beloved part of this annual event for those crazy enough to do it. - Fireworks
Enjoy stunning fireworks displays every Saturday evening during the carnival. - Hot Chocolate Bar
A favorite among families, this hot chocolate bar serves up delicious hot cocoa with a buffet of toppings. Limited souvenir mugs are available. A portion of the proceeds from this event go to a local charity of the week.
Competitions
- Outhouse Races
This is one of the most popular events at the LGWC. Teams race creatively decorated outhouses on the ice. - Cook Off
The LGWC cook off competitions are another fan favorite! Local restaurants showcase their specialty chili, BBQ, chowder and wings in this people’s-choice competition. Be sure to get your tickets for this event ahead of time; it often sells out. - ATV Poker Run
Win prizes and score giveaways as you ride to various checkpoints throughout Lake George. - Glacier Golf Tournament
Play a 6-hole golf course set up on the ice along Shepard Park (or in Battlefield Park if there’s no ice). - Duck Hunt
Follow clues to hunt for ducks in Warren County. There’s a chance you could win a $500 grand prize!
Arts & Crafts
- Paint and Sip
Each Sunday, enjoy a guided painting class to create a unique work of art. Each painting is specially created for the Lake George Winter Carnival, and a portion of all proceeds will benefit the local Caldwell Library.
Family Friendly Fun
- Children’s Activities
There are many children’s activities offered during the carnival, including games, ice skating on the lake, pony rides, make your own snow tie-dyed shirt, a parade, and more!
While some of these activities and events are weather- and ice-dependent, many of them will take place in some form even if the lake is not frozen. If temperatures are mild, don’t fret! There will still be plenty to enjoy at the Lake George Winter Carnival!
The Logistics: Parking and Lodging During the Lake George Winter Carnival
There are a number of hotels in the Lake George area that host guests during the carnival, but we recommend finding a place outside the hustle and bustle of the festival. Many of our rentals are close to Lake George Village, yet removed enough that you can enjoy some peace and quiet while the carnival festivities are underway.
If you’re driving into the village for the carnival, be sure you have an idea of where you’ll park. There is metered parking throughout the village, though side-street meters typically aren’t operational during the winter months. You’ll also find a couple of public parking lots, including the Beach Road lot, where you can pay for parking at a kiosk.
Tips for Enjoying the Lake George Winter Carnival
Hoping to get the most out of your time at the LGWC? Here are some of our top recommendations.
- Dress in Layers: Be sure to wear layers so you can adjust as needed based on how warm or cool it is. Some events are indoors, and others will require you to be outside for extended periods of time. Be sure to pack gloves, hats, coats, and appropriate footwear. The carnival is a lot less fun if you’re freezing the whole time!
- Buy Tickets for Popular Events Ahead: Some events, like the Cook Off and the Hot Chocolate Bar, sell out ahead of time. Make sure you secure tickets to the attractions you want to attend ahead of time. You can register ahead for specific events and activities on the LGWC website.
- Secure Lodging Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to book your accommodations for the Lake George Winter Carnival. Find a place to stay sooner rather than later so you know you’ll have a home base to return to while you’re in town enjoying the festivities. We hope you’ll choose from one of our luxury vacation rentals!
- Explore Lake George: Be sure to check out the many shops, local eateries, and other area attractions while you’re in town. There’s a lot to love about the Lake George region even in the winter, and the LGWC weekends are a great time to discover it all.
Explore Lake George This Winter During the LGWC!
There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Lake George Winter Carnival. You’re sure to make some unforgettable memories at this unique event in the Adirondacks. We hope to see you there!
Need help finding a place to stay for the LGWC? We’d be happy to assist! Give us a call at 518-685-6569 or contact us online and we’d be happy to make a personalized recommendation for your group.
Interested in learning more about the Lake George Region ahead of your visit? Check out our blog for tons of helpful information about local attractions, visiting the area, and more!
