Lake George Winter Carnival 2024

An Adirondack tradition for over 60 years, don’t miss this month-long celebration on Lake George.

Fireworks over Lake George

If you're looking for an exciting way to celebrate winter in the Adirondacks, mark your calendar for February 2024. Lake George Village is gearing up to host its legendary Winter Carnival again, offering the whole family a month-long extravaganza of thrilling activities. 

This spectacular event takes place every weekend in February, showcasing the best of the winter season with various fun, family-friendly events and activities. Don't miss the chance to experience the excitement and magic of the Lake George Winter Carnival 2024.

Winter Carnivals: An Adirondack Tradition.

The 1st Annual Lake George Winter Carnival occurred in the winter of 1961. Over a half-century later, it continues to celebrate all the great Adirondack wintertime outdoor activities with four activity-packed weekends during February.

Fun on the ice at Lake George Winter Carnival

Enjoy delicious food tastings during the chowder, chili, BBQ, and chicken wing cook-offs (tickets are required and go on sale November 20). Watch the hilarious and fun outhouse races, a crowd-pleasing favorite, ATV races, polar plunges, fireworks, and more!

Children can participate in various activities, including pony rides and hot chocolate sipping. There are numerous fun events for everyone to enjoy. Check out the current schedule of activities and events below.

Due to Mother Nature, Lake George Winter Carnival events may change. Stay on top of all the events by following their Facebook page for the latest information.

Four weekends of fun in Lake George.

From February 3 to 25, every Saturday and Sunday will be filled with Lake George Winter Carnival activities. Every day of each weekend, visitors can enjoy:

  • Bonfires on the beach to keep everyone warm and toasty.

  • Children's activities from 12 to 3 pm in Shephard Park, including various arts and crafts and games to occupy Lil’ ADKers.

  • Pony rides from 12 pm to 3 pm in Shephard Park (there is a fee).

  • LG Dogs Got Talent contest at 2:30 pm hosted by The Dog Cabin.

  • Polar Plunge at 3 pm in the frigid Adirondack waters of Lake George (if you dare!). Register in advance or at the Souvenir Tent in Shephard Park. And don’t forget your towel!

  • Take a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh ride on Canada Street with A Time to Remember (there is a fee). Call Tina for info at 518.321.5539.

Winter Carnival opening weekend is February 3 and 4, 2024.

In addition to the daily activities above, Lake George Winter Carnival’s opening weekend offers many special events.

Outhouse races are always a popular must see activity at Lake George’s Winter Carnival.

On Saturday, February 3.

  • Opening Ceremonies at noon. There will be a blessing and speeches by local dignitaries. Held on the MacDonald Pier in Shepard Park.

  • Chili cook-off at Shepard Park Amphitheater. Tickets are required and go on sale November 20.

  • Outhouse Races on the lake or other locations depending on the weather. Register to compete for $2,000 in prizes. 

  • The Lake George Winter Carnival Parade. Interested in taking part? Email LGWC411@gmail.com. 

  • Be in Shepard Park at 5:30 pm for free S’mores (while they last). Everyone is welcome. 

  • Hot chocolate bar at 5:30 pm, co-sponsored by Fort William Henry Hotel. Receive a Winter Carnival souvenir mug, then put all your favorite toppings on your hot chocolate. There is an online mug presale option beginning November 20. Only a limited number of mugs will be available for sale on the event day. 

  • Fireworks over Lake George at 7 pm.

On Sunday, February 4

  • Sundae Funday & Karaoke/Open Mic at noon at the Shepard Park Amphitheater. Thanks to Stewart’s Shops, enjoy their delicious ice cream with all your favorite toppings on a Sunday afternoon and best of all, it's free. While there, grab the mic and sing your heart out.

  • Woman's Skillet Toss at 3:30 pm. Sign up at the info booth at Shepard Park Beach by 3:15 pm. All ages are welcome. Sponsored by Vera Bradley at the Lake George Outlets

  • Kegg Toss at 4 pm. Sign up at the info booth near Shepard Park Beach by 3:45 pm.

Full schedules for the other weekends are to come, but here’s a quick preview of key events.

  • February 10 – BBQ Cookoff

  • February 17 – Outhouse Races are back.  Register to compete for $2,000 in prizes. 

  • February 17 – Clam chowder cook-off

  • February 24 – Wings cookoff

The Lake George Winter Carnival is a highly anticipated event during the winter season. Though the weather can impact the activities, the organizers are well-prepared to make changes as necessary. Local businesses and restaurants are excited to cater to carnival-goers, too. Stay on top of all the events by following the Lake George Winter Carnival Facebook page for the latest information.

 

Things to do while in Lake George Village


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