Another Winter—Another Carnival…
Winter in the Lake George Area is a time of rest and quiet beauty. Beachfronts are still and covered with snow, weekday traffic thins, and familiar local spots feel cozy and welcoming. But as February arrives and the Adirondack chill settles in, weekend energy returns in a big way—it’s winter carnival season, when long-standing traditions, community spirit, and festive adventure brighten even the coldest days.
Winter carnivals in the Lake George Area welcome merrymaking of all kinds. Volunteers work year-round to plan events, gather sponsors, and hope for perfect ice conditions. Loyal visitors plan full weekends around the festivities regardless of weather, and locals look forward to the mid-winter bustle that signals summer isn’t far away. Winter carnival season rekindles warmth and excitement throughout the region.
Lake George Winter Carnival
When temperatures first dip below freezing, the countdown to ice begins. Now in its 64th year, the Lake George Winter Carnival is a February-long celebration woven into everyday life in the Village. Dazzling lights and cheerful decorations line the streets, ice bars appear at nearby restaurants, and Shepard Park becomes the heart of winter fun.
The Lake George Winter Carnival isn’t just an event—it’s a tradition that transforms the entire community. With a schedule packed with weekend activities, many visitors arrive early to enjoy breakfast or coffee in town before heading to the opening ceremony at Shepard Park. This first-weekend gathering officially kicks off the month of festivities and sets the tone for the weeks ahead.
Pictured (Top to Bottom): People on Frozen Lake George, Lake George Winter Carnival Ice Sculpture; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Highlights & Signature Events
Whether you're planning a full weekend or just stopping in for the afternoon, here’s what to expect:
Chili Cook-Off
The first steaming bowls of chili are served early Saturday afternoon, with local restaurants competing for bragging rights. Carnival-goers taste, judge, and vote for their favorites—and the competition never disappoints.
Outhouse Races
A beloved Lake George tradition since 1983, the outhouse races are equal parts creative engineering and pure fun. Teams build wildly imaginative outhouses and race them on the frozen lake or nearby shore. Spectators bundle up, cheer loudly, and enjoy one of the carnival’s most iconic events.
Hot Chocolate Bar & Fireworks
Warm up at the Hot Chocolate Bar before settling in for the evening fireworks show lighting up the winter sky. Fireworks typically occur after dusk on Saturdays, but always check the schedule for exact times.
Family Activities
The Lake George Winter Carnival has always been a family celebration. Kids can enjoy arts & crafts, scavenger hunts, snowman-building contests, and other rotating activities that change each weekend.
More Weekend Fun
Throughout February, you’ll also find:
- Polar Plunges
- ATV & motorcycle races
- The six-hole “Glacier” Golf Tournament
- Ice sculptures, demonstrations & warm-up spots
- Food vendors and local dining within walking distance
Every weekend offers something different—and worth attending.
Pictured (Top to Bottom): Lake George Winter Carnival Polar Plunge, Car Races at Lake George Winter Carnival; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
What If the Lake Doesn’t Freeze?
Sometimes Lake George doesn’t cooperate. Fortunately, organizers have contingency plans for most ice-dependent events. The carnival has been held every year since 1961, and a little warm weather has never stopped the festivities.
For current dates, parking info, and the full weekend schedule, visit our Lake George Winter Carnival event page.
Brant Lake Winter Carnival
In a quieter corner of the Lake George Area, the small hamlet of Brant Lake comes alive each February for the Brant Lake Winter Carnival. Held on frozen Brant Lake outside Jimbo’s Club at the Point, this one-day carnival delivers classic Adirondack winter fun with a strong sense of tradition.
Crowds gather around bonfires, warming their hands and sharing stories. Volunteers from the Tri-Lakes Business Alliance bring the event to life each year, ensuring favorite contests and activities return again and again.
Pictured (Top to Bottom): Brant Lake Winter Carnival Fry Pan Toss, Brant Lake Winter Carnival Outhouse Races; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Signature Events & Activities
Outhouse Races
Like the Lake George carnival, Brant Lake’s outhouse races are a cherished highlight—but with a personality all their own.
Fry Pan Toss
A signature event unique to Brant Lake. Contestants hurl cast-iron fry pans across the ice in a good-natured competition that always draws a crowd.
Broomball, Curling & Human Foosball
Friendly competitions continue throughout the day, offering multiple ways to play or cheer from the sidelines.
Classic Winter Fun
- All-day sledding
- Ice skating
- Lakeside refreshments
- Warm-up space inside Jimbo’s Club
As night falls, fireworks over the frozen lake wrap up the festivities—a perfect ending to a lively winter tradition.
See schedule details and updates on the Brant Lake Winter Carnival event page.
Planning Your Winter Carnival Visit
To make the most of your carnival weekend, here are helpful planning tips based on what visitors most often ask.
When Do the Carnivals Take Place?
Both carnivals occur in February.
- The Lake George Winter Carnival typically spans all four weekends.
- The Brant Lake Winter Carnival is traditionally a one-day event.
Always refer to the event pages for the current year’s schedule.
Do I Need Tickets?
Most activities are free, though some contests or food items may have a small fee.
Is There Food?
Yes!
Expect:
- Food vendors
- Chili samples
- Hot chocolate
- Nearby restaurants offering lunch, dinner, and seasonal specials
Where Do I Park?
Lake George: Several public lots and on-street parking options are available in the Village. Arriving early is recommended, especially on opening weekend and fireworks nights.
Brant Lake: Parking is available near Jimbo’s Club at the Point; signage and volunteers help direct traffic.
What Should I Wear?
Dress warmly and in layers. Bring:
- Winter boots with good traction
- Hats, gloves, scarves
- Hand warmers
- Waterproof outer layers
- Sunglasses (for bright snow glare)
What Should I Bring?
Optional but helpful:
- A small backpack
- Cash for food or contests
- A portable seat or folding chair
- Camera or phone for photos
- Extra socks
Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely. Both carnivals offer family events, games, and activities.
What Else Can I Do in the Lake George Area in Winter?
If you’re planning a long weekend, consider exploring:
- Winter activities like snowshoeing, skiing, tubing, and ice skating
- Ice bars throughout Lake George Village
- Dining and shopping
- Scenic drives or walks along the lakeshore
The Return of Spring
When spring arrives, ski trails soften, ice bars melt, and frozen lakes open into shimmering blue water once more. Waterfront restaurants fill with diners, marinas launch their fleets, and beaches come alive. But as summer winds down and winter begins again, you’ll know exactly what to look forward to—another season of winter carnivals in the Lake George Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets for the Lake George Winter Carnival?
Most events are free and do not require tickets. Some activities or food items may have a small fee, but general admission to the carnival itself is free.
What happens if the lake doesn’t freeze?
The Lake George Winter Carnival has contingency plans for most ice-dependent activities. Events may shift locations, but the carnival is held every year regardless of weather.
Is there food available at the carnivals?
Yes—you’ll find food vendors, seasonal treats like chili and hot cocoa, and plenty of nearby restaurants offering warm meals and specials throughout February.
Is parking available?
Parking is available in public lots and on-street spaces throughout Lake George Village. Arrive early, especially on fireworks nights. Brant Lake offers parking near Jimbo’s Club at the Point with signage and volunteers to help direct visitors.
Are the carnivals family-friendly?
Absolutely. Both carnivals include activities for kids, such as crafts, games, sledding, and contests.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers. Winter boots with traction, hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof outerwear are all recommended. Hand warmers and extra socks can make a big difference on cold days.
What should I bring?
Visitors often bring a small backpack, cash, a thermos, a folding chair, and their phone or camera. Warm gear is essential, especially for lakefront events.
Do I need to register to participate in events?
Most spectator activities do not require registration, but certain contests (like the Polar Plunge or Glacier Golf) may request sign-ups. Check the event pages for details.
What else is there to do in Lake George in winter?
The area offers snowshoeing, skiing, tubing, ice skating, scenic winter walks, shopping, dining, and seasonal highlights like ice bars and winter festivals. Explore our Winter Activities page for more ideas.
Interested in more winter sunshine & snowy fun?
Explore our Winter Lake Geore Area Activities page for more ideas to round out your trip.
*Originally published on October 20, 2023.
