Attend the Lake George Winter Carnival for Cookoffs, Contests, Car Races & More
Weekends in February are Winter Carnival Time!
Lake George Village offers a month-long celebration of winter during this annual family-friendly festival. The Lake George Winter Carnival takes place each weekend throughout February.
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Relish the warmth of tasty samples during the chowder, chili, BBQ, and chicken wing cook-offs. Witness the always hilarious and fun outhouse races - a crowd pleasing favorite - as well as ATV races, polar plunges, fireworks, and more!
Kids can participate in children's activities, go for a pony ride, and sip hot chocolate. And that's just a sample; there's so much fun for everyone. View the complete list of events and activities below.
What Happens If There's No Ice?
Although Lake George is usually frozen solid by February, there are some years when mild temperatures cause the ice to be unsafe for the Winter Carnival's normal activities. If ice-dependent events need to be canceled or relocated, that information will be announced on the Winter Carnival's Facebook page or website.
There are plenty of activities that the ice does not effect! You can still enjoy:
- Fireworks
- Cookoffs
- ATV Poker Run
- Keg Toss
- Skillet Toss
- Hot Chocolate Bar
- S'mores
- Make Your Own Tie Dye Shirts
- Cupcake Decorating
- And more!
Where Should I Stay?
Planning a trip to Lake George during one of the four Winter Carnival weekends? There are plenty of places where you can stay overnight this time of year. From family-friendly hotels to cozy cabins, book your room and prepare for carnival fun!
Find Lake George lodging options that are open in winter »
What Else Should I Know Before I Go?
Pre-sale tickets are available and recommended for each Cook Off. There are also hot chocolate mugs available for purchase online, and you can register online ahead of time for the Polar Plunges & Outhouse Races.
Check out more insider tips to the Lake George Winter Carnival »
The Lake George Winter Carnival Schedule
Stay tuned for the 2025 schedule!
Coming in from out of town? See which lodging venues are open in winter »
Watch our Winter Carnival video below!
Video Transcript
The village of Lake George offers a month long celebration of winter during the Lake George Winter Carnival, an annual family friendly event. The Winter Carnival is held each weekend throughout February. The same lake enjoyed for its many summer activities and views becomes the playground for a whole new season.
With the lake safely frozen over, people flock to the Winter Carnival to participate and watch a number of activities held on the ice and around the lake. The crisp winter air provides a lively sensation adding to the excitement. Snowmobiles and ATVs become the norm for traversing the lake. Many traditional activities are held both days every weekend, but each weekend includes new events and thrills. Many of the village restaurants and pubs are open providing a great view as well as a place to warm up.
The Lake George Winter Carnival, another part of your lakegeorge.com experience.
