All photos courtesy of The Lake George Winter Carnival.
The Lake George Winter Carnival is held in Lake George Village every Saturday and Sunday in February, and features a hot chocolate toppings bar, polar plunge, several cook-off contests, outhouse races, a glacier golf tournament, ATV poker run, and other games and events.
Lake George Winter Carnival Events
The first annual Lake George Winter Carnival was held in 1961. Now, more than 60 years later, the celebration of wintertime activities in the Adirondacks continues over four weekends in February.
Outhouse Races
Whether you enter a team or just come to watch, the Outhouse Races are a load of fun. Teams of two pushers, two pullers and one rider build a to-spec outhouse and push-pull it a distance of 50 yards over the finish line for $2000 in cash prizes. The event is held on Lake George, or Battlefield Park, depending on ice conditions. The cost to enter the race is typically $50 for unsponsored racing teams, $150 for business-sponsored teams, and always free to watch.
Duck Scavenger Hunt
Participants in the annual Duck Hunt are given clues to “hunt” for ducks in Warren County, NY with the chance to win a $500 Grand Prize. Entry costs approximately $25 and tickets must be purchased online. Registration takes place at Surfside on the Lake the morning of the event, followed by an awards ceremony that evening. Participants receive complimentary coffee, cocoa and pastries and can add a social hour and appetizer buffet for an additional $10.
Cook-Off Contests
Each week the Lake George Winter Carnival features a different cook-off contest, including chili, BBQ, chowder and wings. Ticket holders sample the competition and then cast their ballots to determine the winners. Tickets generally cost $11 and presale tickets are strongly encouraged, as these popular events frequently sell out in advance.
Glacier Golf Tournament
Bring your clubs and play a 6-hole golf course on the Lake George ice, or Battlefield Park, depending on ice conditions. The event is open to teams of 2-4 players, and the cost to enter is around $10 per player. Prizes include gift cards to local golf courses, restaurants and more.
Hot Chocolate Bar
Pick up a Souvenir Mug and make your way to the Hot Chocolate Toppings Bar, co-sponsored by Lake George Winter Carnival Committee and Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center. Tickets usually cost $13 and $1 of your ticket purchase goes to the local charity of the week. Souvenir mugs are limited, so you’ll want to purchase yours online when they become available.
ATV Poker Run
Do you have an ATV or UTV? If so, head over to Duffy’s Tavern in Lake George Village on Saturdays in February for the ATV Poker Run. Registration is typically around $25 and includes a map of the course, prizes and giveaways. Tickets can be purchased online and check-in is at 9:00 am.
Book Your Stay for Lake George Winter Carnival
While many of the resorts and hotels in Lake George are seasonal, the Lake George suites and authentic log cabin rentals at Adirondack Diamond Point Lodge are open year-round. We are located just north of Lake George Village in a beautiful wooded setting, and close to all Lake George Winter Carnival Events. Book online or call (518) 668-4499.