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Festival of Lights | Ausable Chasm | Nov. 19 to Jan. 10, 2027


  • Ausable Chasm 2144 U.S. 9 Ausable Chasm, New York, 12911 United States (map)

Ausable Chasm Lights Up Winter With Four Illuminated Worlds

Ausable Chasm in winter. All photos courtesy lakechamplainregion.com (Roost).

Summer visitors know Ausable Chasm for its dramatic scenery. This season, the Ausable Chasm Festival of Lights gives the Adirondack attraction near Keeseville a different evening identity: four illuminated worlds spread through its wooded trails.

Running November 19, 2026 – January 10, 2027, the self-guided outdoor event invites visitors to explore the landscape after dark.

The journey begins at the Welcome Center, crosses the Route 9 bridge and continues to the Gatehouse. Beyond it, four distinct lighting environments give each section of the woods its own character. The forest supplies the setting; the lighting changes how visitors experience it.

Winter experience festival of lights at Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks.

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Four illuminated worlds at Ausable Chasm.

The festival’s appeal lies in its combination of a familiar natural attraction and an unfamiliar hour. Returning visitors get a reason to see Ausable Chasm differently, while newcomers can make the light walk the focus of an evening near Keeseville.

The self-guided format leaves room to pause for photographs and take in each environment without keeping pace with a tour group. It should appeal to couples, friends and families who enjoy outdoor seasonal outings and feel comfortable walking winter trails.

The festival also features a Winter Village with hot chocolate. Carolers and live music are planned for selected evenings, although visitors should check the schedule before building their outing around a performance.

Preview the Ausable Chasm Festival of Lights.

Ausable Chasm’s official festival video introduces its new winter event. Watch before planning an evening exploring the four illuminated worlds.

Ausable Chasm introduces its Festival of Lights winter experience.

The Festival of Lights adds a nighttime outdoor outing to the winter calendar near Keeseville in the Adirondacks.

Planning a winter light walk near Keeseville.

The festival runs Thursday–Sunday, 4:30 pm–8:30 pm, with the final timed ticket at 7:30 pm. It will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Admission costs $19.95 for ages 13 and older and $14.95 for ages 4–12. Children ages 3 and younger enter free. Advance booking is strongly recommended; walk-up tickets depend on availability.

One planning detail deserves attention: although introductory publicity describes a half-mile experience, the detailed official FAQ specifies a half-mile illuminated route followed by a half-mile return. Visitors should plan for approximately one mile of walking altogether.

Natural terrain also affects who can comfortably participate. The trail is not ADA accessible, and strollers and pets are prohibited. Families with young children should consider both the distance and conditions.

Illuminated gate at Ausable Chasm's festival of lights near Lake Champlain this winter.

ADK Taste recommendation.

Book ahead and dress for a winter walk, with warm layers and traction-friendly footwear. The lights may warrant lingering; cold feet rarely share that enthusiasm.

Check the official Festival of Lights page before traveling for current conditions, operating updates and entertainment information.

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Frequently asked questions.

When is the Ausable Chasm Festival of Lights?

November 19, 2026 – January 10, 2027, Thursday–Sunday, 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm. Holiday closures apply as listed above.

Where does the experience begin?

At the Ausable Chasm Welcome Center, 2144 Route 9, Ausable Chasm, near Keeseville.

How much are tickets?

Admission is $19.95 for ages 13 and older, $14.95 for ages 4–12 and free for ages 3 and younger.

How far will visitors walk?

Plan for approximately one mile total, including the illuminated route and return walk.

Should visitors reserve ahead?

Yes. Advance tickets are strongly recommended, and walk-up availability is not guaranteed. The final timed ticket is 7:30 pm.


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