Bands-n-Beans Returns to Lake George for its 32nd Year of Chili, Music, and Community Fun

Over twenty local restaurants will be throwing down their best chili concoctions, vying for the coveted People’s Choice Award.

For more than three decades, one late-March tradition has reliably turned up the heat in the Adirondacks. Bands-n-Beans, the beloved annual fundraiser hosted by the Lake George Arts Project, returns for its 32nd appearance on Sunday, March 29, 2026, bringing together live local music, serious chili bragging rights, and a whole lot of community spirit.

Held from 2 pm to 7 pm at the Fort William Henry Conference Center, Bands-n-Beans has earned its reputation as one of the biggest and most joyful parties in the North Country. The formula is simple and wildly effective: pack the room with great bands, invite the region’s best restaurants to serve their boldest chili, and let attendees decide who takes home the coveted People’s Choice Award.

A full afternoon of music and chili.

Organizers estimate that over 20 local restaurants will be ladling out their signature chili creations, from smoky classics to creative spins that push the boundaries of heat and flavor. Attendees sample, compare, debate, and vote—making every ticket holder an official judge in this friendly culinary showdown.

The music lineup matches the energy on the tasting floor. Nine local bands will perform across two stages, delivering five straight hours of 100% homegrown sound, including:

• Stony Creek Band

• The Lustre Kings

• Big Fez and the Surfmatics

• The Ill Funk Ensemble

• Harmony Rocks

• Northern Borne

• Mark & Jill

• Shine On

• Dirt Cheap - Acoustic

The rotating schedule keeps the vibe fresh and the dance floor moving, whether listeners gravitate toward roots, rock, funk, or jam-inspired grooves.

A fundraiser with real impact.

While Bands-n-Beans is known for its party atmosphere, its purpose runs deeper. Proceeds directly support the Lake George Arts Project’s free and open-to-all arts programming throughout the year.

That includes rotating exhibitions at the Courthouse Gallery, the popular Summer Concert Series, and Jazz at the Lake, the organization’s three-day jazz festival that draws performers and audiences from across the region.

By attending, guests help ensure that music and visual art remain accessible in the Adirondacks—not just at ticketed events, but in public spaces and community settings year-round.

Ticket details and why it’s a great deal.

Early planners score big with Early-Bird tickets at $30, while tickets at the door are $35. Either way, admission includes five hours of live music from nine bands and unlimited chili sampling from roughly 25 local restaurants. It consistently ranks among the best entertainment values of the spring season in Lake George.

Support the Lake George Arts Project, it’s live music program and arts gallery.

Plan ahead.

Bands-n-Beans routinely draws a lively crowd, and early-bird tickets tend to move quickly. Music lovers, chili enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a high-energy Adirondack event should mark their calendars now.

For full details, ticket information, and updates, visit the Lake George Arts Project website or check out the official Facebook event page.

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