Dad Fest | Old Forge | June 20, 2026
- George T Hiltebrant Recreation Center 201 North Street Old Forge, New York, 13420 United States (map)
Old Forge Dad Fest Brings Cars, Frogs, and Family Fun to the Central Adirondacks
Celebrate Dad on June 20 in Old Forge.
For one Saturday each June, the Adirondack hamlet of Old Forge embraces a simple but effective formula: classic cars, live music, family-friendly competition, and a surprising number of frogs.
The 3rd Annual Old Forge Dad Fest returns on Saturday, June 20, from 11 am – 4 pm, transforming George T Hiltebrant Recreation Center in Old Forge into a celebration of fathers, families, and community spirit.
Sponsored by the Central Adirondack Association, the event combines a classic car show, live entertainment, food and drinks, kids' activities, vendors, and one of the most delightfully chaotic traditions in the Adirondacks—the annual frog jumping competition.
For visitors planning a trip to the Central Adirondacks, Dad Fest offers an entertaining way to kick off summer while experiencing one of the region's most family-oriented community events.
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A Father’s Day weekend tradition in the Adirondacks.
Old Forge knows how to celebrate summer, and Dad Fest has quickly earned a place on the area's growing calendar of seasonal traditions.
Set in the heart of the Adirondacks near the Fulton Chain of Lakes, the event brings together locals, second-home owners, and travelers for an afternoon that feels refreshingly old-fashioned—in the best possible way.
Children bounce between inflatable attractions and yard games. Parents browse vendors and raffle tables. Classic rock and live music drift through the air while food and drink vendors keep visitors fueled for the day.
It's the kind of event where no one needs a detailed itinerary. Simply showing up is part of the fun.
A Dad Fest tradition, the classic car show.
Classic cars take center stage.
One of the biggest attractions at Old Forge Dad Fest is the antique and classic car show.
Visitors can stroll among rows of meticulously restored vehicles, admire chrome details, swap stories with owners, and cast a vote for their favorite entry in the Best in Show competition.
Those looking to showcase their own vehicle can register at the gate for $20.
The celebration continues after the awards are handed out. At 4 pm, classic cars roll through town during the annual parade. Participation in the parade is free, with lineup beginning at 3:30 pm.
For automotive enthusiasts, it's a chance to see everything from vintage cruisers to lovingly maintained classics against the backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains and summer sunshine.
The frog jumping competition returns.
Every community festival needs a signature tradition.
In Old Forge, that tradition involves amphibians.
The annual frog-jumping competition has entertained families since the 1980s and remains one of the event's most anticipated attractions.
Participants bring their own frogs and compete for trophies in categories that include biggest frog, smallest frog, fastest frog, longest jump, and more.
The result is exactly what organizers promise: absolute chaos.
Children cheer. Adults become unexpectedly competitive. Frogs occasionally refuse to cooperate.
In other words, it's Adirondack festival perfection.
The Frog Jumping Contest is an annual ritual in Old Forge.
Why this Adirondack event stands out.
Many summer festivals offer food, music, and vendors. Few combine those elements with a frog jumping contest and a classic car parade.
That blend of quirky tradition and small-town hospitality is part of what makes Dad Fest uniquely Adirondack.
The event feels less like a commercial attraction and more like a community gathering that visitors are invited to join. It's an opportunity to experience the personality of Old Forge beyond the area's well-known outdoor recreation, water parks, and lake activities.
ADK Taste pick.
The frog jumping competition may be the most memorable event of the day.
Even visitors without a frog should make time to watch. The combination of enthusiastic competitors, unpredictable contestants, and good-natured laughter perfectly captures the spirit of Dad Fest.
Frogs aren’t the only thing jumping in Old Forge during Dad Fest.
ADK Taste recommendation.
Arrive before noon to enjoy the car show before crowds build and spend time exploring downtown Old Forge between activities. Visitors can easily pair Dad Fest with lunch, shopping, or a stroll around the Fulton Chain area for a full day in the Central Adirondacks.
Plan your visit.
Old Forge Dad Fest takes place Saturday, June 20, from 11 am – 4 pm, with the classic car parade beginning at 4 pm.
Visitors are encouraged to check the event's official Facebook page for the latest updates, schedules, and weather-related announcements.
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FAQ
When is Old Forge Dad Fest?
Old Forge Dad Fest takes place Saturday, June 20, from 11 am – 4 pm.
Where is Dad Fest held?
The event takes place in Old Forge in the Central Adirondacks.
Is the classic car show open to the public?
Yes. Visitors can walk through the show, view the vehicles, and vote for their favorite car.
How much does it cost to enter a car in the show?
Vehicle registration is $20 at the gate.
What time is the classic car parade?
The parade begins at 4 pm. Vehicle lineup starts at 3:30 pm.
Can anyone participate in the frog jumping contest?
Yes. Participants bring their own frogs and compete in several categories, including longest jump, fastest frog, biggest frog, and smallest frog.
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- Posted In: Events, Central Adirondacks, Old Forge