Old Forge Winter Carnival 2026

Old Forge Winter Carnival snow castle.

Each February, winter takes center stage in Old Forge, and Presidents’ Week energy arrives early with one of the Central Adirondacks’ most beloved traditions.

The Old Forge Winter Carnival returns February 7–8, 2026, transforming the snow-covered village and McCauley Mountain into a festive playground of skiing, music, fireworks, and community spirit.

While details may shift slightly from year to year, the heart of the Winter Carnival never changes: locals and visitors coming together to celebrate everything that makes Adirondack winters memorable.

A winter weekend rooted in community.

The Old Forge Winter Carnival blends classic winter fun with small-town warmth. Families gather for sled races and s’mores, skiers carve turns under the lights, and longtime volunteers receive well-earned applause.

Hang on tight for Old Forge’s Winter Carnival sled races in 2026.

It’s the kind of weekend where you recognize faces at the firepit, strike up conversations in the chalet, and feel instantly part of the community—even if it’s your first visit.

The 2026 celebration builds on a strong tradition of volunteer leadership through the Central Adirondack Association, whose dedication keeps events like this thriving year after year.

Weekend highlights to plan around.

Saturday, February 7 – Winter Wonderland Day
Saturday delivers the signature moments that make this carnival shine. Expect festive energy throughout the day, surprise prizes for creative winter spirit, and family-friendly competitions such as the Snowflake Derby.

Winter fun in Old Forge.

As evening approaches, food specials and live music warm things up indoors before everyone heads outside for the coronation of the Winter Carnival King and Queen.

The night culminates with a torchlight ski parade—performed by local ski teams—and a fireworks display exploding above McCauley Mountain, lighting up the Adirondack sky in spectacular fashion.

Sunday, February 8
Sunday slows the pace just enough to savor it. Firepits glow during a cozy s’mores party, while the always-popular cardboard sled race brings laughs, creativity, and friendly competition to the slopes.

It’s a perfect sendoff to a whole weekend of winter fun.

Why it’s worth the winter drive.

The Old Forge Winter Carnival offers more than a schedule of events—it delivers a true Adirondack winter experience.

Old Forge Winter Carnival King and Queen.

Visitors can pair carnival activities with shopping in village boutiques, après-ski dining, and overnight stays that support local businesses during a vital winter weekend.

For travelers seeking a festive escape or locals looking to celebrate their hometown pride, this carnival proves that winter in the Adirondacks isn’t something to endure—it’s something to embrace.

Know before you go.

• Dates: February 7–8, 2026

• Location: Old Forge & McCauley Mountain

• Good to know: Schedules and activities may change slightly; check locally for final updates

• Pro tip: Arrive early on Saturday to enjoy daytime events before the evening fireworks

For more information and the current schedule, visit the event post.

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