Raquette Lake Winter Carnival | February 14-15, 2026

Saturday, February 14, 2026 10:00 AM
Sunday, February 15, 2026 2:00 PM

Raquette Lake, NY, 13360 United States (map)

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Raquette Lake Winter Carnival 2026

Fireworks on a frozen lake during winter carnival. — Winter fireworks light up Raquette Lake’s Winter Carnival.

Each February, Raquette Lake leans fully into winter—and does it with heart. Over Presidents Day Weekend 2026, this historic Adirondack hamlet once again hosts its beloved Winter Carnival, a two-day celebration that blends old-school winter fun, community traditions, and the unmistakable charm of life on the lake.

For longtime residents and returning visitors alike, the Raquette Lake Winter Carnival feels less like a scheduled event and more like a reunion. Friends reconnect, families gather outdoors, and newcomers quickly discover why this small community leaves such a big impression.

A classic Adirondack winter weekend.

Held on Saturday and Sunday during Presidents’ Day weekend, the Raquette Lake Winter Carnival embraces the simple pleasures of winter in the Adirondacks.

Fun and games at Raquette Lake’s winter carnival.

Events take place in familiar community spaces—from the Village Green to the frozen surface of Raquette Lake itself—creating an atmosphere that feels authentic, welcoming, and refreshingly unplugged.

Rather than overwhelming schedules or ticketed attractions, this carnival focuses on participation, laughter, and shared experiences.

It’s the kind of weekend where kids dash between games, adults cheer on friendly competitions, and everyone looks up when fireworks light the winter sky.

Saturday highlights: games, laughter, and fireworks.

Saturday kicks off with activities designed to delight families and keep the energy high throughout the day.

10:00 am – Kids Games on the Village Green
The Village Green becomes the hub of youthful excitement as kids take part in classic winter games. Expect plenty of movement, smiles, and cheering parents bundled up on the sidelines.

Noon – Ladies Frying Pan Toss
A carnival favorite, the Ladies Frying Pan Toss delivers equal parts skill and spectacle. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch and encourage competitors during this lighthearted test of strength and technique.

Woman preparing to toss a frying pan at a winter carnival. — Ladie’s fry pan toss in Raquette Lake.

2:00 pm – Kids’ entertainment at the Raquette Lake Library
After a busy morning outdoors, families can warm up inside the Raquette Lake Library, where kid-friendly entertainment offers a cozy break.

2:00 pm – Golf on the Lake (weather permitting)
When conditions allow, golf on the frozen lake adds a distinctly Adirondack twist to a familiar sport—proof that winter fun thrives when creativity meets cold weather.

7:00 pm – Fireworks (weather permitting)
Saturday wraps up with a crowd-pleasing fireworks display. Bursts of color over the lake reflect off snow and ice, creating a magical moment that often becomes the weekend’s most talked-about memory.

Sunday traditions and friendly competition.

Sunday keeps the momentum going with one of the carnival’s most anticipated events.

Noon – Crosscut & Chainsaw Competition
This hands-on competition showcases classic Adirondack skills and draws enthusiastic spectators. It’s a nod to the region’s working history and a reminder that winter sports here extend well beyond skis and snowshoes.

All event times are subject to change without notice.

Two men using a crosscut saw in a competition. — Cross cut competitors at Raquette Lake’s Winter Carnival.

Support local and soak in the community spirit.

A winter weekend in Raquette Lake offers more than scheduled events. Local businesses, eateries, and lodging options benefit from carnival visitors, and supporting them helps sustain this tight-knit community year-round.

Whether it’s grabbing a warm meal, booking a cozy overnight stay, or chatting with locals between events, visitors play a meaningful role in keeping this tradition thriving.

The Raquette Lake Winter Carnival proves that winter doesn’t slow the Adirondacks down—it brings people together. Bundle up, join the fun, and experience a Presidents Day weekend that feels as genuine as it is joyful.

For more information, visit the event webpage.