This Weekend in the ADK: Mud, Maple, and a Few Reasons to Get Out of the House
The Adirondacks are in that in-between moment—when winter hasn’t fully let go, and spring is still finding its footing. It’s mud season, yes. But it’s also maple season, festival season, and quietly, one of the most interesting times to be here.
This is when the crowds thin out, the pace slows, and the events that do happen feel a little more local, a little more personal. Exactly the kind of weekends ADK Taste exists to curate.
These aren’t all the events happening across the Park. Just a hand-picked shortlist—worth your time, and maybe even worth planning your weekend around.
Here are a few of ADK Taste’s hand-picked events worth your time this weekend:
→ Don’t miss a weekend like this. Explore the full lineup below.
Here’s what’s happening across the Adirondacks this weekend.
From a front yard in 1951 to a defining Adirondack exhibition, the 75th Central Adirondack Art Show at View Arts Center in Old Forge is a standout this season—featuring regional artists and a legacy worth seeing.
A detective, an AI judge, and 90 minutes to prove innocence. “Mercy” brings a tense, thought-provoking thriller to Indian Lake Theater for an ideal Adirondack movie night.
A heist worth your time. →
Enjoy live music, local vendors, and adorable adoptable pets at Paul Smith’s College. This feel-good Adirondack fundraiser supports the Tri-Lakes Humane Society—and might just help you meet your new best friend.
Step into a world of pirates, princesses, and playful chaos at Imagi-NATION. This 3-day Adirondack festival blends cosplay, live performances, and family fun.
An Oscar-winning musical returns to the big screen. Chicago plays Arts Center Lake Placid —just $7 for a stylish Adirondack night out.
Jazz, crime, and dance at a price that can’t be beat. →
Celebrate 25 sweet years at the Hadley Maple Festival. From maple treats and local vendors to train rides and a classic car show, this free Adirondack spring event is a must for families and weekend explorers.
It’s the final weekend to meet up with goats, donkeys, and mini horses, and enjoy family-friendly activities at the Circle B Ranch.
Mud season gets a glow-up at Mountain Mudfest near Saranac Lake. Live music, local food, and delightfully messy fun at Mt. Pisgah make this one of the Adirondacks’ most uniquely entertaining spring events.
Ticonderoga blooms into a living art installation on April 25. The Blossom Reverie Fair assembles floral sculptures, puppetry, music, and vendors for a whimsical Adirondack spring celebration.
A one-night Adirondack concert in Upper Jay reimagines Lucinda Williams through a powerhouse lineup of local musicians. Intimate, soulful, and pay-what-you-wish—this is the kind of live music moment worth planning around.
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Upcoming Adirondack events.
It’s never too early to start planning your next adventure in the ADK.
One road. One climb. Big Adirondack views. The Prospect Mountain Road Race returns to Lake George on May 9, challenging runners to conquer 1,601 feet of elevation—all for a great cause.
Paddle into spring at Saranac Lake’s ‘Round the Mountain race. This 10.5-mile Adirondack favorite winds through lakes, river, and carry routes—welcoming everyone from casual paddlers to seasoned racers.
The Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge returns with high-stakes fly fishing, riverside gatherings, live music, and Adirondack tradition. It’s one of spring’s most authentic events.
Boreal birds, sunrise hikes, and one million acres of wilderness—this four-day Adirondack festival is a must for birders and nature lovers alike. Explore guided outings, rare species, and the wild heart of Hamilton County.
William Shatner returns to Ticonderoga this June for an immersive Star Trek experience inside the iconic USS Enterprise set. Tours, autographs, and once-in-a-lifetime fan moments await in the Adirondacks.
To see all our recommendations for upcoming events in the Adirondacks, visit our events page.
ADK Talks Podcast
Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.