Lake George’s Ice Bar Season Returns for 2026
Fire, frost, and frozen cocktails.
Lake George is spectacular in any season, especially winter.
There are winter traditions in the Adirondacks that feel almost ceremonial: the first hard freeze, the return of lake steam at dawn, and—if you know where to look—the annual re-emergence of ice bars along the shores of Lake George.
Ice sculptures are featured at many Lake George ice bars.
Equal parts spectacle and social scene, these pop-up bars are as much about atmosphere as they are about what’s in your glass.
Ice bars turn winter into an event, giving locals and visitors a reason to bundle up, lean into the cold, and toast the season together.
For 2026, the Lake George area once again delivers a strong lineup, with most events converging on the last weekend of January—prime time for deep winter vibes, sculpted ice, and cocktails designed to warm hands as much as spirits.
Below is ADK Taste’s curated guide to this year’s ice bar season, with tips on timing, logistics, and how to get the most out of each stop.
Why ice bars are a Lake George winter essential.
Ice bars thrive here for a reason. Lake George winters are cold enough to keep sculpted ice crisp, yet festive enough—thanks to Winter Carnival weekends, live music, and après-ski culture—to turn frigid temperatures into part of the fun. There’s also something inherently communal about standing around a glowing ice bar, firepit crackling nearby, swapping gloves to sip a drink. It’s winter, yes—but winter done right.
The Sagamore Resort Glacier Ice Bar
Bolton Landing | January 30–31
Few ice bars in the Adirondacks feel as cinematic as the Sagamore’s Glacier Ice Bar. Set against the frozen lake and the resort’s storied architecture, this event blends craftsmanship and scale—think towering ice sculptures, specialty cocktails, and a crowd that ranges from longtime locals to weekenders making a tradition of it.
Pro tip: Arrive earlier in the evening to beat the peak crowd and catch the ice at its most pristine.
ADK Talks episode: Cold Hard Magic
Our recent ADK Talks podcast episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how this iconic ice bar comes together.
Prefer to listen elsewhere?
▶︎ Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
Adirondack Brewery Funky Ice Fest
Lake George Village | January 30–31
Funky Ice Fest is where craft beer culture meets winter carnival energy.
Adirondack chair ice sculpture. Photo courtesy Adirondack Brewery.
Adirondack Brewery’s ice bar leans playful, pairing frozen décor with live music, local flavor, and beer that’s brewed for cold-weather drinking.
Pro tip: Late afternoon is a sweet spot—lively, but not shoulder-to-shoulder.
Good to know: This is one of the most social stops of the weekend, ideal if you’re bar-hopping through the Village.
Fort William Henry Hotel Fire and Ice Bar
Lake George Village | January 30–31
Set at the lakeside Fort William Henry Hotel, the Fire and Ice Bar balances contrast beautifully: sculpted ice installations paired with roaring firepits and hearty winter cocktails. It’s one of the most accessible ice bars for visitors staying in the Village—and a favorite for groups.
Pro tip: Dress for flexibility. You’ll move between outdoor ice displays and warmer indoor spaces throughout the evening.
The Gem Ice Bar
Bolton Landing | January 30–31
Ice sculpture courtesy The Gem.
The Gem takes a slightly different approach, bringing ice-bar flair into a more intimate dining-forward experience. Expect icy accents, themed drink specials, and the option to transition seamlessly from outdoor fun to a cozy table indoors.
Pro tip: Reservations are smart here. This one fills quickly, especially for dinner-plus-ice-bar plans.
The Lagoon Ice Bar
Lake George Village | Starting January 31, then weekends in February
Unlike most pop-ups, The Lagoon’s Ice Bar stretches the season, aligning with Lake George’s Winter Carnival weekends throughout February. That makes it ideal for visitors who miss the January rush—or locals looking for repeat winter fun.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with a Winter Carnival event for maximum atmosphere and minimal planning.
Planning tips before you go.
Check before you head out. The weather can shift quickly in the Adirondacks. Always confirm dates and hours on venue websites or Facebook pages.
Layer smartly. You’ll want warmth without sacrificing mobility—or your grip on a cocktail.
Check out our Events page for details. Each of these ice bars has a full event listing on ADKTaste.com. Read more about them there.
Final sip.
Ice bars aren’t just about drinking outdoors in January. They’re about leaning into Adirondack winter culture—celebrating cold, craftsmanship, and community in equal measure. Whether you’re chasing the spectacle or simply looking for a reason to toast the season, Lake George’s 2026 ice bar lineup delivers.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and experience in the Lake George area.
Shop for unique Adirondack apparel, gifts and merchandise.
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.
