Embracing Winter Magic: The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
An Adirondack winter tradition for nearly 130 years.
The iconic Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Ice Palace. All photos courtesy Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. 2011 ice palace Photo by Mark Kurtz.
Located within the Adirondack Park's Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region in upstate New York, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival stands as a testament to the local community’s resilience and indomitable spirit.
This annual celebration, now in its second century, transforms the quaint town of Saranac Lake into a winter wonderland, captivating the hearts of both locals and visitors alike.
As the 2026 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival approaches, there's no better time to plan a trip to this enchanting event, where frosty festivities and timeless traditions come together to create a truly magical experience.
A glimpse into Adirondack timeless traditions.
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival traces its roots back to 1897 when the first organized event occurred.
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival circa1917.
Born out of the locals' desire to break free from the monotony of winter, the carnival quickly gained popularity, evolving into the spectacular celebration we know today.
Over the years, it has weathered the storms of time and become one of the oldest winter festivals in the United States.
February 2025 promises to uphold the rich traditions that have defined the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival for over a century. Experience the magic of time-honored events, uniting generations to celebrate winter's beauty.
Unforgettable frosty fun.
Magnificent Ice Palace
The breathtaking Ice Palace is at the heart of the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. Crafted from ice harvested from nearby Lake Flower, this iconic structure is a testament to the creativity and skill of the carnival's organizers. The palace takes on a unique design each year, illuminating the night with a dazzling display of lights and colors.
Winter Racing and Sporting Events
Snowbowling. Photo courtesy Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. Photo by Meachele Manchester
Embrace the winter spirit by participating in or witnessing a fun run, thrilling snowshoeing, skating, XC races, and various winter sports competitions, including rugby, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee in the snow.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual observer, these events capture the season's essence, promoting outdoor activity and community engagement.
Parades and Processions
The carnival's parades are a sight to behold, featuring imaginative floats, lively music, and vibrant costumes. Watch for the majestic King and Queen of the Carnival, who preside over the festivities in regal attire.
Getting into the spirit at Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival parade.
Fireworks extravaganzas
No celebration is complete without a dazzling fireworks display. The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival boasts several nights of fireworks displays, including at the lighting of the ice palace on February 7, during the torchlight parade of skiers on Mt. Pisgah and at the closing ceremonies. Don’t miss these breathtaking shows that paint the night sky with explosions of color and light, leaving spectators in awe.
Saranac Lake is your destination for community spirit, snow-covered scenery and charming accommodations.
The warmth of the local community is palpable during the carnival. Engage with friendly locals, participate in events, and share the collective joy permeating the town throughout the festival. Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival was named to Country Living Magazine’s “19 Best Winter Festivals in the U.S.”
Winter in downtown Saranac Lake.
The Adirondack Mountains are a winter wonderland, and February brings a pristine layer of snow that transforms the region into a snowy paradise.
Capture the beauty of snow-laden landscapes and enjoy the crisp, clean air.
Saranac Lake offers a range of cozy accommodations, from historic inns to modern lodges. Enjoy warm hospitality and a comfortable stay, making your winter carnival experience even more memorable. Or stay in nearby Lake Placid and experience the Olympic history of another charming mountain town while you’re in the Adirondacks.
Lighted torch parade on Mt. PIsgah.
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is truly a one-of-a-kind event that you won't want to miss. The history, the culture, and the sheer fun make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Adirondacks in February. So, mark your calendars and start planning your trip today. We guarantee you won't be disappointed.
For more information, visit the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival official website.
Find the great things to do and the best places to stay, eat and shop near Saranac Lake.
You may already have paddled part of America’s longest inland water trail without knowing it.
Historian Sandra Weber examines John Brown Farm, the myths that surround its legacy, and why visitors continue to travel to North Elba today.
Explore the Saranac Laboratory Museum and its significant impact on finding a worldwide cure for Tuberculosis.
Adirondack road racing, whiskey tastings, music, history reenactors, and mountain-town culture near Lake Placid.
An historic Winter Olympics village, mountain town, hiking basecamp, luxury escape and road-trip stop. Visit Lake Placid, NY.
The Adirondack Paddling Symposium returns to Saranac Lake this June with a full weekend of instruction, community, and Adirondack waterways.
Warm weather transforms Lake Placid’s Olympic Jumping Complex into a high-flying adventure.
Whiteface Lodge blends Great Camp charm with modern luxury— fireplaces, spa days, and a private beach near Lake Placid.
When a “Weekend Update” anchor meets a 90-mph ice chute in the Adirondacks, you know it’s going to be good television.
The first First Lady to ride with the Olympic bobsled team? It happened in the Adirondacks.
Riders launch down the Lake Placid Toboggan Chute and glide across frozen Mirror Lake during the winter season.
Visit an Adirondack gallery where you enter with curiosity and leave with a deeper sense of place.
Bitters & Bones in Saranac Lake—an Adirondack microbrewery and smoke-forward kitchen known for bold flavors.
The Olympic Center in Downtown Lake Placid is the site for a new sculpture honoring Herb Brooks.
In this episode, we crack open the ADK Talks mailbag — and our listeners did not hold back.
In this episode, we sit down with Noah Raymer, Director of Communications for the Lake Placid Film Festival, to explore what makes this long-running North Country tradition so special.
Find what you’re looking for in the Adirondacks.
Adirondack gifts, clothing and accessories.
Bring a bold splash of the Adirondack spirit wherever you roam with this vibrant, adventure-ready tote bag. Featuring a chic golden hue and a retro-style design, this tote is more than just an accessory—it’s a statement of your love for the mountains, forests, and lakes that make the Adirondacks legendary.
Crafted from durable, easy-care polyester and finished with reinforced stitching, this bag is made to go the distance—from farmers’ markets to campsites, library runs to beach days. The roomy boxed corners make packing snacks, sweaters, books, or souvenirs a breeze, while the sturdy navy or black straps sit comfortably on your shoulder no matter how full the day (or the bag).
And with the playful “Find the Good Stuff Here” message on the reverse, this tote is a nod to curiosity, good vibes, and great finds.
Perfect for:
-
Day trips to your favorite lake or historic site
-
Grocery hauls and artisan market strolls
-
Picnic gear, beach towels, or a cozy flannel
-
Commuters who love to keep it wild
-
Gift-givers looking for something both beautiful and useful
Product Features:
-
100% polyester for strength and durability
-
Reinforced handle stitching for everyday carry confidence
-
Spacious 16" x 16" design with boxed corners for easy packing
-
Soft yet sturdy medium-weight fabric
-
Stylish navy handles to complement any outfit
Go ahead—Find the Good Stuff. Carry it in style.
A perfect gift for Adirondack lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who believes “Forever Wild” is more than a motto—it’s a way of life.
In the Adirondack Mountains, every summit tells a story. Stories of persistence, breathtaking views, and a connection to nature so profound it’s almost mythical. This shirt doesn’t just celebrate the 46 High Peaks; it embodies them.
Soft-washed and garment-dyed, the fabric feels like a well-worn trail map—comfortably familiar yet sturdy enough for any adventure. The relaxed fit lets you move easily, whether you're scaling Colden or savoring a fireside evening. Double-needle stitching ensures it’s as resilient as the trails themselves, while the tubular design holds its shape through time, much like the enduring peaks it honors.
It's available in six hues inspired by Adirondack landscapes: Earthy Espresso, High Peaks Pepper, Evergreen Moss, Midnight Blue, Sunset Grape, and Autumn Ember Chili.
Try it on, and you’re not just wearing a T-shirt—you’re carrying the spirit of the High Peaks, ready to inspire your next trek or remind you of the ones you’ve conquered. Perfect for the 46er at heart—or anyone dreaming of their own Adirondack ascent.
Because adventure doesn’t stop when you leave the trail.
- Made with high quality, 100% ring-spun US cotton for long-lasting comfort.
- The relaxed fit keeps the wearer comfy in both casual and semi-formal settings while the crew neckline delivers that classic, neat style that makes it perfect for accessorizing.
- The pre-shrunk fabric ensures a consistently great fit.
- Made using 100% US cotton that is ethically grown and harvested. The manufacturer is a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol ensuring ethical and sustainable means of production.
| S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width, in | 18.25 | 20.25 | 22.00 | 24.00 | 26.00 | 27.75 | 29.75 |
| Length, in | 26.62 | 28.00 | 29.37 | 30.75 | 31.62 | 32.50 | 33.50 |
| Sleeve length from center back, in | 16.25 | 17.75 | 19.00 | 20.50 | 21.75 | 23.25 | 24.63 |
| Size tolerance, in | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
You’ve wandered through the misty pines at dawn, the echo of a distant loon calling across the lake. You’re not one for the ordinary—your gear, like your adventures, must be timeless. Enter the Adirondack Loon Cap.
Crafted from 100% cotton twill, this is no ordinary cap. It’s the kind you throw on for a day of rugged escapades or an afternoon stroll by the water's edge. Its worn-in look whispers of trails yet to be explored.
The low profile hugs the contours of your head just right, while the D-ring closure with a self-fabric hideaway strap ensures an impeccable fit—no matter how wild the wind or how far the journey.
Protection from the sun? Naturally. But more than that, it’s about wearing something that feels like it’s always been part of your story.
It’s early morning, and the mist hovers above the glassy surface of your favorite Adirondack lake, undisturbed but for the rhythmic dip of your paddle. The only sound is the gentle ripple of water breaking against your canoe. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of pine and the promise of another perfect day in the Adirondacks. Your worries are left ashore, traded for the serenity that only paddling these waters can provide.
You’re not just wearing any shirt. You’re donning an invitation to adventure, to explore the thousand lakes and secret inlets of the North Country.
Our Adirondack Paddler’s Long-Sleeve Tee is made of the softest cotton. It's perfect for layering or wearing on its own. It’s designed for those who know the joy of a paddling in the Adirondacks, who’ve felt the thrill of a canoe gliding silently through mirror-still waters.
This ultra-cotton long-sleeve tee is perfect for Adirondack paddlers of all kinds—canoers, kayakers, SUPs, guide boaters and more. It is a clear comfort winner in any season.
There are no side seams for a relaxed fit. The shoulders are taped for improved durability. We love that the cotton used for these shirts is environmentally friendly.
Check the size chart; friends and family tell us this long-sleeved tee may run a little small.
| S | M | L | XL | 2XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width, in | 17.99 | 20.00 | 22.01 | 23.98 | 25.98 |
| Length, in | 27.99 | 28.98 | 30.00 | 30.98 | 32.01 |
| Sleeve length, in | 25.00 | 25.51 | 25.98 | 26.50 | 27.01 |
This classic unisex jersey short-sleeve tee fits like a well-loved favorite. Soft cotton and quality print make even the roughest beast fall in love with it over and over again.
These t-shirts have-ribbed knit collars to bolster shaping. The shoulders are tapered for a better fit over time. Dual side seams hold the garment's shape for longer. Perfect when your out on the trail tracking the elusive Sasquatch.
.: Made with 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, a lightweight fabric that is easy to layer, breathable. Perfect for an active Adirondack Park lifestyle.
.: The retail fit that is ideal for casual and semi-formal settings. The crew neckline adds a classic, neat style that's perfect for accessorizing.
.: Manufactured in the USA and internationally in humane, no-sweat-shop, sustainable way and is part of the Fair Labor Association as well as Platinum WRAP certified.
.: The tear-away label minimizes skin irritations.
.: Fabric blends: Ash and Heather Prism colors - 99% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, 1% polyester; Heather and Solid Blend colors - 52% cotton, 48% polyester; Athletic Heather - 90% cotton, 10% polyester.
Our leather patch hats are made from 100% bio-washed chino twill. It's a very comfortable yet sturdy material that will last for ages. This stylish hat has an unstructured shape with a low profile and a pre-curved bill
.
.: Materials: 100% bio-washed chino twill cotton (hat), 100% PU leather (patch)
.: Unstructured, six-panel, low-profile
.: Pre-curved bill
.: Sewn-in label
.: Blank sourced from Bangladesh
.: NB! Hand-wash only
Channel your inner Guardian… of the woods. This cheeky "May the Forest Be With You" Adirondacks t shirt is perfect for hikers, campers, and anyone who prefers pine trees over palm trees. With a design that pays tribute to a galaxy far, far away—while keeping your boots planted firmly in the Adirondack backcountry—this shirt is a must-have for nature lovers and science fiction fans alike.
Printed on a super-soft, unisex tee made from ethically harvested, 100% ring-spun cotton, it's lightweight enough for summer hikes and cozy enough to layer in the fall. The durable shoulder tape and ribbed collar mean it holds up trail after trail, wash after wash. And the tear-away label? That's pure comfort.
Whether you're exploring the High Peaks or grabbing a beer in Lake Placid, this tee makes it clear: the forest is strong with you.
Why You'll Love It:
-
100% ring-spun US cotton (heather options include polyester)
-
Lightweight, breathable, and perfect for year-round wear
-
Classic unisex fit with a crew neck for versatile style
-
No side seams = no twisting or rubbing
-
Tear-away label for tag-free comfort
-
Ethically made by Gildan, a member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol
Get yours before they disappear into the forest mist.
| S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width, in | 18.00 | 20.00 | 22.00 | 24.00 | 26.00 | 28.00 | 30.00 |
| Length, in | 28.00 | 29.00 | 30.00 | 31.00 | 32.00 | 33.00 | 34.00 |
| Sleeve length, in | 8.23 | 8.50 | 8.74 | 9.02 | 9.25 | 9.49 | 9.72 |
| Size tolerance, in | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
ADK Taste Instagram followers will immediately recognize our popular Loon Facts that we share regularly. These popular factoids are now available on ceramic mugs, suitable for coffee, tea, hot cocoa, or even a hot toddy in front of the campfire.
Each mug features an interesting fact about loons, like this one: Fact #12: Loon Chicks are Loonlets -- and the explanation. It's a great way to show off your love of the Common Loon, the Adirondacks, and random trivia.
Perfect for coffee, tea and hot chocolate, this durable ceramic mug also makes a great gift.
- White ceramic
- 11oz (0.33 l)
ADK Taste Instagram followers will immediately recognize our popular Loon Facts, which we share regularly. These factoids are now available on ceramic mugs, suitable for coffee, tea, hot cocoa, or even a hot toddy in front of the campfire.
These unique 11-oz hot beverage mugs feature an interesting fact about loons, such as “Fact #12: Loons are Not Ducks,” with an explanation. It's a great way to show off your love for the Common Loon, the Adirondacks, and random trivia.
This ceramic mug is perfect for coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. It also makes an excellent gift for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone who appreciates unique, trivia-inspired drinkware.
Material: White ceramic
Size: 11oz (0.33 l)
Uses: Coffee, tea, hot cocoa, hot toddy
Features: Durable, trivia-themed design, great gift idea
Upcoming events in Saranac Lake and the Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region of the Adirondacks.
275 boats race across 90 unforgettable miles from Old Forge to Saranac Lake over 3 days.
Here to help anyone tame their savage thirst with 32 oz. of their favorite beverage, the ADK Taste Sasquatch Tumbler is constructed from robust stainless steel and comes with a built-in drinking straw.
.: Stainless steel bottle; black plastic screw-on cap
.: One size: 32oz (0.95l)
.: Double insulation construction
.: Inner plastic straw included
.: Hand wash only