How Locals Do Winter Carnival Right
The Lake George Winter Carnival is a five-week celebration of winter tradition, volunteer spirit, and community fun. Taking place February 7 through March 8, 2026, the Carnival unfolds across multiple weekends, each with its own signature events and personality.
This Insider’s Guide breaks down what’s happening each weekend, highlights the events locals plan around, and shares practical tips to help you navigate the Carnival like a pro.
👉 For live updates, times, and weather-related changes:
https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com
Photo: Courtesy of Lake George Beach Club
Full Calendar
❄️ Weekend 1: February 7-8
Opening Weekend & Chili Cook-Off
Weekend Highlights
- Opening Ceremonies
- Chili Cook-Off Competition
- Outhouse Races
- Jeep Duck Hunt
- ATV Poker Run (Weekend 1)
- Polar Plunge
- Carnival Parade
- Fireworks over Lake George
Insider Tips
- This is one of the busiest weekends—arrive early and plan to park once.
- Opening day sets the tone for the entire Carnival; locals stay through fireworks.
- Dress extra warm—expect long stretches outdoors.
🔥 Weekend 2: February 14-15
Winter Warm-Up & BBQ Cook-Off
Weekend Highlights
- BBQ Cook-Off Competition
- Ice racing events (ice-dependent)
- ATV Poker Run (Weekend 2)
- Polar Plunge
- Dog’s Got Talent
- Fireworks
Insider Tips
- This weekend balances big events with more breathing room.
- Great time for families and first-timers.
- Plan an indoor break mid-afternoon before evening events.
❤️ Weekend 3: February 21-22
Valentine’s Weekend & Chowder Cook-Off
Weekend Highlights
- Chowder Cook-Off Competition
- Ice motorcycle racing (ice-dependent)
- ATV Poker Run (Weekend 3)
- Glacier Golf (ice-dependent)
- Polar Plunge
- Fireworks
Insider Tips
- A favorite weekend for couples and groups.
- Expect higher restaurant demand—eat early or later in the evening.
- Mix outdoor events with indoor activities to stay comfortable.
🍗 Weekend 4: February 28-March 1
Wing Cook-Off, Outhouse Races & Snowmobiles
Weekend Highlights
- Wing Cook-Off Competition
- Outhouse Races
- Snowmobile Poker Run
- ATV Poker Run (Weekend 4)
- Polar Plunge
- Fireworks
Insider Tips
- This is a high-energy weekend with overlapping marquee events.
- Ideal for spectators who love action and competition.
- Arrive early and expect crowds near Shepard Park.
🧀 Weekend 5: March 7-8
Mac & Cheese, Chillin’ & Choppin’ & Grand Finale
Weekend Highlights
- Mac & Cheese Cook-Off Competition
- Chillin’ & Choppin’ Ice Carving (Pros & Amateurs)
- ATV Poker Run (Final Weekend)
- Polar Plunge
- Final Fireworks
- Winner’s Choice Raffle Drawing & Carnival Close
Insider Tips
- This weekend feels more relaxed and celebratory.
- Great for photos, food lovers, and last-chance events.
- Locals often linger after fireworks to enjoy live music around the Village.
Major Events of the 2026 Lake George Winter Carnival
🚽 Outhouse Races
A true Winter Carnival classic, the Outhouse Races combine creativity, teamwork, and winter fun as teams race handmade outhouses across the course. Whether on ice or land, this crowd-favorite event delivers laughs, competition, and serious bragging rights.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/outhouse-races
🚙 Jeep Duck Hunt
The Jeep Duck Hunt turns Lake George Village into a playful scavenger hunt. Participating Jeep owners search for hidden ducks throughout the community, making this event a fun way to explore the Village while taking part in a growing Carnival tradition.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/jeep-duck-hunt
🍲 Winter Carnival Cook-Off Competitions
The Cook-Off Series is a cornerstone of Winter Carnival weekends, featuring friendly culinary competition among local restaurants and chefs. From chili and BBQ to chowder, wings, and mac & cheese, attendees sample, vote, and help crown each weekend’s winner.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/cook-offs
☕ Souvenir Mug & Hot Chocolate Toppings Bar
Warm up with a collectible Winter Carnival souvenir mug filled with hot chocolate and your choice of toppings. This popular stop is both a cozy treat and a keepsake from Carnival weekends, available while supplies last.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/hot-chocolate-bar
🛞 ATV Poker Run
The ATV Poker Run brings motorsports excitement to Winter Carnival, inviting riders to follow a designated route while collecting cards along the way. Prizes are awarded for the best poker hands, making this a multi-weekend favorite for participants and spectators alike.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/atv-poker-run
❄️ Polar Plunge
The Polar Plunge challenges brave participants to take a quick dip in the icy waters of Lake George. Whether you’re plunging or cheering from shore, this event captures the adventurous spirit and fun-loving energy of Winter Carnival.
🔗 https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/events/polar-plunge
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Local Know-Before-You-Go Tips
Parking & Navigation
- Saturdays fill quickly—arrive early.
- Expect temporary road closures during parades and fireworks.
- Most events are walkable once parked.
Dining & Shopping
- Eat before noon or after 7 PM to avoid crowds.
- Canada Street shops are perfect for warming up between events.
- Many businesses host live music and specials during Carnival weekends.
Safety & Comfort
- Dress in layers with waterproof boots.
- Ice-dependent events may move or change—always check the live schedule.
- Set a meet-up spot if attending with a group.
The Local Takeaway
Winter Carnival isn’t meant to be rushed. Locals pick a weekend—or a theme—and enjoy the rhythm of the season. Whether you come for the food, the races, the traditions, or the community spirit, the Lake George Winter Carnival is winter done right.
👉 Plan your visit:
https://lakegeorgewintercarnival.com