Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival 2025

The 2025 Winter Carnival is from January 31 to February 9.

The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, a cherished tradition since 1897, is one of the United States' oldest winter carnivals.

Scheduled for January 31 to February 9, the 2025 Winter Carnival promises a diverse array of events and activities, including:

• Chocolate Festival

• All-day Clue Hunt

• Icicle Contest

• Ice Palace Fun Run

• 3rd Annual Winter Carnival Fashion Show

• Arctic Golf

• Snowshoe Races

• Innertube Races

• Ski Races

• CanAm Snow Rugby

• and Much More!

Photo courtesy Saranac Lake Winter Carnival.

This year’s theme is Music Legends. Expect lots of great live music from the best local musicians.

As he has done for several years, Pulitizer-prize-winning Doonesbury cartoonist and native son, Gary Trudeau, designed this year’s carnival button incorporating the Music Legends theme.

The Saranac Lake Library is hosting a series of excellent music movies, like Martin Scorsese’s fantastic documentary, “The Last Waltz,” chronicling the final performance of legendary rock band The Band. Also on tap is the hilarious “mockumentary”, “This is Spinal Tap.”

And don’t miss the Karaoke competition.

The majestic Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Ice Palace.

The stunning Ice Palace is the focal point of the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. Constructed from ice taken from nearby Lake Flower, this iconic building showcases the creativity and expertise of the carnival's planners. Every year, the palace features a distinctive design, lighting the night with spectacular colors and lights.

More detailed information on the event schedule will be released soon. This beloved carnival plays a crucial role in preserving Saranac Lake's legacy and ensuring that future generations can continue the tradition of celebrating winter in style.

Take part in winter racing and sporting events.

Lil’ and Big ADKers compete in the snowtube race on Mt. Pisgah.

Get into the winter spirit by taking part in or watching a fun run, exciting snowshoeing, skating, cross-country races, and different winter sports competitions, such as rugby, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee in the snow.

These events are perfect for both experienced athletes and casual spectators. They truly embody the essence of the season, promoting outdoor activity and community involvement.

Parades, processions and fireworks!

The carnival's parades are a magnificent sight to behold. They feature imaginative floats, lively music, and vibrant costumes. Keep an eye out for the majestic King and Queen of the Carnival, who preside over the festivities in regal attire.

Everyone loves to strut their stuff at Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival Parade.

No celebration is complete without a dazzling fireworks display. The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival often includes several nights of fireworks displays, such as during the lighting of the ice palace, the torchlight parade of skiers on Mt. Pisgah, and at the closing ceremonies. Make sure not to miss these breathtaking shows, which fill the night sky with explosions of color and light, leaving spectators in awe.

So mark your calendar and get ready for one of the best events of the winter in the Adirondacks.

For more information, including schedule of events, visit the Saranac Winter Carnival website or Facebook page.

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