Saranac Lake Winter Carnival

From February 6 to 15, 2026, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival transforms the Adirondack village into an ice-sculpted wonderland that’s been drawing winter lovers since 1897.

This year’s “Cartoonival” theme brings animated nostalgia to life across ten days of events centered on the hand-built Ice Palace at Pontiac Bay on Lake Flower. You’ll find everything from speed skating competitions to the legendary ladies’ frying pan toss, all framed by the High Peaks that ring this historic village. Most events are free, though the volunteer-run committee welcomes donations to keep this 129-year tradition alive.

The Ice Palace stands as the carnival’s beating heart. Starting January 21, volunteers harvest massive ice blocks directly from Lake Flower and stack them into a glittering fortress that opens February 7. Past palaces have featured interior rooms, towering battlements, and intricate cartoon character designs that shimmer under colored lights.

Opening-night fireworks on February 7 and closing-night pyrotechnics on February 14 bookend the celebration, with the Gala Parade rolling through downtown on Valentine’s Day afternoon. Between these signature moments, you’ll find arctic golf played on frozen Lake Flower, snowshoe softball matches, curling tournaments, and the crowd favorite: watching competitors hurl cast-iron skillets across the ice for distance.

The carnival appeals to everyone. Families with young kids love the children’s parade, sledding hills, and hot chocolate stations scattered through downtown. Couples find romance in moonlit walks along the Ice Palace and lakeside dining at Bitters & Bones (founded 2015), the rustic-industrial brewery at 65 Broadway that serves wood-fired fare and locally brewed pints. Groups of friends gravitate toward the beer gardens, live music at multiple venues, and the competitive events where locals take their arctic golf very seriously. Even solo travelers feel at home here thanks to the shoulder-to-shoulder camaraderie that defines small-town winter festivals.

When to Go and What to Expect

Peak crowds gather for the Gala Parade on February 14, when Main Street fills three hours before the 2 p.m. start time. Arrive by 11 a.m. to claim prime viewing spots near the intersection of Main Street and Broadway. The Ice Palace draws steady visitors throughout all ten days, but weekday afternoons (February 10-12) offer the calmest experience for photos and exploration without jostling through lines.

Most competitive events run on weekend mornings. Arctic golf tees off Saturday, February 8, at 10 a.m., with teams competing across nine holes carved into Lake Flower’s frozen surface. The ladies’ frying pan toss typically takes place on Sunday, February 9, around noon near the Ice Palace, drawing both serious athletes and first-timers wielding borrowed skillets. Snowshoe softball matches scatter across both weekends, with exact times posted on the carnival website by late January.

Weather in mid-February averages 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, often dropping below zero at night. The carnival happens during what locals call “the coldest week of the year,” so dress in heavy layers: thermal base layers, insulated snow pants, a down parka, waterproof boots rated to -20°F, thick gloves, and a hat that covers your ears. Hand and toe warmers tucked into boots and gloves make hours-long outdoor events bearable. Wind off the lake cuts deep, so a neck gaiter or balaclava helps during evening fireworks.

Getting There and Getting Around

Downtown Saranac Lake clusters within easy walking distance, with most carnival events concentrated between Main Street and the Lake Flower waterfront. The Ice Palace sits at Pontiac Bay along Lake Flower Avenue near the junction with River Street. Free parking fills up early on weekends. Your best bet: arrive before 9 a.m. to snag spots in the Dorsey Street parking lot (accessible by taking a left at the Main Street light, then an immediate right). Street parking along Broadway and Church Street works for weekday visits but disappears fast during peak times.

If parking proves impossible, drop your group at the Ice Palace first, then circle out to the lots near Tops Market on Church Street. It’s a five-minute walk back to downtown along the scenic Riverwalk, which follows the Saranac River.

Where to Stay

The carnival draws visitors from across the Northeast, so book lodging early. Downtown hotels like Hotel Saranac (a restored 1927 landmark) and Saranac Waterfront Lodge (at 250 Lake Flower Avenue) put you steps from parade routes and ice palace grounds, but they fill up months in advance for peak weekends.

Lakeside vacation rentals offer more space and flexibility, especially for families or groups planning extended stays. Properties along Lake Flower’s shoreline let you walk to carnival events while enjoying private waterfront access. Browse lakefront rentals near Saranac Lake on Lake.com to find options that fit your group size and budget. Many rentals include full kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and deck space for morning coffee overlooking frozen Lake Flower.

Quick Tips

Best photo spot: The Ice Palace at dusk, when colored lights illuminate the ice sculptures and the High Peaks glow pink in alpenglow.

Budget saver: Pack your own food and hot drinks in a thermos. Most outdoor events allow coolers and picnic supplies.

Family hack: Bring sleds even if sledding isn’t on your agenda. Kids get restless during long parades, and nearby hills offer quick bursts of energy between events.

Pet owners: Dogs are welcome at most outdoor carnival events on leash, but skip the crowded Gala Parade, where paw traffic can overwhelm even social pets.

Local Dining

After a day on the ice, Bitters & Bones at 65 Broadway (opened 2015) delivers wood-smoked brisket, house-brewed ales, and a rooftop deck with lake views. The rustic-industrial space features exposed brick, Edison bulb lighting, and a menu that changes seasonally. Their beer-and-bourbon pairing specials make warming up an art form.

Blue Moon Cafe at 55 Main Street (serving since 1996) operates breakfast through early dinner with house-roasted coffee from owners Ken and Tricia Fontana’s Cold River Coffee Company. The breakfast menu leans toward creative takes on classics: think cheddar-bacon-jalapeño soup paired with thick-cut French toast. Weekday mornings see smaller crowds than weekends.

Both restaurants require reservations during carnival week, especially for Friday and Saturday dinner service. Call at least 2 weeks in advance to secure tables during peak times.

FAQ

How much does the carnival cost?
Most events are free, including access to the Ice Palace, parades, and fireworks. Competitive events like Arctic golf charge small entry fees ($10-20 per team). Food vendors, beer gardens, and sit-down restaurants operate at normal prices.

Is the carnival kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The children’s parade, ice sculpture contests, and sledding hills are specifically aimed at families. The Ice Palace captivates kids of all ages, though very young children may tire during long outdoor stretches in extreme cold.

Can I tour the Ice Palace interior?
Yes, once it opens on February 7. Volunteers lead informal tours, explaining the construction process and highlighting theme-specific details. Interior rooms remain open during daylight hours, though extreme cold can sometimes force temporary closures.

What if it’s too cold?
The carnival committee monitors the weather and posts safety advisories when temperatures drop below -10°F. Most events continue unless conditions threaten frostbite within minutes. Indoor alternatives like museums, cafes, and shops provide warm refuges between outdoor activities.

Where’s the best parking?
The Dorsey Street lot offers the most spaces closest to downtown events. Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekends. Weekday visitors find ample street parking along Broadway and Church Street.

Can I participate in events or just watch?
Both! Competitive events like arctic golf, snowshoe softball, and the frying pan toss welcome walk-up entries for most categories. Check the carnival website for registration deadlines and rules specific to each competition.