Lake George Winter Carnival to celebrate 63 years of fun
LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The Lake George Winter Carnival is just around the corner, and organizers are bringing back classic and traditional events. For the 63rd year, the month-long winter weekend event begins on Saturday, February 1, throughout the village.
Opening weekend festivities on Saturday include opening ceremonies at noon with speeches from local officials, a parade down Canada Street from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and a fireworks show at 7 p.m. launched from MacDonald's Pier in Shepard Park. Participants can expect free hot chocolate and s'mores every weekend, dog talent competitions, make-your-own tie-dye shirts, and more.
Outhouse Races
The infamous outhouse races are happening twice this year, on February 1 and February 22. Teams of five, consisting of one rider, two pushers, and two pullers, will take their custom-made outhouses through a course on the ice of Lake George.
Raceable outhouses must be made of wood, aluminum, fiberglass, or steel and be four feet by four feet and six feet tall. They must also have a push bar or plate on the back that extends no more than one foot from the sides and no doors or windows. The outhouse and rider's total weight must be at least 250 pounds.
Registering as a team costs $50, and registration can be completed online. The prize pool for the races is $2,000 each weekend.
Cook-Off Competition
Each carnival weekend offers a different cook-off event judged by local businesses and ticketed attendees. From wings to macaroni and cheese, there are plenty of culinary experiences at the carnival. Tickets are limited and can be purchased online in advance. The schedule is listed below.
- February 1: Chili
- February 8: BBQ
- February 15: Chowder
- February 22: Chicken Wings
- March 1: Macaroni and Cheese
Car Ice Races
Sanctioned car ice races are on Saturday, February 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drivers with over 40 years of experience driving on the ice will take to a challenging track across the frozen Lake George.
The Adirondack Motor Enthusiast Club will host the event, attracting motor enthusiasts and winter sports lovers. The races are ice-dependent, and spectator admission is free.
Motorcycle/ ATV Ice Races
The motorcycle and ATV ice races will be held on Saturday, February 15, and Sunday, February 16, from noon to 4 p.m. The American Motorcyclist Association has sanctioned these races, which test speed, skills, and maneuvers.
Jeep Duck Hunt
The third annual Duck Hunt is held on the carnival's opening weekend from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Teams will scavenge for rubber ducks hidden across Warren County for a chance to win a $500 cash prize and other giveaways.
Teams must register online in advance and pay a $25 registration fee to participate. The award ceremony for the Jeep Duck Hunt will be held at 5 p.m. at the Lake George Courtyard Marriott.
Polar Plunge
Every weekend, carnival attendees can test the freezing waters of Lake George with a polar plunge. Participants can dip in the lake from 3 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Registration is required and can be completed online before the plunges. The Polar Plunge became a carnival tradition in 1973, and participants should come prepared with warm, dry clothes to change into afterward.
Dog's Got Talent Contest
Furry four-legged friends are invited to unleash their talent for a panel of judges during the Dog's Got Talent Contest in the Shepard Park Amphitheater. The contest is every Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Local businesses have contributed to the contest by donating prizes. The prizes are awarded to the dog who gets the most applause for their showcased talents.
Horse and Carriage Rides
Every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m., carnival-goers can catch a ride on a horse and carriage for a stroll down Canada Street. The picturesque ride is $10 for adults and $5 for children.