3 upstate winter festivals for cold weather fun

If there is one thing New York does very well, it’s offering a true four-season experience. When winter arrives, many places in the state are transformed into a sparkling wonderland, making them the perfect location for frozen fun. Dozens of towns across New York welcome snow and ice by hosting winter carnivals with entertainment, games, local goods and food. From Mayville to Lake George, keep reading to see where you can live out your “Frozen” dreams at these winter festivals.

Mayville Winter Festival

Where: Lakeside Park, 50 W. Lake Rd., Mayville (about seven hours from Long Island)

When: Feb. 13-15

Cost: $10 parking pass per vehicle, per day; free to walk in

The Mayville Winter Festival, also known as The Mayville Winterfest, happens on the shores of Chautauqua Lake. The weekend is packed with family-friendly events, food trucks and warming fires as guests shop locally and experience all that Mayville has to offer.

“The festival itself is a huge community draw, and we see at least 10,000 patrons from all states who come to visit, but there’s nothing like the ice castle around here,” said Sorena Gilkinson, chair, president and co-founder of the nonprofit Inspire Good of WNY NYC Inc. “Blocks of ice for the castle are taken right from the lake. It’s really a sight to behold.”

Unique events, such as ice bowling and a cornhole tournament, are new to the festival this year, but favorites like Connect Four, a basketball tournament, the kids zone, live music and fireworks are back. Proceeds from the festival are split among the town’s volunteer organizations. Next year’s event is set to be even bigger, as the festival will celebrate 40 years in 2027. Visit tourchautauqua.com/events/mayville-winter-festival for more information.

Brant Lake Winter Carnival

Where: Jimbo’s Club at the Point, 7201 State Rte. 8, Brant Lake (about four hours from Long Island)

When: Feb. 14

Cost: Free

About a 4.5-hour drive from Long Island is where you will find the Brant Lake Winter Carnival. This event is made possible with the help of a small group of volunteers and members of the Tri-Lakes Business Alliance. Partake in a day of sporting events such as skating, curling, hockey, broomball, a human foosball competition and even outhouse races. The famous fry pan toss welcomes guests of all ages, and sledding is encouraged. At day’s end, guests are treated to a fireworks display around a bonfire. Food and beverages are provided by Jimbo’s Club at the Point. The carnival is ice-dependent, so it is best to check the forecast before planning your trip. For more information, visit trilakesalliance.com/events-activities/brant-lake-winter-carnival.

Lake George Winter Carnival

Where: Shepard Park Centennial Fountain, Canada Street, Lake George (about four hours from Long Island)

When: Feb. 7 through March 8

Cost: Free with additional charges for certain events

When the ice freezes over, the Village of Lake George gears up for its annual Lake George Winter Carnival. With events ranging from a weekly cook-off competition, helicopter rides on the ice and a polar plunge to ice fishing, glacier golf, an outhouse race, ATV runs and a Dogs’ Got Talent Show, there is no shortage of entertainment in this popular upstate region.

“The carnival is entirely volunteer-based, and our vendor offerings include ice cream sundaes, s’mores and a hot chocolate bar with a commemorative mug,” said Heather Bagshaw, tourism director for Warren County Tourism in the Lake George area. “And when the ice freezes over, that view is gorgeous.”

Still hungry? The weekly cook-off will feature a different menu item each week, and guests 21 and older can register to join and whip up a delicious dish. The titles for best chili, BBQ, chowder, chicken wings and mac-and-cheese are all up for grabs at the 64th annual festival. Be sure to keep an eye out for surprise pop-up events throughout the carnival. For more information, visit lakegeorgewintercarnival.com.