A Lake Placid Holiday, From First Lights to New Year’s Eve

The holidays in Lake Placid feel like something out of a winter storybook. Snow softens the mountains, Main Street glows with lights, and the season invites you to slow down and savor what makes this time of year special. From festive village traditions to cozy nights back at High Peaks Resort, this guide rounds up the best ways to celebrate the holidays in Lake Placid, whether you are looking to fill every day with adventure or simply enjoy being together somewhere beautiful.

The Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll — A Weekend of Twinkling Magic

Picture this: snow-crisp air, warmly lit storefronts, delighted laughter around every corner, and the charm of a small mountain village doing holiday right. The Holiday Village Stroll transforms Lake Placid, NY, into a festive wonder, and it’s happening this weekend, Dec. 12–14, 2025. 

What’s Happening

Over the three days of the Stroll, you can wander Main Street on a scavenger hunt (watch for hidden holiday symbols in decorated windows), vote for your favorite decked-out shop in the townwide decorating contest, sip something warm, and soak in that Adirondack winter glow.

On Friday evening, kick things off with a free skating party at the historic 1932 Rink in the Lake Placid Olympic Center — ice, twinkle lights, possibly a surprise visit from Santa, and free skate rentals to boot. 

Saturday bursts with holiday cheer: crafts, cookie-and-cocoa stands, Santa photos in the park, and a tree lighting ceremony to warm hearts. If you’re feeling energetic, join the Jingle Bell Run around Mirror Lake a bit earlier in the day.

Sunday rounds it out with outdoor fun (yes — skiing at Whiteface Mountain in a Santa suit for free!), a screening of a holiday classic at the local theatre, and cozy cookies and cocoa at nearby inns.

Why It’s a Perfect Pair with a Stay at High Peaks Resort

Staying at High Peaks Resort during the Stroll means you’re just moments away from all the magic. After you stroll through softly lit streets, enjoy hot chocolate under twinkling lights, or lace up your skates, you return to a tranquil, cozy retreat where the holiday décor glows, and the mountain stillness welcomes you in.

For families, couples, or friend groups, this mix of activity and calm makes the weekend feel like a curated holiday memory, as though Lake Placid and High Peaks conspired to wrap joy and rest around you. When you’re done chasing Santas and lights, your room awaits by Mirror Lake, warm and peaceful.

Holiday Dinner Specials at Dancing Bears Restaurant

Holiday evenings in Lake Placid pair perfectly with dinner at Dancing Bears Restaurant. Throughout the season, the menu features special dishes created just for winter nights, offering comforting flavors with a celebratory touch.

Seasonal highlights include butternut squash soup, braised short rib with cheese grits, duck breast finished with an orange-honey glaze, pan-seared sea bass with saffron risotto, and grilled favorites such as an 18-oz porterhouse, French lamb chops, and frenched venison chops. It is the kind of menu that makes choosing one dish the most challenging part of the night.

Located right at High Peaks Resort, Dancing Bears is an easy and satisfying way to end a day of holiday exploring, with great food, warm energy, and no plans afterward except dessert or a leisurely walk back to your room.

Classic Winter Adventures in Lake Placid

Winter in Lake Placid invites you outside in the best possible way. Fresh snow, crisp air, and endless ways to enjoy the season make it easy to tailor each day to your energy level.

Quiet Trails, Snowy Views

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer a quieter way to explore the Adirondack winter landscape. These slower-paced adventures are perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to soak in the stillness of snow-covered trails and forest views without the rush.

Big Vert, Bigger Smiles

For those craving speed and elevation, downhill skiing at Whiteface Mountain delivers iconic Adirondack winter thrills. Known for its impressive vertical drop and sweeping mountain views, it is a must-do for skiers and riders visiting during the holidays.

After a day outside, returning to High Peaks Resort feels like part of the experience. Warm indoor pools, inviting common spaces, and the glow of holiday décor make coming back inside something to look forward to.

Holiday Traditions at High Peaks Resort

The holiday season at High Peaks Resort brings together festive programming and plenty of room to relax. The schedule is designed to feel welcoming rather than overwhelming, giving guests the freedom to join in or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

Festive Days Made Easy

Mornings and afternoons stay flexible with yoga sessions, snowshoe rentals available through Guest Services when conditions allow, and board games set out in the Lake House. As evening arrives, the resort settles into its holiday rhythm with s’mores on the Lake House Lawn, Cocktails in The Den, and nightly Family Movie Nights.

Beginning December 26, all stays also include complimentary admission to the Whiteface Club and Resort Nordic Center, adding another classic winter experience to your holiday stay.

Special Holiday Moments

Special activities pop up throughout the week, including Birds of Prey demonstrations, family painting classes with Jessie Furnia, and Breakfast with Santa at Dancing Bears Restaurant. The celebration builds through the week to a relaxed New Year’s Eve, making it easy to welcome the year ahead without leaving the property.

It is a holiday schedule made for choosing what matters most and letting the rest fall into place.

The holidays in Lake Placid are less about checking boxes and more about catching moments. A quiet morning with snow falling outside your window. The smell of a fire just before s’mores are ready. Laughter drifting through the lobby as families head off to movie night or back from the Village Stroll, cheeks pink from the cold.

High Peaks Resort makes those moments easy to find. And with the Sweet Holiday Stay package, there is just a little extra built in, the kind of thoughtful touch that turns a winter trip into something that feels intentional, warm, and worth lingering over.

If you are dreaming of a holiday that feels festive without feeling rushed, this is your sign. Come celebrate where winter slows down, traditions feel natural, and the season unfolds one good moment at a time.