Events for everyone

It goes without saying that summer in Lake Placid is thrilling. Surrounded by natural beauty and a downtown that takes the cake for charming main streets, the mountain village is stacked when it's playing host to some of the region’s most notable events. The massive Ironman Race aside, there is a bounty of events to partake in all season long, from book festivals and horse shows to lacrosse tournaments and Fourth of July celebrations (food of course makes a delicious pairing with most of these events). We’ve picked some of the highlights of the season for you to visit during your stay. 

Two cranes hold up a large American flag over a marathon route through town.

For the family

Fourth of July in Lake Placid

There’s nothing as classically Adirondack (or patriotic) as Lake Placid’s Fourth of July celebration. One of many gems this season, you’ll see Lake Placid come to life, with Main Street decorated for the occasion, and visitors from far and wide coming together to celebrate America’s independence in an all-American town. 

The festivities fully kick off with Live music in Mid’s Park from 1-4 p.m., with Bluegrass Music with “Nubble”. At 5 p.m., hit the sidewalk and watch the Fourth of July Gala parade, with floats and appearances from civic groups, businesses, and local individuals; the parade has grown into quite the crowd pleaser. At 7 p.m. after the roar of the parade, grab a blanket and head back to Mid’s Park for a performance by the Lake Placid Sinfonietta, completely free! 

For the grand finale, keep your seat and witness the fireworks over Mirror Lake, Set the Night to Music. The fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m. and is choreographed to music. Hear the official soundtrack live on 93.3/102.1 - LAKEfm and 105.5/95.3 FM - Adirondack 105.

A young girl decorated in July 4th colors and ribbons rides a bike in a parade.

Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows

Let’s get one thing straight; Lake Placid loves horses. Like, a lot. So much, in fact, that for two weeks out of every summer, equestrians and their beloved animals (up to 1,000 horses) come to Lake Placid for both the Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows at the expansive Horse Show Grounds; right in the shadow of the Olympic Ski Jumps. 

Watch as world-class riders and horses vie for more than $550,000 in prize money and awards in championship Hunter and Jumper competitions. Show days are no joke, starting bright and early at 8 a.m. and continuing, with five separate rings running simultaneously, until approximately 5 p.m. You may even catch some potential and former Olympians in the ranks, with many riders choosing to partake in the event to prep for the upcoming Summer Olympics! Spectators can visit local vendors and food options, walk the stables, and tuck in for a day of premiere horsemanship with an incredible backdrop of the High Peaks surrounding you. 

A woman passes a horse jump while riding a black horse in a competition.

For the bookworms 

Adirondack Family Book Festival

Storytellers and avid readers unite in Lake Placid every summer for the Adirondack Family Book Festival, an awesome celebration of community, diversity, and storytelling in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. An illustrious and diverse group of children’s and YA authors and illustrators convene under a big tent and several smaller canopies 

Meet readers of all ages, read aloud, and talk about their work. Activities pair select books with the natural beauty of John Brown Farm and hands-on art-making and discovery are also planned. Browse and shop for books, talk with incredible authors, and partake in a read-along lunch!

For your competitive side

Lake Placid Marathon and Half Marathon

For an early-season race to kick off the start of summer, tie your laces, or park your lawn chair, and experience the Lake Placid Marathon and Half Marathon. Athletes from all over North America and abroad come to the race, including runners from more than 40 U.S. states as well as Canada, Bermuda, New Zealand, Panama, and Europe. With that kind of reach, registration fills up pretty quickly! This world-class race, set in the Olympic mountain village of Lake Placid, follows a course nestled in the beautiful High Peaks region of Upstate New York's Adirondack Mountains, the perfect setting for athletic competition. 

After the race, spectators and athletes can dine on food and celebrate as runners receive their awards. If you’re running, after the excitement head over to Lake Placid Pub and Brewery for your very own LP 26.2 Ale! The first one is on them with your mug and bib!

a large crowd of runners start the Lake Placid Marathon.

Lake Placid Summit Classic Lacrosse

The Lake Placid Summit Classic Lacrosse combines camaraderie and competition in an epic week-long event. What started as a modest 7-team field in 1990 playing 14 total games has exploded over 35 years, with more than 250 teams playing more than 550 games! The games are contested on 13 playing fields at three separate venues, the North Elba Athletic Fields, the Lake Placid Athletic Fields at the North Elba Horse Show Grounds, and the Northwood School Fields. Teams from all over the continent come to participate in this international tournament. The public is encouraged to get out and see some of the action; with admission and parking free, and food and beverages available at the North Elba Playing Fields venue. 

lacrosse players try to get the ball in front of High Peaks.

We’re booked!

When you’re not climbing High Peaks or sipping on a locally crafted IPA, explore the dazzling events that score the region all summer long. No matter the season, you’ll find an event that gives just a peek into the charm and culture of Lake Placid. Consider any of these events when booking your next stay!