2027 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Dates - February 5, 2027 - February 14, 2027!!

View a video of the 2025 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival - CLICK HERE

The 2027 Winter Carnival theme is WIZARDS AND DRAGONS! Check out all of the past themes as well, click here.

2027 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Dates - February 5, 2027 - February 14, 2027!!

Chili Cook-Off Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Whitbeck

Get Fired Up for the Chili Cook-Off! Kick off the 2026 Winter Carnival with a little heat! See the details on registration and "rules" below...

GET FIRED UP!
Kick off the 2026 Winter Carnival with a little heat! Before the Royalty is crowned and you dive into the legendary festivities of Opening Day (including our Opening Reception for the Carnival Chronicles Exhibit), join us for the ultimate community comfort-food showdown. Whether you’re a secret-recipe master or just someone who loves a good bowl of red, there’s a place for you at the table.

It’s the perfect way to fuel up and stay warm before heading over to the Coronation and the evening’s kick-off celebrations. Enjoy music by the talented Austin Petrashune while you're here.

Think your chili has what it takes to be the Carnival favorite? Bring a pot of your best recipe (meat, veggie, or "wild card") to share with the masses. Please register ahead of time by calling 518-562-9999.

Setup: Please arrive 30 minutes early with your chili in a heated slow cooker.

Bragging Rights: Winners will be crowned by popular vote and receive a prize!

The Testers (The Public): Not a cook? No problem! We need hungry locals and visitors to be the judges.