February 2nd Groundhog Day
February 2nd Groundhog Day: The Holiday We Ignore and the Movie That Gets Us Through WinterWhile folks in Punxsutawney will be gathering on February 2nd to see if Phil the Groundhog saw his shadow, the rest of us will be too busy shoveling sidewalks in Watertown,...
Chinese New Year
Lighting Up the Year: The Magic of Chinese New Year and What It Brings As the world stepped into the Chinese New Year on January 29, 2025, we welcomed the Year of the Snake, an animal celebrated for its mystery, wisdom, and transformative energy. The Snake is often...
January 1
First Day Hikes
(Statewide)
A popular New Year’s Day tradition featuring guided hikes at state parks such as Alleghany and Letchworth. For more details: parks.ny.gov
January 15 – 18
Adirondack International Film Festival (AIFF),
Glens Falls, NY
Indie films, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Website: https://www.adkfilmfestival.org
January 19 – 21
Winter Carnival at
Greek Peak, Cortland, NY
Skiing events, live music, and children’s activities. Website:https://www.greekpeak.net
January 25 – 26
Saratoga Winterfest, Saratoga Springs NY
Activities include ice sculpting, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a chili cook-off. Website: https://www.saratoga.com/winterfest
January 30-February 2
Buffalo Auto Show
Western New York’s premier new vehicle automotive event, showcases the latest cars, trucks, and SUVs. buffaloautoshow.com
January 31 – February 9
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, Saranac Lake,
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival has been a tradition since 1897. This long-standing tradition is a must-see. Famous Ice Palace and a themed parade. For more information go to their website: saranaclakewintercarnival.com
February 1 – 2
Lake George Winter Carnival (Adirondacks)
Outhouse Races, plus every Saturday and Sunday they have events including fireworks, polar plunges, and more. Go to: lakegeorgewintercarnival.com for more info.
February 8
Buffalo On Tap Beer Festival, Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Buffalo, NY
Sample craft beers from dozens of regional breweries. Website: buffalobeerfest.com
February 8 (rain date Feb. 9)
Governors Island Ice Sculpture Show, Governors Island
10 artists/artist teams will be paired with a professional ice carver from Okamoto Studio for the live event to carve their creations to life. Click the link below for the schedule of events. govisland.com/things-to-do/events/governors-island-winter-ice-sculpture-show
February 8
Ithaca Chili Cook-Off, Ithaca Commons, Ithaca,
Chili tastings from local restaurants and live entertainment. Website:
https://www.downtownithaca.com
February 13 – 23
Syracuse Winterfest
Human dogsled racing, fireworks, wing walk, wine tastings, and more. More info: syracusewinterfest.com
February 16
Peconic Bay Region Swap Meet, Peconic, NY
This event is a swap meet where enthusiasts can buy, sell, and trade automobile parts and automobilia.