The 5 Must-Visit Lake George Ice Bars Of 2025: Dates, Venues, And What To Expect
The Lake George Ice Bar season is officially the coolest event on the 2025 winter calendar, transforming the Adirondack region into a spectacular, frozen cocktail paradise. Starting the last weekend of January, this annual tradition draws thousands of visitors eager to sip specialty drinks from bars carved entirely out of massive blocks of ice. The 2025 season promises to be bigger and more dazzling than ever, with confirmed dates and venues ready for your itinerary.
Planning your trip now is essential, as these unique, ephemeral bars only last for a couple of weekends before they melt away. This guide provides the most current, up-to-date information for the 2025 season, including the main dates, the essential venues, and insider tips to make your Lake George winter escape unforgettable.
The Essential Lake George Ice Bar 2025 Itinerary: Dates and Venues
The Lake George Ice Bar season is a short but spectacular window of winter fun, typically running over the final two weekends of January. The ephemeral nature of these installations—which can weigh thousands of pounds—makes them a must-see event. The 2025 season is perfectly positioned to kick off the broader Lake George Winter Carnival festivities.
Key 2025 Ice Bar Dates:
- Weekend 1: Friday, January 24, 2025 – Saturday, January 25, 2025
- Weekend 2: Friday, January 31, 2025 – Saturday, February 1, 2025
While dates are subject to slight changes based on weather conditions, these two weekends are the confirmed core of the 2025 Ice Bar experience. Make sure to check the individual venue times, as some bars, like The Sagamore’s, run extended hours on Saturdays.
The 5 Must-Visit Ice Bar Venues of the 2025 Season
From the luxurious lakeside resort to the cozy, woodsy pub, each ice bar in the Lake George region offers a distinct atmosphere, unique ice sculptures, and signature cocktails. Here are the top five entities you need to have on your 2025 itinerary:
- The Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge at The Sagamore Resort (Bolton Landing)
- The Polar Ice Bar at Fort William Henry Hotel (Lake George Village)
- The Gem Ice Bar (Bolton Landing)
- Funky Ice Fest at Adirondack Pub & Brewery
- The Lagoon Ice Bar (Lake George Village)
- The Chili Cookoff: A highly competitive and delicious event held every Sunday.
- The Polar Plunge: A brave (and chilling) tradition where participants jump into the freezing Lake George waters.
- Outhouse Races: A bizarre and hilarious spectacle of homemade outhouses racing across the ice.
- Keg Toss & ATV/Snowmobile Races: Classic winter sports and competitions held on the frozen lake.
- Fireworks: Spectacular displays over the lake every Saturday night.
- Layers, Layers, Layers: Start with thermal base layers (wool or synthetic).
- Heavy Outerwear: A waterproof or water-resistant winter coat, snow pants (optional but recommended for long visits), a hat that covers your ears, and a scarf or neck gaiter.
- Footwear: Waterproof, insulated winter boots are a must. Avoid fashion boots.
- Hand Warmers: Essential for tucking into gloves and boots to keep your extremities comfortable while holding a cold drink.
- Book Accommodations Early: Hotels and resorts like the Fort William Henry Hotel and The Sagamore Resort fill up quickly for these two weekends. Look at lodging suggestions in Lake George Village or nearby Bolton Landing.
- Consider Igloo Dining: Many venues offer heated igloo dining or outdoor fire pits as a way to warm up and extend your stay. Look for restaurants offering this hybrid experience.
- Transportation: If you plan to visit multiple ice bars, arrange for a designated driver or use local transportation services, as the venues are spread between Lake George Village and Bolton Landing.
- Cash/Credit: While most venues accept credit cards, having cash on hand can speed up service at the ice bars themselves.
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Widely considered the most luxurious and "swanky" ice bar experience, The Sagamore Resort transforms its lakeside patio into a frozen wonderland. The Glacier Ice Bar is a masterpiece of ice artistry, often featuring multiple bars, intricate ice sculptures, and stunning views of Lake George. It is famous for its signature ice shot luges and shot glasses carved entirely from ice. This is a high-end experience that requires appropriate winter attire but promises unparalleled photo opportunities.
Located right in Lake George Village, the Polar Ice Bar is a perennial favorite at the historic Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center. This bar typically features massive ice sculptures, specialty winter-themed drinks, and a lively atmosphere complete with live music and cozy fire pits. Its central location makes it an easy stop for those staying in the main village area and a great place to start your ice bar crawl.
A charming alternative to the grand resort scene, The Gem in Bolton Landing hosts its annual ice bar with a distinct woodsy, Adirondacks-inspired feel. Known for its world-class food and exceptional cocktail program, The Gem Ice Bar focuses on craft cocktails and a more intimate atmosphere, complemented by beautiful ice sculptures. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a sophisticated yet rustic winter cocktail experience.
For a more casual and high-energy atmosphere, the Funky Ice Fest is a local favorite. Hosted by the Adirondack Pub & Brewery, this event is known for its creative ice sculptures, craft beers, and a true party vibe. It’s an essential stop for visitors who want to sample local Adirondack beverages alongside their frozen fun.
The Lagoon Ice Bar is often open during the Lake George Winter Carnival weekends, providing another central location for a frosty beverage. While details can vary, it is a reliable stop for those enjoying the broader winter activities in the village and looking for a classic ice bar setup.
Maximize Your Lake George Winter Experience: Beyond the Ice Bars
The Ice Bar season is just the beginning of the winter fun in the Lake George region. By planning your visit to coincide with the Ice Bars, you can easily experience the area's other major winter attractions, creating a full-fledged winter getaway.
The Lake George Winter Carnival 2025
The Lake George Winter Carnival is the area's main winter event, and it runs every weekend in February 2025, starting the weekend immediately following the core Ice Bar dates (February 1 – March 2, 2025). This means the second Ice Bar weekend (Jan 31-Feb 1) is the perfect transition into the carnival’s opening weekend. The carnival offers a packed schedule of quirky, fun, and traditional winter events:
Combining the sophistication of the Glacier Ice Bar with the fun of the Outhouse Races provides the perfect balance for a memorable trip to the Adirondacks.
Essential Tips for a Perfect 2025 Ice Bar Visit
Visiting an ice bar is a unique experience, but it requires some practical planning. The average temperature in Lake George during late January is well below freezing, so being prepared is key to enjoying the atmosphere and the creative specialty cocktails.
What to Wear: The Ice Bar Survival Guide
The biggest mistake visitors make is underestimating the cold. Since the bars are entirely outdoors, proper attire is non-negotiable. Think of it as a casual winter hike, not a night out at a city bar. Here is your essential packing list:
Logistics and Planning
Since the season is so short, the Ice Bars draw large crowds, especially on Saturday evenings. Planning ahead can save you time and frustration:
The Lake George Ice Bars are a true winter spectacle, combining high-end artistry with Adirondack fun. By using this 2025 guide, you’ll be prepared to embrace the chill and enjoy one of the most unique winter events in New York State.
