Free Winter Fun for the Whole Family at Grafton Lakes State Park

If you’re someone who leans into winter instead of hiding from it, this one’s for you.

41st Annual Winter Festival

Grafton Lakes State Park and the Friends of Grafton Lakes State Park are hosting the 41st Annual Winter Festival on Saturday, January 17, 2026, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most fun ways to celebrate winter in Upstate New York.

The free, family-friendly event runs from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and according to the release, it features a mix of outdoor adventures and indoor activities, plus food vendors and exhibits.

So Much to Do

Outdoor activities include snowshoeing and kick-sled adventures, a horse-drawn wagon ride, the always-popular snow-bowling hill, a snowball toss, and even free snowmobile rides courtesy of the Grafton Trail Blazers.

Read More: Support Saratoga County Bakery in the National Greatest Baker Contest 

When it’s time to warm up, head inside to meet live animals from Uncharted Wild and birds of prey with NYS Rehabilitation Council President Kelly Martin.

Are You Brave Enough to Take the Plunge?

The day kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with the annual Polar Plunge, hosted by the Knights of Columbus, and there’s a prize for the silliest costume, so yes, start planning that January “beachwear.”

You can pre-register for the plunge here. 

If winter is your season,  or you just love a good excuse to get outside and have fun,  the Grafton Lakes Winter Festival is a can’t-miss Upstate tradition.