In the Adirondacks and the Whiteface area in particular, winter is an extra special kind of playtime. The canoes and kayaks, as much as we love them, have been packed away and with every snowflake that falls to the ground, we all get a little more excited for the fun of winter. This winter, come to the Whiteface region for special events and activities, après ski excellence, and more!

Ski like Santa

Although he's famous for riding a sleigh, it's a little-known fact that Santa Claus loves to ski. As part of Lake Placid's Holiday Village Stroll, Whiteface Mountain celebrates the holidays and the jolly man in the red suit. On Sunday, December 15, you can ski free at Whiteface, but there’s a catch. In order to receive a free lift ticket, you must arrive - and ski or ride - dressed as Santa or Mrs. Claus. It's a fun celebration of sport and holidays and you don't want to miss out.

Want to get in on the fun but don’t want to dress up? Arrive at the ticket booth with a donation of a new toy (valued at $10 or more) or new or gently used winter coat and get 50% off the cost of your lift ticket! You’ll get in some great festive skiing or riding and feel good for helping those in need.

Light up the holidays

Did you know that Santa, everyone's best friend in December, lives near Wilmington? Not only that, but you can visit him throughout the year! Come to Santa's Workshop at the North Pole, perched high up on the slopes near Whiteface Mountain, where you can eat freshly made fudge and cookies, pet eight fuzzy reindeer, and best of all, meet with jolly old Saint Nick himself.

Every year, Santa's Workshop offers extra special events: the charming Village of Lights, when the North Pole is lit by festive lights and special activities, plus Yuletide Family Weekends. These weekends include lodging packages for the whole family, unique activities and meals, and personal visits with Santa. It's a special way to celebrate the joy and spirit of the season, in a way your family will never forget.

An awesome après scene

You've spent the day skiing, snowshoeing, and seeing the sights. You're ready to relax in front of a fire and indulge in a hot drink and luxurious meal. The après ski (and everything else) scene in the Whiteface area is the perfect way to end an exciting, adventurous day of fun.

Stop by the Pourman's Tap House for an ever-growing craft beer selection and fabulous flatbreads. Our resident pizza expert and her family give it a bunch of thumbs way up!

Another favorite of locals and visitors alike is R.F. McDougall's Pub, located at the Hungry Trout Resort overlooking the Ausable River. Named one of the country's best fishing bars, this cozy pub has it all: good food, great stories, and a cozy atmosphere.

This winter, bring your sense of adventure and quest for a fun-filled season to the Whiteface region. We've got everything you need: Santa, snow, and chocolate!

Start planning your winter vacation by exploring perfect places to rest your head, where to eat, and our snowy activities!