By Shane Svorec
Pack your bags and don’t forget your hats, boots, and gloves; we’re heading to “North Country.” Like a scene out of a Hallmark movie, Christmas music plays as the cold wind blows, and the season for cozy sweaters, flannels, and warm festive accessories has arrived.
If you want to add some magic to your holiday season, there are many destinations to choose from within the Winter Wonderland of the Adirondacks. The largest publicly protected area in the contiguous U.S., Adirondack Park, encompasses six million acres of “forever wild” land and features a unique mix of public and private properties. The majestic mountains, lakes, and trails are nature’s breathtaking gifts, offering stunning views, picturesque backdrops, and a variety of winter activities to make the holidays even more special.
Scattered across this vast region are 105 charming towns and quaint villages that proudly connect the park with welcoming customs and memorable experiences. With so much territory to explore, it’s nearly impossible to pick just one place to visit; however, if I had to list a few popular holiday destinations, these would be my choices.
Lake Placid, NY:
Lake Placid has been recognized as one of the most “Christmassy” places in America. You’ll find cozy shops and classic Christmas decorations, nestled among enchanting views of the mountains and Mirror Lake. With a higher chance of snow in this region, traditional winter activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides, dog sledding, skating, snowshoeing, and skiing, are all popular here. You can even bobsled down a real track at the Olympic Sports Complex! Cozy up by a fire, do some Christmas shopping, or enjoy a tasty bite and a warm drink as the snow falls. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to feel the spirit of Christmas.
* Don’t miss the Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll, an annual tradition held one weekend in December, filled with festive activities for all ages.
Glens Falls, NY:
Glens Falls is a charming streetlamp town that goes all out for the holidays. Featuring excellent restaurants, several popular breweries, and festive hometown holiday activities, Glens Falls hosts the Adirondack Holiday Festival, which runs from December 5-7.
Saratoga, NY:
Step back in time and experience Saratoga’s classic Victorian Street walk. Carolers dressed in Victorian-era costumes set the mood for a nostalgic holiday season with entertainment, elaborate holiday decorations, a Christmas Tree Lighting, and a visit to Santa and Mrs. Claus in their cottage, all free for everyone.
Christmas Is a Feeling:
The Adirondacks are full of special places worth visiting during Christmastime. More than just holiday wreaths and lights, when you reach “North Country,” you feel as if you’ve been transported to another era—a time when life was simpler, slower, and more meaningful. Here, the joy of the season is tangible. From beautiful, bright lights illuminating charming, snow-covered streets to colorful sights and cozy experiences begging to be savored, as Edna Ferber said, “Christmas isn’t a season. It’s a feeling.” It’s a reminder of all that’s good and possible when we slow down, take a moment to appreciate life’s simple pleasures, give more than we take, and cherish what we have instead of making lists of what we want.
As you head north, you’ll pass through towns that resemble Bedford Falls in the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life.” These small towns are some of my favorites, adding to the season’s authentic charm and holiday spirit. One of my personal favorites is a town that, for one weekend in December, transforms into a modern-day “Whoville” during “Christmas in Warrensburgh.” Exiting the Northway, you’ll even see a mountain peak that looks like the Grinch’s home. Here, they host nostalgic activities like Christmas caroling, cookie-and-candy walks, wreath-making, gingerbread housebuilding, a Christmas Tree Lighting, and, of course, Santa sightings.
You see, Christmas feels different in the Adirondacks, and that feeling lasts all season long. During the cold, tough months, the spirit of Christmas shines through as communities come together to share warmth through friendship, neighborly love, and acts of kindness. If you want to experience the magic of Christmas, consider visiting some of the places I mentioned earlier, but don’t forget to leave time for lesser-known destinations as well. You’ll feel the magic in small country stores and through friendly encounters with proud yet humble locals who are unpretentious and hold onto old-fashioned values.
If you’re looking to feel the Christmas spirit, I can point you in the right direction. Head north, where towns light up their streets, churches open their doors wide, and communities celebrate the gift of togetherness. It’s a place where you realize, like the Grinch, that Christmas doesn’t come from a store. No, up north, Christmas means a little more.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shane Svorec is a sales and marketing professional who followed her lifelong passion for writing, published her first book, and became an award-winning author. Her works include Broken Little Believer: Finding Purpose in All the Pretty Painful Pieces, The Busy Bridge That Got Its Break, and Acorn Adventures. An inspiring writer who captivates readers with vivid storytelling, uplifting messages, and a positive outlook, she finds peace in an old farmhouse she shares with her husband in the Adirondacks. Shane, also known as The Look Up Girl, loves nature and enjoys adventures with her family, which includes her three children and rescue pets.
