Lake Placid — The Olympic flame burns bright once again in Lake Placid.
As the world turns its attention to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the two-time host village of the Winter Games (1932 and 1980) will come alive this February with a month-long festival of Olympic-inspired events, youth programs and community celebrations.
From a nightly lighting of the iconic Olympic Center to interactive digital experiences and hometown watch parties, Lake Placid’s festivities aim to celebrate its legendary Olympic past, inspire the next generation of athletesand rally support for Team USA, including North Country competitors heading to Italy.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
— Lighting of the Olympic Center, Feb. 5-22: Watch Lake Placid’s Olympic Center transform nightly in displays of red, white and blue in honor of Team USA and the Olympic spirit.
— Empire State Winter Games, Feb. 5-8: New York’s largest multi-sport winter event returns with the Parade of Athletes, Turbo Twins extreme skating show, a ceremonial torch relay and rarely seen Olympic artifacts.
— Virtual Jersey Experience, Feb. 1-29: Step into a digital Team USA hockey jersey and snap an interactive photo at the Olympic Center.
— Community Viewing Parties, Feb. 6-22: Cheer on Olympians at public viewing zones featuring live coverage, medal trackers, fan contests and local athlete spotlights.
— Lake Placid Olympic Museum Programs: Explore “Moments in Time” pop-up exhibits, hands-on art projects, memorabilia displays and the Dream Wall, celebrating Olympic values and hometown heroes.
— Public Skating and Themed Nights: Glide across the historic Olympic Oval, meet accomplished Olympians and join themed skating sessions led by local coaches.
“Lake Placid isn’t just celebrating the games, we’re celebrating our enduring Olympic legacy,” Darcy Norfolk Rowe, Olympic Authority spokesperson, said in a press release. “The spirit of 1932 and 1980 lives on here every winter, and this February, we’ll share that excitement with visitors and fans from around the world.”
For complete schedules, event details and ticketing information, visit lakeplacidlegacysites.com/olympiccelebration/.
