Winter in New York: LGBTQ+ Pride Celebrations, Ski Getaways and Holiday Magic
Winter in New York State offers LGBTQ+ travelers a magical mix of snowy adventures, festive celebrations and welcoming communities. From the exhilarating slopes of the Catskills and Adirondacks to the twinkling holiday markets and charming small towns of the Finger Lakes and Thousand Islands, the Empire State transforms into a winter wonderland filled with unforgettable experiences. Whether you're carving down the mountain during a Pride ski weekend, sipping cocktails at an après-ski celebration or strolling through a picturesque village illuminated with holiday lights, New York offers countless ways to embrace the season. With events that celebrate diversity, community and the spirit of the holidays, these winter getaways are perfect for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to make the most of the colder months.
Celebrate Pride on the Slopes
Catskills Pride Ski Weekend (Catskills): The beloved Pride event returns February 5 – 7, expanding into a three-day celebration across the Catskills region. Belleayre Mountain will remain at the center of the weekend, with Plattekill Mountain and Holiday Mountain joining the festivities for the first time. Programming will bring together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for skiing, snowboarding, entertainment and celebrations, including a Snow Your Pride Ski Run and Après Ski Tea Dance at Belleayre Mountain. Additional events and activities will take place throughout the Catskills during the weekend.
Adirondack Winter Pride Weekend (Adirondacks): The celebrated Pride event returns to Lake Placid March 5 – 7 for a three-day celebration of community, winter recreation and inclusion. The weekend will kick off with a welcome celebration in downtown Lake Placid, followed by opportunities to ski at Whiteface Mountain, attend an après-ski party, explore cross-country ski trails and skate on the historic Olympic Oval. Visitors can also experience Lake Placid’s shops, restaurants, Olympic venues and attractions throughout the weekend.
‘Tis the Season - Holiday Experiences
ROC Holiday Village (Finger Lakes): The eighth annual ROC Holiday Village returns to downtown Rochester November 27 – December 20, bringing a variety of activities and entertainment to the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy free outdoor ice skating and skate rentals, shop for treats and gifts in the Shopping Village, gather around outdoor fire pits and experience the Winter Igloo Village. Additional programming includes visits to Santa’s Workshop, crafts and activities for children, live entertainment and food and drinks at The Triple-O Lodge.
Clifton Springs Festival of Lights (Finger Lakes): Downtown Clifton Springs will welcome the holiday season with its annual Festival of Lights on December 4. The free celebration transforms the village’s Victorian-era downtown with horse-drawn wagon rides, visits with Santa, live music and entertainment, local shopping and dining specials and family-friendly activities.
Craft, Food & Wine Holiday Market (Thousand Islands-Seaway): The annual holiday market returns to Maxcy Hall at SUNY Potsdam on December 4 – 5 following a one-year hiatus. The two-day holiday shopping event will bring together more than 100 regional producers offering locally made crafts, artisanal foods and regional wines.
