Make the Games come alive!
The anticipation is building for athletes and families preparing for the 2026 Empire State Winter Games. From February 5-8, 2026, Lake Placid and its neighboring towns will transform into a winter sports hub. This long standing Olympic-style winter sporting event, welcoming all ages and abilities, also happens to be taking place during the beginning of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. It’s an exciting time to be in Lake Placid, a community with a strong Olympic spirit, having hosted the 1932 and 1980 Olympic Winter Games.
The Empire State Winter Games aren’t just for elite athletes; there are countless ways to get involved and experience the excitement firsthand. Whether you want to compete, try a new winter sport, cheer from the sidelines, or pitch in behind the scenes, here are five ways to be part of this year’s Empire State Winter Games:
Sports
Winter triathlon
If you’re looking for a unique winter challenge, the Winter Triathlon is for you! Introduced to the Empire State Winter Games sport family in 2024, this competition has returned and is bigger than ever as US Triathlon’s Winter Championship. Save the date for Friday, February 6, 2026, at Mt Van Hoevenberg. Take on a full triathlon (run, bike, ski), or try the new run-ski duathlon added for 2026. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want to experience multi-sport racing in the snow, this is your time to shine!
Bonus: If you register for the Winter-Tri or Winter-Duo, you will receive a 20% discount to register for an ESWG Cross-Country Skiing event.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing, a classic winter sport, is a staple in the Adirondack region, drawing both newcomers and seasoned skiers to some of the best Nordic trails around. Start off the weekend with a Friday night freestyle event under the lights at Dewey Mountain in Saranac Lake. The excitement continues at Mt Van Hoevenberg with a freestyle race on Saturday and a classic race on Sunday, giving you multiple chances to compete and experience the Empire State Winter Games vibe.
Ski orienteering
Ski orienteering, often called Ski-O, is a unique sport that blends cross-country skiing with map reading and navigation skills. Participants race across trails, using a map and compass to find a series of checkpoints in the fastest time possible. If you’re interested in fast-paced navigation, be sure to check out more information about ski orienteering in Lake Placid during the Empire State Winter Games.
Spectate
One of the best ways to experience the Empire State Winter Games is as a spectator. There’s nothing quite like the energy of cheering on athletes as they go for gold! You're invited to join the excitement of winter sports competitions, which are free to attend for locals, family members, and fans alike.
To make the most of your Games experience, be sure to check the official sports schedule before venturing out. With winter weather always a factor in the Adirondacks, event times and locations may shift, so staying up to date will help you catch all the action. Bundle up, grab some coffee or hot cocoa, and head to the sidelines to witness the action.
Volunteer
Want to play a more hands-on role in making the Games an unforgettable experience? There are many ways to support the action, from award presentations to course marshaling and athlete check-in, to lending a hand at aid stations. Be part of the energy and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this event special. Learn more and find available volunteer positions.