No matter how old I get, the anticipation of summer makes me think of glowing pink evenings, playing all day, fireworks, soft breezes, hot dogs, and most of all, extra time with family and friends. Summer in Saranac Lake is an ideal place to savor just such time, as the village takes advantage of the fine weather to host an array of wonderful outdoor events, from music to biking, running to art, all in an atmosphere of family fun and community togetherness.
Music on the Green
Summer events kick off on June 26 with the first Music on the Green concert. Held every Wednesday in July and August, Music on the Green is a wonderful way to spend an evening in the center of charming downtown. Bring a picnic dinner, bring the kids, and let the joyous sounds of summer wash over you. Dancing isn’t just allowed, it’s encouraged! Performers from a variety of musical genres will be at the Green this summer, ensuring there is something for almost every musical taste, from jazz to folk, and all kinds of sounds in between.
Third Thursday Art Walk
Every third Thursday in June, July, August, and September, from 5-7 p.m., the sidewalks of downtown become abundant with musicians, visual artists, craftspeople, and authors displaying their works and performing. Local businesses show their support by inviting artists to set up on their sidewalk or inside shops and restaurants, while galleries stay open late to welcome visitors. Not only do Art Walk visitors get to experience the great creative output from members of the community, they also get the unique and fun opportunity to interact with the artists and learn more about them and their craft.
Saranac Lake Street Fest
New to the streets of Saranac Lake is Street Fest, created by a group of enthusiastic volunteers looking to create a way to celebrate the decidedly different arts abundant in the area. To be held on Saturday, July 20 from 2 - 9 p.m., Street Fest will be something like a giant party, featuring music, art, street performers, family games, awesome local food, magic, and fun surprises that locals and visitors alike won't want to miss. Attendees will be encouraged to participate in the fun, and there will be plenty of opportunities for them to get actively involved in creating visual art and music.
Adirondack Plein Air Festival
Plein air painting became popular in the 19th century, when artists such as Paul Cezanne, Camille Pissarro, and Claude Monet began working in nature, rather than in the studio. During the Adirondack Plein Air Festival, which runs from August 12 - 17, you’ll find artists set up to paint outdoors throughout downtown, at the Paul Smith’s College VIC, Lake Clear, and scenic spots along the Saranac and AuSable rivers. Artists come from all over the U.S., Canada, and abroad to immerse themselves in the scenery of the Saranac Lake region, working in oil, watercolor, and pastels. The end of the festival is celebrated with a show and sale, where community members have the opportunity to view works created throughout the festival, as well as take home a recently created treasure.
Olga Memorial Footrace
For the more athletically minded, the Olga, now in its twenty-second year, has become a late summer local tradition, bringing together avid runners, joggers, walkers, and even families with kids. With all proceeds going toward programming at the Saranac Lake Youth Center and the Saranac Lake Rotary’s literacy program, the Olga is a popular way for locals and vacationers to enjoy a scenic run through the village, all while doing something incredibly positive for children in the community. Race participants may choose from a 5k walk or 5 and 10k runs. This year’s race will take place on Saturday, August 17, at 9 a.m., with bib distribution at 8 a.m. Registration is $20 per runner prior to the day of the race, with a $25 fee on race day.
Pat Stratton Memorial Bicycle Ride
Ever wanted to enjoy a bike ride in a scenic mountain village, surrounded by great scenery, and do it all for a good cause? If so, then the Stratton is for you. The ride has four levels: century (100 miles), 56 miles, 28 miles, and a free children’s ride. Race organizers pride themselves on providing great support for riders, with feed stations, portable toilets, and support and gear wagons. All rides begin and end at the ski lodge on Mount Pisgah and feature beautiful views on quiet backroads, as well as state roads. After the race, enjoy a barbecue lunch, raffle, music, and amazing homemade desserts. Event proceeds help support the Saranac Lake Kiwanis Club’s youth programs, including their bicycle rodeo. Active duty military and law enforcement officers receive free entry; for more information about registration rates, please visit our events page.
Northern Current
For years, one of the most enjoyable events of the summer was HoboFest, a celebration of American folk music and the romance of riding the rails. HoboFest ended after ten successful years, but a new group of music enthusiasts have put together what they see as its spiritual successor, Northern Current. A free festival-style event located in Riverside Park downtown on the shore of Lake Flower on Sunday, September 2 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the festival will showcase a range of music, including world, rock, and hip-hop, performed by musicians both local and from farther afield. The music will be accompanied by local food, a showcase of local art, and unique merchandise, a great way to cap off an eventful summer.
We're sure that however you choose to spend your quality time in Saranac Lake this summer, you'll create great memories. Looking for a place to stay during an event? Check out our lodging page to find the perfect place to make your summer day out a summer mini vacation! And don't forget to visit our local restaurants, where you're sure to find a tasty meal served with a friendly smile.
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