Winter fun in Western New York usually involves winter sports and snowmobiling. In addition, there are plenty of wonderful events and festivals in January and February that celebrate the best parts of winter in the Chautauqua Lake Erie Region.
Sleigh Rides at Chautauqua Institution - Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Chautauqua Institution grounds during winter while on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Sleigh rides run on Saturdays and Sundays starting January 4th and run through the last weekend of February, weather permitting. Rides start at 1pm and depart every half hour from the parking lot near the Chautauqua Bookstore. Tickets available at the Chautauqua Bookstore after noon on the day of the ride.
Winter Family Fun Day at the Camp at Findley - Head to the Camp at Findley on January 19th for their Winter Family Fun Day. Enjoy sledding, a hot cocoa bar, cookies and a snowman building contest.
Winter Festival at the Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House: Enjoy a day packed with winter fun at the Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House for their annual winter festival on January 25th. This year's festival features live music, a Christmas tree bonfire and outdoor vendors as well as food and drink specials.
Doors Open Jamestown - Come in from the cold and enjoy free admission to museums and attractions in Jamestown on January 25th from 10:00am - 4:00pm. Stay tuned for a full list of participating locations.
Fire & Ice Celebration - Experience an outdoor winter wonderland of breathtaking ice sculptures, martini luges and more at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel on February 13th - 15th. Head inside for music and light bites. Top of the night with fireworks. Tickets required and sell out quickly.
President's Day Weekend Winter Festival - Mayville's Annual President's Day Weekend Winter Festival is back for 2025. Head to Lakeside Park on February 14th and 15th for all kinds of winter fun and a spectacular fireworks display. Stay tuned for more details.
Wine & Chocolate Month - Weekends throughout the month of February, celebrate wine and chocolate pairings with Lake Erie Wine Country. Participating wineries showcase their wines paired with a delicious chocolate treat. Ticket purchases required.
Check out our website’s event calendar for a full list of upcoming events.