For those ready to chase snowflakes and nostalgia, the Champlain Valley is serving up the holiday feels with a twist of outdoor fun. Over in Charlotte, VT, the iconic Adirondack Sleigh Rides are in full swing, taking families and couples through peaceful, snowy trails with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. This one’s pure Vermont charm—don’t forget to bring a thermos of cider!

Feeling adventurous? Head to Northwoods Forest Trails in East Charleston, VT, where the Snowshoe Under the Stars Tour takes you through peaceful wooded paths illuminated by moonlight. Guided by local naturalists, the trek ends with a cozy bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and sip hot cocoa.

No holiday adventure is complete without a treat, so swing by Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington to grab a box of their new gingerbread chocolate truffles. Or, for a true hidden gem, check out The Nordic Nest in Middlebury for Scandinavian holiday pastries like krumkake and rosettes.

From snowy escapades to sweet indulgences, the Champlain Valley is an open invitation to celebrate the season in style. Pack your mittens, rally your crew, and make this holiday week one to remember!

The holiday season is lighting up the Champlain Valley like never before. This week, Burlington’s Festival of Lights is giving locals and visitors a reason to bundle up and hit the town. Wander through a winter wonderland of glittering light displays while sipping on hot cocoa from local faves like Speeder & Earl’s Coffee or Kru Coffee Collective.

If you’re feeling the need to stretch your legs, head to the outdoor ice rink at The Skating Oval in Plattsburgh, NY. This rink, located just across Lake Champlain, offers open skate sessions under the winter sky, making it a favorite for families and friends. Bring your skates or rent a pair for a truly magical experience close to home.

After the ice, don’t miss the Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum on December 23rd. It’s the perfect spot to grab locally-made gifts like hand-poured candles, wool scarves, and even small-batch maple liqueurs.

What could be better than a week filled with holiday vibes and a bit of fresh Champlain Valley air? Be sure to tag your adventures with #ChamplainHolidayGlow—this week is all about embracing local magic.

Continuing it’s 50-year run, the guesses continue to roll in on when the ice is out in the Northeast Kingdom’s Joe’s Pond. Last year, over 11,000 tickets were sold. Despite the warm weather, the ice is holding strong. Ticket sales continue to be brisk.

READ MORE ABOUT THIS 50-YEAR TRADITION COURTESTY OF WPTZ HERE

Snowblowers rev as volunteers lift blocks of ice used to make the bricks for the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Ice Palace. This year’s Winter Carnival takes place February 2 – 11. For more information visit https://saranaclakewintercarnival.com

SEE THE FULL ARTICLE FROM THE PRESS REPUBLICAN AND MORE PICTURES FROM JACK LADUKE HERE

Jackson Lewis Rodriguez, a 13-year-old from Rouses Point, New York, was granted his wish in December 2022 to practice with the Anaheim Ducks, a professional hockey team in the National Hockey League. By sharing his story, Jackson was able to pay it forward by helping Make-a-Wish grant more wishes.

The Make-A-Wish chapter in Northern New York will continue accepting donations at the Champlain Centre until Saturday, Dec. 23. Read more courtesy of WPTZ:

MORE