The Tri-Lakes region is brimming with activities this Labor Day weekend, offering a variety of events that promise fun for all ages. From music festivals and a renowned car show to thrilling mountain biking and a grand parade, the holiday festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display.
Wilmington Mountain Bike Festival
Kicking off the weekend, the Wilmington Mountain Bike Festival returns for its seventh year from August 30 to September 1 at Wilmington Recreation Park. This event caters to bikers of all skill levels and features on-site camping, live music, local cuisine, and a range of activities including group trail rides and a kids’ mountain bike race.
The festival offers over 25 miles of single-track riding across Wilmington, Lake Placid, and Keene. It includes trails suitable for novices, intermediates, and advanced riders, with specific rides for youth and women. Participants can register online for a discounted rate or purchase tickets at the event. The festivities commence at Twisted Raven with a pig roast and Zero Gravity beer tasting, followed by live performances by Spring Street and St. Vith. Sunday’s activities will shift to the East Branch Community Trails in Keene, featuring various trails and relaxation spots.
All proceeds from the festival benefit the Barkeater Trails Alliance, supporting local trail maintenance and development.
Dmitry’s Feast of the Peaks and Music Festival
On August 31, the North Elba Show Grounds will host the inaugural Dmitry’s Feast of the Peaks and Music Festival, a tribute to the late Dmitry Feld and successor to the I Love BBQ and Music Festival. This event supports the Shipman Youth Center and features barbecue competitions, music, woodsmen’s contests, and professional wrestling.
Attendees can enjoy ribs, wings, and mac and cheese from various vendors, with public judging for the competition categories. The event includes performances by local musicians, family-friendly activities such as face painting and a bounce house, and a 50-50 raffle with a $10,000 grand prize. Gates open at 10:30 a.m., with no entry fee, though donations are encouraged.
Olympic Car Show
The 42nd annual Olympic Car Show returns to the Olympic Speedskating Oval on September 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event supports the Lake Placid Ski Club’s children’s ski programs and will feature over 100 cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Judging begins at noon, with awards presented at 4 p.m. The show will also include a DJ, various activities, and a barbecue by the Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12.
Northern Current Festival
Saranac Lake’s Riverside Park will host the Northern Current Festival on September 1, celebrating its fifth season. This free event features diverse musical performances, including headliners The Nude Party and Bella’s Bartok. The family-friendly festival will have a kid zone and a variety of food vendors. The event, held rain or shine, provides a tent for weather protection.
Labor Day Celebration
The annual AuSable Forks Labor Day Celebration begins with a parade at 1 p.m., showcasing over 50 participating organizations. Hosted by the town of Black Brook, the celebration at River Park features music, food, vendors, fire truck rides, and children’s activities from 3 to 8 p.m. The day concludes with fireworks at 8:10 p.m., best viewed from River Park.
For more information on these events, visit their respective websites. Enjoy a vibrant holiday weekend in the Tri-Lakes region!