Plan Your Perfect Winter Fest Weekend in Cazenovia ❄️

Winter in Cazenovia isn’t just a season — it’s a celebration. From cozy cups of cocoa to lantern-lit hikes, Winter Fest brings together outdoor adventure, community fun, and small-town charm you’ll remember long after the snow melts. This year’s fest runs February 5–8, and here’s your guide to making the most of every chilly moment. For a full list of events, CLICK HERE or visit www.cazenovia.com/winter

Oh, and CLICK HERE to check out all the photos from last year's event!

Thursday Night: Kickoff with a Craft Beer Dinner

Start your Winter Fest weekend on a delicious note. On Thursday evening, don’t miss the Grow Brewery Beer Pairing Dinner at The Brewster Inn, where seasonal brews perfectly pair with this 4-course tasting menu in a cozy lakeside setting.

Friday: Let the Festivities Begin

Medallion Hunt

Put your sleuthing skills to work! The 2026 Medallion Hunt drops its first clue on Thursday and continues all weekend — clues are posted daily on the Caz Life Facebook page and the first person to find the medallion wins $250. For rules, regulations, and all additional details, CLICK HERE. Sponsored By tomtaitrealestate.

Outdoor Ice Skating

Lace up your skates (bring your own) and glide on the Burton Street rink — weather permitting — open to everyone Friday. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Saturday: Peak Winter Fest Action

Morning Warm-Up: Pancake Breakfast

Fuel up with pancakes, sausage, and coffee at the Winter Fest Pancake Breakfast at the American Legion — a delicious, community-friendly start to your day. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Cocoa Crawl & Downtown Fun

Downtown shops come alive with the Cocoa Crawl on Saturday — but you’ll get a taste of that winter magic starting Friday too. Participating businesses offer complimentary hot cocoa, pop-ups, vendor demos, and more. It’s a great way to sip, shop, and explore local boutiques. For more information, CLICK HERE.

• Cozy Cocoa at By Kelly (4 Sullivan St.), plus special treats from Holland Farms Bakery available for purchase.

• Spicy Hot Pepper Cocoa at Cazenovia Artisans (39 Albany St.)

• Dark Chocolate Cherry Hot Cocoa at Cazenovia Jewelry (49 Albany St.)

• Hot Cocoa with Prunier Orange Liqueur (age 21+) at J.S. Hight & Sons Fine Wines and Spirits (58 Albany St.)

• Caramel Hot Cocoa at Ink & Paper (7 Lincklaen St.)

• Lavender Hot Cocoa at 20 I East (85 Albany St.) plus, an Alpaca Product Pop Up

• BONUS! Champagne & Cupcakes for their 2nd Year Anniversary at Decor & More CNY! (57 Albany St.)

Ice Sculpture Demonstration from The Ice Farm, sponsored by Cazenovia Jewelry in front of the canon at Memorial Park. For more information, CLICK HERE. Event is FREE and open to the public.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides at Lorenzo State Historic Site

There is nothing like gliding across the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh! No reservations are necessary, just show up. In case there is not enough snow, the starting location is subject to change, so please stay tuned to Caz Life Facebook, Instagram or website for details. New York Horse Magazine will be serving hot cocoa at Lorenzo’s South Cottage. For more information, CLICK HERE. Event is FREE and open to the public.

Lantern-Lit Snowshoe Hike

As dusk settles, join the lantern-lit snowshoe hike organized by the Cazenovia Preservation Foundation. Snowshoes are available to borrow (first-come, first-served) — or simply enjoy a winter hike if snow conditions are light.

Sunday: Wind Down & Enjoy

Snowshoe Sunday

If you’re up for one final outdoor adventure, join the Snowshoe Sunday organized by the Cazenovia Preservation Foundation — a free, family-friendly social snowshoe hike that invites you to explore local trails and warm up with friends.

Tips for a Seamless Winter Fest

Dress for the weather: Layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat are winter essentials.

Stay updated: Check Caz Life social channels for real-time event updates and weather notes.

Support local: Many events are hosted by local businesses — grab a cocoa, buy a gift, or enjoy a meal downtown!

Winter Fest isn’t just a weekend — it’s a celebration of community spirit, snowy wonder, and the delight of small-town winter life. With thoughtful planning and cozy layers, you’re set for a weekend you’ll be talking about until next year. 🌟