Lake Winnipesaukee Winter

17 Dec Lake Winnipesaukee Winter

The beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire is a popular vacation destination throughout all four seasons of the year. In the colder months, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, full of beautiful snow-covered scenery, activities and seasonal events.  Read on to learn about some of the incredible winter offerings within the Lakes Region.

Beveridge Ice Fest – The popular and unique ice beer fest is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 12pm – 3pm right on Lake Winnipesaukee’s 19-Mile Bay. With over thirty craft breweries using the ice underfoot as their stage, guests bundle up to taste a large variety of delicious brews and ciders. Pair the ice cold brews with live music and great food vendors onsite and this is an event you can’t miss out on.

Pond Hockey Classic – During the first week of February, Lake Winnipesaukee turns into Lake WinnipeHockey for the New England Pond Hockey Classic. This year will mark the 15^th annual event sponsored by Coors Light. From February 2^nd – 4^th, 2024 there will be over 500 hockey games played by more than 275 teams in Meredith, New Hampshire. The event is open to the public and spectators can enjoy cheering on the teams playing on 26 hockey rinks as well as take part in the onsite activity tents and enjoy live entertainment throughout the tournament weekend. We have a great Pond Hockey Promotional Package for players or spectators looking for tournament lodging. Enjoy 10% off accommodations and access to all Inn amenities including free breakfast and a four season outdoor hot tub overlooking the lake.

Ice Fishing Derby – Mark your calendars for the weekend of February 10 & 11. The Great Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby will be taking place where ice fishermen from all over compete for the grand prize of $15,000! The ice becomes a solid foundation for bobhouses of all shapes and sizes where anglers set up to fish for eligible prize-winning species including lake and rainbow trout, black crappie, cusk, pickerel and white and yellow perch. The top catches throughout the tournament are displayed on the wall of fame and the anticipated grand prize drawing takes place on Sunday. During the derby weekend there will be over 40 cash drawings, a free kid’s ice fishing clinic and multiple onsite vendors to check out. The ice fishing derby is considered one of New Hampshire’s most popular winter events and can be enjoyed by all, even if you do not fish. Be sure to check out our Ice Fishing Package for 15% off convenient lakeside lodging throughout the tournament!  

Sled Dog Championship – The Laconia World Championship Sled Dog Derby is traditionally held in mid-February with the very first race being held in 1929. The competition consists of multiple different divisions ranging from 1 dog races to multiple dogs where mushers of all ages guide their dogs throughout the city of Laconia, New Hampshire. Spectators are encouraged to cheer on the dog sled teams from multiple view points along the course as well as visit the staging area to take photos. The mission of the Lakes Region Sled Dog Club is to promote and produce sled dog racing within the Lakes Region of New Hampshire and what better way to do that than to witness and learn about the sport firsthand!