LAKE PLACID — The Feast of the Peaks returns to the Lake Placid Horse Show Grounds on Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., bringing together food, music, family entertainment, local businesses, and community spirit for an important cause.
The event is free to attend, offers free parking, and will be held rain or shine.
Organized by Elevation Planning & Events in partnership with the Board of the Shipman Youth Center, the annual fundraiser supports programs that provide local youth with a safe, welcoming place to learn, grow, and connect.
“This event is about so much more than spending a fun day in Lake Placid,” Michelle Preston, owner of Elevation Planning & Events, said. “The Shipman Youth Center provides an invaluable resource for local youth, giving them a place where they feel safe, supported, and connected. When I was given the opportunity to help organize this year’s event, I didn’t hesitate. Bringing our community together while raising funds for an organization that has such a meaningful impact on the lives of our youth is truly an honor.”
Originally founded as the I Love NY BBQ Fest by the late Dmitry Feld, the event continues today in his memory, carrying forward his passion for bringing the community together while supporting local youth. While the event has evolved over the years, its mission remains the same: creating an enjoyable community celebration while raising funds that directly benefit the Shipman Youth Center.
The center is a nonprofit community organization serving youth ages 10 to 18. Inspired by the vision of Lake Placid Youth Police Officer Thomas Shipman, who passed away unexpectedly in 1995, the center was built through the generosity of community donations, materials, and volunteer labor. Since opening its doors, the center has served hundreds of local youth by providing community service opportunities, recreational activities, occasional family-style dinners, and, most importantly, a supervised, safe, and welcoming place where young people can simply be themselves, build friendships, and develop as individuals.
This year’s event promises something for everyone with more than 50 local vendors, a variety of food trucks, live music, kids’ inflatables, carnival-style games, the popular Lena the Lizard Lady, an interactive USA Luge experience, and Common Roots Brewery serving a selection of refreshing beverages for adults. The Essex County Sheriff’s Office will also be on site offering Operation SAFE CHILD, providing free child identification cards for families.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds directly benefiting the Shipman Youth Center and its continued investment in local youth programming.
The event has raised thousands of dollars over the years thanks to the generosity of community sponsors and supporters. Organizers hope to continue growing that impact in 2026 and are actively seeking additional sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who want to invest in the future of the Lake Placid community.
Limited vendor spaces are still available, and organizers are actively seeking additional sponsors, volunteers, and community partners. Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event, making a private donation, volunteering, or becoming a vendor are encouraged to reach out.
For vendor information, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer inquiries, or private donations, contact feastofpeaks@gmail.com or Michelle@ElevationPlanningandEvents.com.
Follow Feast of the Peaks 2026 on Facebook for event updates, entertainment announcements, vendor spotlights, and additional information leading up to Aug. 8.