To the editor:

As we reflect on the incredible success of the second annual North Country New Year, we are filled with gratitude and pride for the community effort that turned this celebration into a cherished Saranac Lake tradition. This year’s event was even bigger and better, showcasing the best of our region and creating lasting memories for all who attended.

First and foremost, we extend our deepest thanks to the amazing team of NCNY volunteers. Your time, energy and passion ensured the smooth execution of every aspect of the celebration. You are the heart of this event, and your dedication did not go unnoticed.

We are profoundly grateful to the town of Harrietstown, village of Saranac Lake, the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism. Your collaboration and support brought this vision to life and made North Country New Year a shining example of what a united community can achieve.

A special thank you goes to our generous sponsors: Explore Adirondack Frontier, ROOST and the Saranac Lake Rotary Foundation. Your unwavering commitment to our community fueled this event’s success and enriched the experience for everyone involved.

We are also deeply appreciative of The Belvedere Restaurant and CAVU Adirondack Cafe for their hospitality and generosity in feeding our performers and volunteers and providing delicious food and hot chocolate at the concessions. Your contributions added an extra layer of warmth and comfort to the evening.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Hotel Saranac and Best Western for being our lodging partners. Your support in hosting performers and visitors added to the seamless experience of this event and reflected the warmth and hospitality Saranac Lake is known for.

Our heartfelt thanks to the venues that opened their doors and hearts to the festivities: ADK ArtRise, Adirondack Carousel, Dance Sanctuary, Historic Saranac Lake’s Laboratory Museum, Pendragon Theatre, Petrova Elementary School, Saranac Lake Civic Center, Saranac Lake’s First Methodist Church, Saranac Lake Free Library, St. Bernard’s Church, and Will Rogers. Your welcoming spaces made the event truly special and vibrant.

A standing ovation goes to the talented performers who brought magic to our stages. Your artistry and energy captivated audiences and created a festive atmosphere that will be remembered for years to come.

The growth and success of North Country New Year is a testament to the unity, generosity and spirit of Saranac Lake. This celebration was a true community effort, and the joy it brought to residents and visitors alike reminds us why this town is so extraordinary.

We look forward to building on this year’s achievements and making next year’s event even more spectacular. We are seeking committee volunteers! If you’d like to be a part of this event, please join the planning team that makes it possible. Fill out the North Country New Year Volunteer Form on the website northcountrynewyear.com.

Thank you for making North Country New Year a resounding success!

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Saranac Lake NCNY Committee

Peter Crowley

Christine Farah

Jordanna Mallach

Kenzie Marine

Aurora Pfaff

Beryl Szwed

Tori Vazquez