Staff Report / January 26, 2026
Hammondsport NY – Community members gathered Saturday for the first‐ever Frost and Fire winter celebration, an afternoon of chili, activities and small-town spirit aimed at bringing warmth and connection to the heart of the Keuka Lake region.
Organized by the Greater Hammondsport Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with local sponsors and community groups, the event unfolded at the Hammondsport Fire Department, drawing families, neighbors, and visitors for a range of winter-themed festivities that ran into the late afternoon.
The centerpiece of the celebration was a chili cook-off, where local chefs and home cooks showcased their best recipes, inviting attendees to taste and cast votes for their favorites. Alongside the culinary competition, organizers offered a lineup of family-friendly activities designed to engage all ages despite chilly conditions.
Young attendees were treated to a dedicated kids’ corner featuring complimentary face painting and creative winter activities, while hot cocoa, popcorn and other seasonal refreshments helped guests stay cozy. An outdoor bonfire provided a gathering spot for visitors to socialize and enjoy the winter afternoon together.
Live music and vendor tables added to the festive atmosphere, with local artisans and community organizations showcasing crafts and products representative of the Finger Lakes region. Organizers said the mix of food, entertainment and hands-on fun helped create a sense of community celebration and offered a refreshing way to embrace winter’s slower pace.
Despite the cold temperatures typical of January in the Southern Tier, the inaugural Frost and Fire event saw steady participation and positive spirits. Officials say plans are in motion to build on the success of this year’s event with hopes that it will become a recurring highlight of Hammondsport’s winter calendar
