Fundraiser supports opening of Kringle Kottage

LAKE GEORGE | A fundraiser for the new Kringle Kottage, an inclusive alternative holiday experience for sensory sensitive adults and children, will take place at the Lake George Beach House Sept. 25. For many families, visiting Santa is a cherished holiday tradition. But for children and adults with sensory sensitivities, the bustling, noisy environments of malls and attractions can make that experience overwhelming. This holiday season, the newly formed K Kringle Foundation is changing that with the creation of the Kringle Kottage — a specially designed Christmas cabin where the magic of Santa will be accessible to all. The idea came from Roger Allan, who portrayed Santa in Lake George last year. As the father of a neurodivergent adult son, Allan witnessed how challenging it can be for families to find an environment that feels both comfortable and inclusive. "Playing Santa last year opened my eyes to just how many families couldn't comfortably experience the holiday magic in traditional settings," said Allan. "As a parent, I know how important it is to offer a space that is safe, welcoming, and truly magical for everyone." WHERE WONDER MEETS INCLUSION Set to open on the grounds of the Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center, the Kringle Kottage will be designed to look just like Santa's home-away-from-home. From frosted windows and roof dormers to a cozy fireplace and a ceiling-suspended train, every detail is meant to immerse guests in holiday wonder. Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, families can schedule private visits with Santa by booking online at kringlekottage.org (booking will be available soon). Each 15-minute appointment is crafted to create lasting memories while eliminating the stress of long lines. During the reservation process, families and caretakers will complete a short questionnaire to share the child's or adult's needs. This allows the Kottage team to tailor the experience—adjusting lighting, music, and décor as needed—ensuring a truly seamless, sensory-friendly visit with Santa. Outside of their appointment, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, outdoor fires, and hot drinks for purchase. Santa and his volunteer "elves" will also receive specialized training to best support neurodivergent guests, ensuring that every visitor feels seen, respected, and celebrated. "Our hope is that the community will rally behind this project and help us bring the Kringle Kottage to life," Allan said. "By joining us on September 25, or by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, you can be part of creating memories that will last a lifetime for children and adults who deserve this joy." "DECK THE DOCKS" To launch this initiative, the community is invited to join the Deck the Dock: Kringle Kottage Celebration on Thursday, Sept. 25, 6 - 9 p.m. at the Lake George Beach Club. The evening, co-hosted by Lake George Beach Club and Lake George Tiki Tours, will feature shareable bites and small plates, raffle prizes, and a complimentary Tiki Tour boat ride. Raffle items are sponsored through in-kind donations from 25 Silver Boutique and will include trending items such as jewelry, watches, handbags, Bogg bags, and accessories. Guests can also bid in a special auction for a private charter with Lake George Tiki Tours for up to 16 passengers (valued at $675!). Adding to the magic, Santa — founder of the K Kringle Foundation — will be on hand throughout the evening to mingle with guests, spread holiday cheer, and share the mission behind Kringle Kottage. In the spirit of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring non-shatter snow globes, which will be placed in Kringle Kottage for Santa's visitors to safely touch, explore, and enjoy throughout the holiday season. All proceeds from the event will directly support the construction and operation of the Kringle Kottage. EVENT DETAILS The Deck the Dock Kringle Kottage Celebration will take place at Lake George Beach Club, 3 Montcalm St. in Lake George. The cost is $65 per person, and includes food, raffle prizes, and a Tiki Tour boat ride, with a cash bar available. Proceeds will benefit the K Kringle Foundation and Kringle Kottage. For Tickets and more information, visit givebutter.com/wyGyL9. ABOUT K KRINGLE FOUNDATION K Kringle Foundation, Inc., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating inclusive, meaningful holiday experiences for all. Founded in 2025, the Foundation's mission is to ensure that children and adults—especially those who are neurodivergent or have special needs—can share in the joy of the season in a safe, welcoming, and sensory-friendly environment. Its flagship project, the Kringle Kottage, will open this holiday season in Lake George, offering appointment-based visits with Santa in a specially designed cabin that combines Christmas magic with accessibility. Guided by a board of local leaders and community advocates, the Foundation is committed to bringing families together and building traditions that celebrate the true spirit of the holidays. Learn more or donate at kringlekottage.org or follow along on Facebook at @kringlekottage.

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Fundraiser supports opening of Kringle Kottage

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