Fundraiser to benefit Kringle Kottage, a new, inclusive Lake George holiday tradition

For children with sensory sensitivities, a visit with Santa can be overwhelming. Santa’s big chair is most often found in the center of noisy, bustling environments such as shopping malls and department stores. Roger Allan, the father of a neurodivergent adult son, recognized this last year when he portrayed Santa Claus in Lake George.

“Playing Santa last year opened my eyes to just how many families couldn’t comfortably experience the holiday magic in traditional settings,” Allan said in a press release. “As a parent, I know how important it is to offer a space that is safe, welcoming, and truly magical for everyone.”

This observation prompted Allan to design a less stressful holiday experience, one that would be accessible to all. Kringle Kottage, an initiative of the newly formed K Kringle Foundation, will meet the need for a specially tailored experience.

To support this project, Lake George Beach Club and Lake George Tiki Tours will be co-hosting a Deck the Dock fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 25, at Lake George Beach Club on Lower Montcalm Street. The event begins at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $65 per person and include shareable bites and small plates, a Tiki Tour boat ride, and raffles. 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. To purchase Deck the Dock tickets or make a direct donation, visit the K Kringle Foundation donation page.

What is Kringle Kottage?

Kringle Kottage will open on the grounds of Fort William Henry Hotel beginning the day after Thanksgiving. Santa’s Lake George home will feature frosted windows, dormers, a fireplace and a train suspended from the ceiling.

Families whose child or adult is on the spectrum can schedule a free, private, 15-minute visit with Santa ahead of time, which will avoid the stress of standing in line. Booking will open in the coming weeks at  kringlekottage.org.

The K Kringle Board of Directors is currently finalizing details regarding dates and times the Kottage will be open to the general public. A press release will be issued once the schedule is finalized.

During the reservation process, families and caretakers will fill out a short questionnaire to share the child’s or adult’s needs. This will allow the Kottage team to tailor the experience—adjusting lighting, music, and décor as needed—ensuring a sensory-friendly visit with Santa.

Outside of their appointment, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities and outdoor fires.  Hot drinks will be available for purchase. Santa and his elves will 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 says. “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.”