LAKE GEORGE, N.Y.—More than 1,600 young athletes will descend on Golden Goal Sports Park on Saturday, Oct. 18, for the fourth annual Northstars Cauldron Cup, a Halloween-themed soccer tournament that has become a fall tradition in the Lake George area.
Hosted by the Northstars Soccer Club of Syracuse, the 7v7 tournament will feature 110 youth teams from across the Northeast, New England, and Canada. Players ranging in age from seven to 14 will compete on turf fields under stadium lighting, with many games played “under the lights” as dusk sets in.
“The Cauldron Cup is more than just a soccer tournament—it’s an event that combines competition, family fun, and the unique atmosphere of the Lake George region,” says Gina Mintzer, executive director of the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We’re thrilled to welcome players, families, and coaches to experience our world-class facilities, stunning Adirondack backdrop, and the kind of festive, creative energy that makes this tournament truly stand out.”
The event is known for its spirited competition and Halloween fun, with activities including costume contests, pumpkin carving, face painting, a spooky photo booth, and seasonal treats like s’mores and hot cider. Food trucks, music, and local vendors will also be on-site.
Tournament director Todd Cook, who referees matches dressed as “Ted Lasso,” says the event balances high-level youth soccer with entertainment. “It’s the youth soccer equivalent of the Savannah Bananas or Harlem Globetrotters—competitive, but filled with laughter, creativity and unforgettable moments,” he says.
Last year’s tournament sold out, and organizers expect even larger crowds this year. Local businesses are invited to participate through sponsorships, with proceeds helping cover facility costs and support the tournament’s continued growth.
“This event is a wonderful example of how sports tourism enhances our region, drawing visitors who support local hotels, restaurants, and attractions while making memories they’ll cherish long after the final whistle,” Mintzer says.
For more information or sponsorship opportunities, visit northstarssoccerclub.com.
