Jackson event calendar: a year in the Wild West

Jackson, WY blends rugged beauty with the adventurous spirit of the Wild West—and its event calendar does the same. Adrenaline-fueled rodeos, celebrations in the great outdoors, and world-class performances make this mountain town a year-round hub for entertainment, enrichment, and family fun.

Winter (December–February)

Pedigree Stage Stop RaceGet ready for serious family fun—and a hefty dose of cuteness—at this beloved Jackson tradition. The dog sled race kicks off with a ceremonial start in Town Square, where crowds gather to cheer as teams of mushers and their spirited dogs burst out of the chute and into the snowy wilderness. More than just a race, it’s a celebration of endurance, teamwork, and the unique bond between humans and their four-legged athletes. Bring the whole family—and your furry friends—to join in the excitement and cheer on these incredible teams. Town Square tree lighting & holiday festivitiesJackson Hole amps up the holiday magic, transforming its small-town charm into a full-blown winter wonderland. The celebration kicks off the day after Thanksgiving with the beloved Town Square Lighting Ceremony. Locals and visitors gather as the iconic elk antler arches glow, wrapped in thousands of twinkling lights. Carolers fill the air with song, Santa makes his rounds, and the square buzzes with festive energy. The season continues with holiday concerts, outdoor markets, sleigh rides, and ice skating under the stars. Don’t miss Santa rappelling from the tram, shopping at the Holiday Bazaar, or the annual Christmas show at the Jackson Hole Playhouse.

Spring (March–May)

Winter FestIf great food and drink are your idea of a winter sport, Winter Fest should be at the top of your Jackson itinerary. This three-day celebration, hosted by Jackson Hole Food & Wine, brings together local chefs, winemakers, and mixologists for an unforgettable culinary experience. Expect exclusive tastings, wine-paired dinners, après-ski cocktails, and intimate seminars that go beyond the plate. Whether you're here to sip, savor, or learn something new, Winter Fest is a flavorful way to dive into Jackson’s budding food scene. Tickets go fast, so be sure to book early.Old West Days FestivalEvery May, Jackson Hole hosts an iconic Western celebration that celebrates the history and culture of the American West. This 10-day festival brings the town’s cowboy spirit front and center with parades, rodeos, stagecoach rides, and the popular Town Square shootout reenactment. The energy is high, the boots are dusty, and the streets are buzzing. Fan favorite events include the ElkFest antler auction, the chili cook-off, and the Million Dollar Music Fest, where big-name bands light up Town Square in an unforgettable open-air concert. Add in live entertainment, local brews, and plenty of Western flair, and you've got a full dose of Jackson’s wild and wonderful heritage.Restaurant WeekWhile technically part of Old West Days, this springtime favorite for foodies is absolutely worthy of its own spotlight. Each May, more than 25 local restaurants roll out curated prix fixe menus that showcase the best of their seasonal offerings. It’s a delicious excuse to revisit your go-to spots or finally try that place you've had your eye on. From laid-back bistros to elevated dining rooms, it’s a week of great food, great ambiance, and a whole lot of local flavor. World Championship Snowmobile Hill ClimbEvery spring, the Jackson Hole Snow Devils host this high-octane event that’s been drawing crowds since 1975. The World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb brings top riders from across the country to Snow King Mountain to race straight up its steep, icy face. Thousands of fans gather at the base to cheer them on, cowbells ringing and drinks in hand. It’s not just a race—it’s a lively spring event, complete with beer gardens, food vendors, live music, and a town-wide buzz that carries late into the night. Gaper DayJackson’s annual April Fools’ tradition is equal parts hilarious and downright joyful. Gaper Day invites skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to hit the slopes in their wildest, wackiest costumes like neon retro gear, Speedos, tutus, and anything else that sparks laughter. It’s a playful celebration of the season’s end, where creativity and silliness rule the day. After shredding the mountain, the energy spills into town with fun-filled apres-ski antics at local bars, making Gaper Day one of Jackson’s most delightfully eccentric traditions.

Summer (June–August)

4th of July in Jackson HoleJackson Hole’s 4th of July celebration mixes classic Americana with authentic Western flair. The day kicks off with a joyous downtown parade with cowboys, marching bands, colorful floats, and local groups all showcasing community pride. In the afternoon, the Jackson Hole Rodeo brings the rugged frontier to life, followed by a dramatic Town Square shootout reenactment that’s pure Old West theater. As the sun sets, the sky lights up with a fireworks show framed by the towering Tetons—a fitting finale to a truly Jackson-style Independence Day. Grand Teton Music FestivalEvery summer, the Grand Teton Music Festival brings eight weeks of world-class music to the Wild West. From July through August, audiences enjoy a rich mix of orchestral, chamber, and solo performances featuring world-renowned musicians and guest artists. The festival’s classical repertoire comes alive in the stunning, all-wooden Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village, creating an experience that’s as inspiring as the music itself. Alongside evening concerts, the festival offers community events and family-friendly programs, making it a welcoming celebration of live music for all ages. Jackson Hole RodeoAn action-packed Western tradition, the Jackson Hole Rodeo lights up town twice a week all summer long. Every Wednesday and Saturday evening at the Teton County Fairgrounds, the rodeo showcases thrilling events like barrel racing, bronc riding, and roping—all against the stunning backdrop of a Tetons sunset. Watch seasoned pros and rising stars compete for the grand prize, and soak in the grit, skill, and showmanship that make this sport so iconic. Whether it’s your first rodeo or one of many, it’s a perfect way to spend an evening under the wide Wyoming sky.

Fall (September–November)

Jackson Hole MarathonHeld each September, the Jackson Hole Marathon offers one of the most scenic racecourses in the country. Runners wind through wide-open spaces and quiet roads, ultimately finishing at the base of the Teton Mountain Range in Teton Village—a breathtaking reward for the athletic feat. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, and relay options, welcoming runners of all levels. For those who like to celebrate their accomplishments in style, the post-race “Hobble” pub crawl adds a fun, local twist to the finish line festivities. Jackson Hole Fall Arts FestivalEvery fall, Jackson Hole turns into a living gallery for one of the nation’s top celebrations of Western, wildlife, and landscape art. Over 12 days, more than 50 events bring together acclaimed artists, collectors, and art lovers for an immersive experience. Galleries and venues across town offer curated exhibits, artist meet-and-greets, and other cultural events. Highlights include the QuickDraw and auction, where artists create original pieces in real time, the popular gallery walk, and the elegant Art Brunch. Whenever you visit Jackson, you’ll find experiences as bold and memorable as the Tetons themselves.

Jackson event calendar: a year in the Wild West

Winter (December–February)

Spring (March–May)

Summer (June–August)

Fall (September–November)

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