Jackson Hole Events: Spring to Fall

Spring is . . . well, if not in full bloom, then definitely deeply considering blooming. And here at Flat Creek Inn, we’re doing what we always do: gearing up for a season filled with adventure, local charm, breathtaking scenery, and probably lots of elk. From now through the fall, Jackson Hole is bursting with exciting events—think rodeos under the summer sky, vibrant art fairs, wildlife migrations, and crisp autumn hikes. (Heck, it’s bursting with exciting events after the fall too, but we’ll get to that later.) Read on to discover the Jackson Hole events you're most likely to want to check out.

Grand Teton facilities open, spring

Grand Teton National Park is always open, but certain key facilities and programs close for the winter. Here’s when they throw open their doors again:

• Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center: May 1
• The following roads: May 1
  • Teton Park Road, between Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain; open to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snow biking in the winter, opens early in April for walking and bicycle access
  • Moose Wilson Road, between Death Canyon Trailhead and Granite Canyon Trailhead
  • Antelope Flats Road
  • Signal Mountain Road
• Jenny Lake General Store: May 3
• Most Signal Mountain Lodge facilities: May 9
• Jackson Lake Lodge: May 16
• Chapel of the Transfiguration: open all year, but services start in June
• Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center: June 2
• Jackson Hole Aerial Tram: June 7

See the full list here.

Teton Powwow, May 3

Held at the Snow King Event Center, the Teton Powwow is a showcase of traditional and contemporary dance, music, and art. Expect dance competitions, hear the beats of renowned Native drum groups, and incredible handcrafted jewelry, beadwork, and artwork from Native artisans. And if you’re not into any of that, there will also be plenty of delicious Indigenous and local foods to enjoy. More info here.

Old West Days, May 16-26

Jackson Hole’s beloved Old West Days Festival is all about Western heritage, cowboy spirit, and the rich history that makes our town so special. Come sample the High Noon Chili Cookoff or the Old West Days Brewfest. Wander crowds of people wearing buckskin at the Mountain Man Rendezvous. It’s enough Western flair to make you consider trading in your sneakers for boots. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Wild West—the “wild” part is negotiable—this is your chance. Full list of events and more info here. 

ElkFest, May 17

If you’ve ever thought, You know what my house needs? A giant set of elk antlers, then ElkFest is for you. That’s when Jackson Town Square transforms into an open-air auction house where thousands of naturally shed antlers from the National Elk Refuge go up for grabs. The bidding starts at 10 am, but the fun kicks off at 7. Beyond scoring a one-of-a-kind centerpiece, your bids support a good cause: 25% of proceeds fund local Scouting programs, while the rest helps maintain the National Elk Refuge.

Jackson Hole Birding Festival, May 22-25

Out of all the Jackson Hole events on this list, this one has the most birds. The first annual Jackson Hole Birding Festival celebrates the wild beauty of the Jackson Hole Valley and the biodiversity of the Greater Yellowstone Region. If you have an affinity for our feathered friends, you can participate in tours, field excursions, speakers, educational opportunities, art shows, and more. Did you know we have more than 340 species in and around the valley? Yeah, this is bird-watching at its best. Whether you’re new to birding or a veteran birder (really? How did you become one, exactly?) this event will be an unforgettable experience! 

Jackson Hole Rodeo, Memorial Day to Labor Day

Sure, the OId West Days and the fair bring the rodeo to town, but here in Jackson, you can never get enough. This one lasts pretty much all summer—Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day at 8pm. More info here. 

Grand Teton Half Marathon and 5K, June 7

The Grand Teton Half Marathon is the perfect race if you love some scenic views with your misery. The course takes you over the Snake River and through peaceful pastures, all leading up to a grand finale: an epic, postcard-worthy view of the Teton range. There’s also a 5K if 13.1 sounds a little daunting. Sign up here. 

Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival, June 26-28

The Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival brings good food, great drinks, and fun vibes to Wyoming's mountain playground each year. Taste why Jackson has become a food and wine destination! With a lineup of elite nationally renowned chefs and sommeliers, there’s truly a taste for everyone. Tickets are already on sale and can be found here.

Independence Day festivities, July 4

Jackson Hole bursts with patriotic spirit every 4th of July, featuring a lively parade, rodeo events, and live music in Town Square and Teton Village. And don’t forget the shootout. As night falls, fireworks light up Snow King Mountain and Teton Village, casting a stunning glow over the Tetons. Check out the full lineup here!

Teton County Fair, July 19-27

The Teton County Fair is back the last full week of July, bringing all the essentials—carnival rides, 4-H animals, rodeos, dirt bike races, and, of course, enough deep-fried food to make you deeply regret your life choices. Get updates here. 

Fall Arts Festival, September 5-14

Every September, Jackson Hole gets all artsy for the Fall Arts Festival—ten days of Western, wildlife, and landscape art taking over town. Now in its 41st year, this is when local galleries turn into buzzing creative hubs. Bid on freshly created paintings at the QuickDraw. Enjoy wine-fueled gallery hopping at Palates & Palettes. Or just pretend you know the difference between “modern Western” and “traditional Western” art. Either way, it’s a great excuse to wander around town looking cultured. More info here. 

So, what will you be joining us for? Let us know in the comments. And make sure to choose Flat Creek Inn for your base camp while sampling all that Jackson Hole has to offer.

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Ryan Kunz is a copywriter and freelance writer who writes on a variety of topics, including media, the outdoors, and whatever else strikes his fancy. He really needs to go to Jackson. Breanne Kunz was raised in the Pacific Northwest but grew up spending summers in Idaho and frequently visiting Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. She is a wife and mom who likes to write and travel and wants to travel more. She loves Thanksgiving, and especially pumpkin pie.