Top Holiday Events in Jackson Hole

Winter in Jackson Hole is the kind of magic you can feel.

Snow-covered peaks. Twinkling lights wrapped around elk antler arches. Powder mornings on the mountain and cozy nights by the fire.

From classic Christmas traditions and Santa sightings to sleigh rides, torchlight parades, holiday performances, and epic New Year’s fireworks, we've gathered the best ways to experience the holidays Jackson Hole style in 2025.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or just chasing winter adventure, Jackson Hole knows how to celebrate the season in a way that feels festive, rugged, and unforgettable.

Tree Lightings & Holiday Lights

Jackson Hole antler arch lit up with christmas lights at night in Jackson Hole WY

Town Square Tree Lighting

November 29, 2025 | 5–7 PM
Gather under the legendary elk antler arches as Jackson Hole flips the switch on the holiday season. Enjoy live music, warm drinks, and a visit from Santa as the giant tree lights up the square.

Holiday Lights All Season Long

Town Square stays glowing all winter. It's perfect for evening strolls, photos, or hot cocoa in hand after a day on the slopes. Don’t miss the arches at night… they’re pure Jackson Hole magic.

Visits with Santa

Santa doesn’t just sit in a chair here. He skis, trams, and rappels off mountains!

Santa on the Square

December 14–24, 2025 | 5–7 PM
Kids can meet Santa, sip hot chocolate, drop letters in his mailbox, and soak in the small-town holiday charm right in Town Square.

Santa propelling from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Tram in Jackson Hole WY
Credit: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Santa Rappelling from the Tram – Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

December 24, 2025 | 4:30 PM
Only in Jackson Hole does Santa rappel from a 100-foot aerial tram. Crowds gather at the base area for one of the most iconic Christmas Eve moments in town.

Santa Skating & Lift Rides

Village Commons Rink – December 24 | 3–4 PM
Snow King Mountain – December 25 | 9–11 AM
Santa swaps his sleigh for ski boots and ice skates. Catch him playing on the mountain like a true local.

Shop Local: Markets, Boutiques & Festive Events

People shopping at a vendor tent at the art fair in Jackson Hole
Credit: Photo courtesy of Visit Jackson Hole

Holiday Bazaar

Typically first weekend in December 9 AM–4 PM
At the Jackson Hole Conference Center, local artisans fill the space with ceramics, jewelry, textiles, decor, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Winter Windfall

Running from Black Friday through December 22, 2025
Shop local and get rewarded! This community program gives shoppers the chance to win $1,000+ in local shopping dollars.

Small Business Saturdays

Saturday after Thanksgiving | 1–4 PM
Stroll Town Square boutiques, meet makers, and grab gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

New Year’s Eve: Torchlight Parades & Fireworks

This is a Jackson Hole tradition you cannot miss.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Torchlight Parade

December 31, 2025 | Evening
Skiers snake down the mountain with fiery torches as fireworks light up the sky. It’s dramatic, dazzling, and pure mountain magic.

fireworks fill the night sky as red light streaks down the mountain in Jackson Hole, WY during a NYE torchlight parade

Snow King Mountain Torchlight Parade & Fireworks

December 31, 2025 | Evening
Right in town, Snow King hosts its own torchlight run and fireworks display—easily walkable from downtown.

Only-in-Jackson Winter Experiences

National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides

Mid-December 2025 – April 2026 (weather dependent)
Get up close to massive elk herds on a horse-drawn sleigh through snowy wilderness. Guides share wildlife facts as you glide through this unreal winter landscape.

Night Skiing at Snow King Mountain

Carve turns under the lights with stunning views of town glowing below. Night skiing in Jackson Hole is a must-do for thrill seekers.

Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing

Explore snowy trails in Grand Teton National Park or along the valley. Perfect for slower-paced adventure with epic views.

Après-Ski & Cozy Hangouts

Live music, hot toddies, outdoor firepits—Jackson Hole après is an event in itself. Local favorites rotate specials all season long.

Plan Your Winter Getaway

Holiday magic hits different in Jackson Hole. One minute you’re watching Santa rappel off a tram. The next, you’re gliding past a herd of elk or cheering on torchlight skiers as fireworks explode overhead.

When you're ready to warm up and recharge, Townsquare Inns has you covered. With four centrally located hotels just steps from Town Square, Snow King, shopping, dining, and shuttle access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort where you’ll be right in the heart of every festive moment.

Book your stay, pack your layers, and come experience the holidays Jackson Hole style.

About the Author

Town Square Inns

We love Jackson Hole; it is our home and our passion. Come and share in this remarkable valley with its beauty and serenity. Hike in Grand Teton National Park, ski at Jackson Hole, or enjoy the unique, historic town of Jackson.