As snow begins to fall and the Tetons turn white, the best time of year has arrived in the West. The holidays are upon us, and with them come the sparkle of lights across town, the first turns of ski season and unmatched winter fun. Across Jackson, Teton Valley and Star Valley, this season shines with community celebrations, cozy gatherings and pure mountain joy.
Here are some of our favorite ways to experience the holidays with the community.
Local Tradition
November 29 – December 20 (Weekends): Shop Local Holiday Weekends: Cookies & Cocoa
Each weekend offers the perfect excuse to slow down and savor the season while supporting Jackson’s small businesses. Sip on free hot cocoa, find one-of-a-kind gifts and celebrate the people who make this community shine.
December 4: Wort Plaza Holiday Street Lighting Party
Downtown celebrations begin with the Wort Plaza Holiday Street Lighting Party, kicking off the season with glowing lights and community cheer.
December 5: Star Valley Ranch Tree Lighting Ceremony
Enjoy sweet treats as the town of Star Valley lights up at Town Hall, and listen to the high school choir sing carols to help get you in the holiday spirit.
December 5: Downtown Driggs Tree Lighting & Candlelight Caroling
Across the pass, winter festivities commence in Driggs with a festive tree lighting and community caroling.
December 5 – 6: Star Valley Festival of Trees and Gingerbread House Contest
Showcase your gingerbread house-making skills at this fun weekend contest, taking place at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds. Participate in this charity event to support local food banks while meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Week Leading Up to Christmas: Santa on the Square
Under the elk antler arches, Santa arrives to greet families, take photos and hear children’s Christmas wishes as the Square lights up with holiday magic.
January 19 – 24, 2026: Driggs Snowscapes
Creative wonder continues the celebrations through the new year, as artists transform snow into stunning sculptures that bring the downtown plaza to life.
Various Dates: Jackson Hole Moose Hockey Games
For a dose of community pride, nothing beats a night at the Snow King Sports & Events Center. The atmosphere is electric with fans cheering and live music, and once you’re feeling inspired, head to one of our few local ice rinks to throw your skates on and test your own hockey skills.
Mountain Adventures
December 19 – 31: WinterFest in Teton Village
The mountain transforms into a snowy stage for WinterFest, filled with family activities and live music. Spend the day skiing, watch Santa make his grand entrance as he drops from the Tram, or lace up for ice skating on the Commons Rink. When the day winds down, concerts at the Mangy Moose keep the energy high. From local acts to nationally touring musicians, the Moose is where après-ski turns into an all-out celebration.
December 20 – April 4: National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride
No winter is complete without a classic sleigh ride. Glide quietly through open fields surrounded by hundreds of elk while guides share stories of Jackson’s wild and wintery landscape. It’s a peaceful, timeless way to experience the valley’s natural beauty.
December 31: Torchlight Parades and Fireworks
Close out the year at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain or Grand Targhee with a dazzling Torchlight Parade and fireworks on New Year’s Eve. There’s no better way to experience the magic of the mountain than to see it lit up at night, surrounded by neighbors, family and friends.
Community Spirit
December 5 – 6: Art Association of Jackson Hole’s Holiday Bazaar
Artists fill the Center for the Arts with handmade ceramics, paintings, textiles and more. It’s the perfect way to shop local while connecting with the people who make Jackson’s art scene thrive.
December 10 – January 3: Christmas at the Playhouse
Take in a show at the Jackson Hole Playhouse, where dinner and a lively holiday performance bring warmth and laughter to a snowy night. The Playhouse’s blend of history, humor and western charm makes every performance unforgettable.
December 19: Winter Solstice Celebration at R Park
Celebrate the season’s stillness and mark the longest night of the year with lanterns, bonfires and storytelling that capture the essence of a Teton winter.
From parades and holiday bazaars to sleigh rides and ice skating under the stars, the Tetons come alive in winter. Every event, big or small, reflects what makes this valley so special: community, creativity and connection to nature.
So grab your coat, gather your loved ones and step out into the crisp mountain air. Whether you’re watching fireworks over the slopes or sipping cocoa downtown, you’ll find that the holidays here are fully embraced.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Keller Williams Jackson Hole and Teton Valley. Keep an eye out for one of our many agents at these fun events this winter season, and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed on all that’s happening in the valley. Here’s to another beautiful winter in our mountain home.
