Celebrate the Best of the West

Mark your calendars and snag your tickets now — the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 44th annual Old West Days Festival, set to take place from May 16 to May 26, 2025. This 11-day event celebrates the rich Western heritage and culture of Jackson Hole, offering a wide variety of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and immersive experiences. It's a lineup of wild Western fun for all ages and interests, and certainly one that you don't want to miss!

"Old West Days is more than a festival—it's a journey through time that honors the traditions and pioneering spirit of Jackson Hole," said John Morgan, Director of Events & Communications of the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce. "We invite visitors and locals alike to join us in celebrating the unique heritage that defines our community."

Read on to discover some of the festival's distinctive highlights from top-shelf food and drink to toe-tapping music and exciting Western fun for all!

Restaurant Week

Every year, during Old West Days, Jackson Hole Restaurant Week showcases the best of our local culinary scene, offering a unique opportunity to attract new customers and engage with the community. Over the course of one week, 30 restaurants throughout Jackson and Teton Village will feature special prix fixe menus at discounted prices, highlighting their signature dishes. It's the perfect way to showcase your restaurant’s best offerings while drawing in both locals and visitors alike.

Mountain Man Rendezvous

Experience a trip back in time to the rugged era of the early 19th century American frontier during Old West Days. The heartbeat of the Rendezvous lies in its lively marketplace, where traders sell goods ranging from hand crafted knives to intricate beaded jewelry. Explorers of all ages can participate in hands-on activities like axe throwing, archery, and a special youth scavenger hunt each Saturday of the Rendezvous. 

Authentic canvas tents line the Teton County Fairgrounds, each housing skilled artisans and tradesmen demonstrating traditional crafts such as leatherworking, pottery, and fur trapping. The spirit of camaraderie is palpable as the Mountain Men clad in period attire share tales of mountain adventures and survival in the wilderness. History comes alive through interactive storytelling sessions and educational demonstrations on topics such as fur trading and fire building.

ElkFest

Elkfest is a weekend of activities built around the world-famous Jackson Hole Boy Scout Elk Antler Auction. It is an exciting time for celebrating nature, outdoor skills, hunting, and ecological education and awareness. The first Boy Scout Elk Antler Auction was in 1968. Since then the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce and partners have been building out the festivities every year. It's truly the best opportunity on earth to purchase one-of-a-kind antlers, skulls, and more. 

High Noon Chili Cook-off

The High Noon Chili Cook-off is the spicy highlight of Old West Days in Jackson Hole, Wyoming! Local chefs and chili enthusiasts will face off in both professional and amateur categories to create the most flavorful and creative chili recipes. Attendees will get to sample a variety of chili styles, from mild to hot, with winners chosen by both judges and the people. The lucky winners will enjoy bragging rights all year long!

Think your chili recipe has what it takes to bring home the gold? All the details on how to get in on the action are right here!

Old West Brew Fest

The Old West Days Brewfest brings together beer enthusiasts and festival-goers to celebrate the Old West with a selection of craft brews and ciders from breweries across the Western US. From crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts to refreshing ciders, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. Brewfest participants vote for their favorite with the winner receiving the coveted Golden Boot award! 

Best of the West Parade

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with The Best of the West Parade, a standout event presented by The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce as part of The Old West Days Festival. This perennial celebration seamlessly weaves together the rich tapestry of heritage, history, community, culture, and the renowned recreational offerings that define this picturesque valley.

Suitable for all ages, this family-centric extravaganza features the American Legion Color Guard, Rodeo Queens, cowboys, cowgirls, mountain men, skiers, snowboarders, rafters, and fly-fishers. The parade winds its way from Glenwood Street to the iconic Broadway, passing the Elk Antler Arches on historic Jackson Town Square, offering a glimpse into the diverse identity of Wyoming. Children and families can revel in the excitement as parade floats distribute timeless delights such as candies and trinkets, creating cherished memories.

Million Dollar Music Fest

In synchronicity with the abundance of western culture and the ten days dedicated to celebrating it, Million Dollar Music Festival is part of ElkFest, Old West Days and the Mountain Man Rendezvous festivities. 

Taking place on the Town Square, Million Dollar Music Fest is a celebration for locals and visitors alike bringing top country music acts to the downtown Jackson stage. Each year is a different selection of up-and-coming artists along with at least two major headliners–between shows at the Cowboy Bar and at the Town Square stage. Previous acts have included Midland, Travis Tritt, Runaway June, and Jon Pardi. This is a free event that takes place the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, rain or shine on the Town Square. VIP Tickets are available for purchase. 

With the number of cowboys saddling up for the best elk antlers, chili, beers, and the best celebrations in western culture, the Million Dollar Music Festival, is a great place to put those cowboy boots to good use as the boot-scoot-n-boogie into the sunset. 

Make Unforgettable Memories at Old West Days in Jackson Hole

Old West Days is a cherished Jackson Hole tradition, and with each passing year, it grows in new and exciting ways. From great food that showcases Jackson Hole's world-class restaurants to fantastic music, an exploration of Western heritage, and more, there really is something for everyone. Be sure to get all of the exciting happenings on your calendar now — you won't want to miss a thing!