Jackson Hole This Month: January 2026 Events & Happenings

January in Jackson Hole is winter in its purest form—cold, snowy, and unapologetically alive. Between powder days and bluebird mornings, the valley hums with live music, cultural events, community gatherings, and time-honored winter traditions that make the dark months anything but dull. From cozy nights at the theater to late-night shows, farmers markets, and iconic outdoor events, this month’s calendar highlights the best ways to lean into the season and make the most of winter in the Tetons.

Photo courtesy National Park Service | Yellowstone National Park | Jacob W. Frank

Mark Your Calendar: Don't-Miss Events in January 2026

First Sundays Local’s Free Day at the National Museum of Wildlife Art — January 4

Locals enjoy free admission to the National Museum of Wildlife Art on First Sundays, making it an easy winter win for art lovers (of all ages) and cabin-fever escapees alike. Bonus points for the views overlooking the National Elk Refuge and a delectable lunch spot, Palate.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Inaugural Restaurant Week — January 9–16

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort launches its first Restaurant Week, featuring special menus and pricing at select Teton Village restaurants. A great excuse to explore resort dining beyond après snacks.

Jackson Hole Winter Farmers Market — January 10 & January 31

The Jackson Hole Farmers Market goes full winter mode with its Winter Farmers Market, bringing local growers, makers, artisans, and live music together for two seasonal indoor gatherings. On January 10, swing by The Lodge at Jackson Hole Conference Center (80 Scott Lane) from 1:00–4:00 p.m. for food, crafts, and community vibes. Then on January 31, catch the market at Hotel Terra in Teton Village from 3:00–6:00 p.m. Whether you’re stocking up on local goodies, sipping something warm, or just reconnecting with neighbors, this is a perfect way to savor winter in the valley.

La Bohème (Live from the Met) at the Center for the Arts — January 11

Presented by the Grand Teton Music Festival, Puccini’s beloved opera streams live from the world class Metropolitan Opera, offering a cultured and cozy experience without leaving town. Snag your tickets here. 

Chris Thile at the Center for the Arts — January 14

Genre-bending mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile brings his razor-sharp musicianship and unexpected humor to an intimate Jackson Hole stage. Reserve your spot for this unforgettable show here. 

International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) — January 21 

The International Fly Fishing Film Festival brings a curated lineup of short films celebrating fly fishing, adventure, and life on the water. A must for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with a pre-show gathering and raffle starting at 6:00 p.m at the Center for the Arts. 

ERNEST at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar — January 22

Country music standout ERNEST hits the iconic Cowboy Bar for a high-energy show that promises a late night, a bustling dance floor, and boisterous sing-alongs. 

WindSync at the Center for the Arts — January 29

This dynamic woodwind quintet blends classical repertoire with modern flair, delivering a fresh, engaging take on chamber music. Tickets are available now. 

International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race — January 30

One of Jackson Hole’s most iconic winter events returns, featuring elite mushers and sled dog teams racing through classic Wyoming winter terrain. Festivities begin in downtown Jackson’s Town Square with vendors and pre-race activity starting around 5:00 p.m., followed by the official opening ceremonies and the first teams leaving the chute around 6:30 p.m.—a lively evening event that draws locals and visitors alike to celebrate the start of the race.

Ongoing Winter Favorites in Jackson Hole

Skiing & Snowboarding

With Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain, and Grand Targhee all in full winter mode, January brings improving conditions with every incoming storm. Whether you’re chasing powder, carving groomers, or squeezing in a few après laps, this is prime mountain season—and it only gets better as snow continues to stack up.

Jackson Hole Hootenanny — Mondays at 6 p.m. at the Silver Dollar Bar inside the Wort Hotel (signups at 5 p.m.)

A beloved local tradition, the Jackson Hole Hootenanny brings acoustic musicians together every Monday night for an open-mic style listening session. Expect folk, bluegrass, old-time tunes, and the kind of laid-back community vibe that feels especially right in the dead of winter. Feel free to tune up your own instrument and join in; it's all part of the fun!

Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides — 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Daily

One of Jackson Hole’s quintessential winter experiences, the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides run through the snowy season (weather permitting). Guided by expert wranglers, broad-belted horse teams lead open sleighs through thousands of wintering elk, offering a close-up look at massive herds and dramatic Teton views. Rides depart daily from the Elk Refuge Trailhead—a must-do for visitors and locals alike looking for a classic, scenic winter excursion. (Pro tip: Dress in layers and bring a blanket for your lap!)

National Park Access & Winter Adventures

Photo courtesy National Park Service | Yellowstone National Park | Jacob W. Frank

Grand Teton National Park

While much of Grand Teton National Park is closed to vehicle traffic in winter, the main thoroghfare (US HWY 89) remains open (weather permitting), and there are plenty of places to park and explore the park via human power. The main road remains open to the Bradley–Taggart Lake Trailhead via the Inner Road. From there, visitors can enjoy excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing amid snow-covered peaks and quiet winter landscapes. The road is closed beyond this point toward Signal Mountain Lodge. (Note: Most park facilities including visitor centers and public restrooms are closed during the winter.)

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone’s winter access is a whole different adventure. Roads through the West, South, and East entrances are closed to regular vehicles and open exclusively to guided snowmobile or snowcoach travel, offering a rare, peaceful way to experience the park. In the north, the road from Mammoth Hot Springs to Cooke City remains open to vehicle traffic, providing year-round access and stunning winter scenery.

January Weather Outlook

Jackson Hole January 2026 Weather Outlook

Jackson Hole January weather 2026 is expected to deliver a classic mountain winter, with near-normal temperatures and above-average chances for precipitation, according to early seasonal outlooks from the National Weather Service. Long-range models suggest a higher likelihood of snowfall throughout the month, driven by broader northern Rockies winter patterns, while temperatures are most likely to remain close to historical averages rather than significantly warmer or colder. Expect frequent snow events, reliable snowpack, and true winter conditions ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and outdoor recreation.

Photo courtesy Visit Jackson Hole

Teton Valley January 2026 Weather Outlook

The Teton Valley January 2026 weather forecast points toward a cold, snowy month with increased precipitation potential, following regional trends across eastern Idaho and northwest Wyoming. Seasonal guidance indicates above-normal chances for winter precipitation, which typically translates to consistent snowfall and sustained snow cover across the valley. Temperatures are expected to stay near average for January, meaning persistent freezing conditions with occasional breaks between storm systems—a solid setup for Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and full-on winter valley living.