Jackson Hole’s Seasonal Pulse: What’s On the Calendar This Fall

From vibrant cultural festivals and awe-inspiring wildlife migrations to cozy holiday traditions and outdoor adventure, Jackson Hole’s Community Calendar rolls into full swing with a dynamic lineup that reflects the rhythm of the season. Each month unveils unique events that blend natural beauty, local artistry, and community spirit—proving the Valley’s calendar is as rich as its landscapes.

September marks the debut of Jackson Hole’s first major seasonal shift: the annual Safari at Jackson Hole, hosted each year in early September.

This immersive wildlife experience invites visitors to guided early-morning safaris across Grand Teton National Park, where guides share in-depth knowledge of elk rutting behavior, predator-prey relationships, and the dramatic ecological tapestry of the Tetons. With small groups and expert naturalists, the Safari transforms a morning drive into an educational expedition. “It’s not just about seeing animals—it’s about understanding the pulse of their world,” says Ranger Jordan Hayes of the National Park Service.

“Locals and visitors alike leave with a deeper respect for the fragile balance of humankind and wilderness.” Beyond safaris, September supports growing cultural momentum: the Teton Jazz Festival opens with intimate house concerts in downtown Jackson, blending melody with the valley’s laid-back charm. Local artisans also debut early-fall market pop-ups, offering handcrafted textiles, woodwork, and seasonal Mead from regional producers.

October ushers in quieter, more contemplative energy, highlighted by the Jackson Hole Film Festival.

Over a week, the festival screens world cinema, indigenous storytelling, and environmental documentaries—including rare screening of time-lapse footage from the Tetons’ fragile alpine zones. “Film becomes a mirror for the season,” notes festival director Elena Marquez. “This year’s lineup explores migration, place, and memory—echoing the human and natural journey through Jackson Hole.” Nearby, the Bridge Street Art Walk transforms downtown with curated gallery exhibitions and large-scale outdoor installations, linking urban creativity with nature’s grandeur.

Meanwhile, the annual Winter Solstice Lantern Walk—occurring around December 21—draws crowds along Town Square, where hundreds carry handcrafted lanterns through snow-dusted streets, honoring resilience and light in the darkest days.

A defining chapter arrives in November with the Jackson Hole International Film Festival’s focus on humanitarian storytelling, offering thought-provoking documentaries and panel discussions on climate resilience, cultural preservation, and mountain communities. The festival’s Orson Welles Tribute Screening—honoring cinematic legacy alongside ethical storytelling—has become a community highlight.

“We’re not just spectators—we’re part of the conversation,” says festival curator Marcus Tran. “This season’s themes reflect urgency: how we adapt, connect, and protect what matters.” Complementing this, weekly farmers’ markets feature peak-season harvests—pumpkins, apples, and root vegetables—sourced from local runs like Jackson Farms and Mountain Peaks Co-op, reinforcing seasonal eating and rural roots.

December dominates with the full force of Jackson Hole’s holiday magic, anchored by the beloved Jackson Hole Winter Solstice Celebration.

Spanning December 20–23, the multi-day event includes candlelit processions, live folk music in historic buildings, and a spectacular tree lighting on the Tetons’ snow-dusted crest. Community members bake traditional treats—gingerbread and mulled cider—while kids explore craft workshops inspired by Native American and winter folklore. “The Solstice isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a reaffirmation of belonging,” says veteran resident Clarissa Fernandez.

“It’s home at its most vibrant.” Local businesses thread seasonal flair into windows—hand-thrown pottery, wool blankets, winter kits—while the Jackson Hole Historical Society hosts lectures on the valley’s frontier roots and evolving identity.

Throughout the season, the Jackson Hole Community Calendar functions not just as an events guide, but as a living narrative of seasonal transformation—each entry a thread weaving together nature, culture, and community resilience. From September safaris to December solstice glow, the calendar captures the spirit of a place shaped by mountains, wildlife, and deeply rooted human connection.

With every event, Jackson Hole reminds year-round visitors and residents alike that true beauty lies not only in the landscapes, but in the shared moments that make them meaningful. What’s next depends on the rhythm of the earth, the warmth of neighbors, and the timeless traditions that make this valley enduringly captivating.