The holiday season in Jackson Hole feels like something you can step into. Snow settles over the valley, lights glow around Town Square, and the mountains become the backdrop for traditions you will talk about long after the trip. If you're planning a holiday getaway in 2026, here's how to make the most of your time here, including what to do, what to reserve early, and where to stay.
Jump to: The Holiday Season, Holiday Traditions, Where to Stay, What to Book, Time Together, FAQs
What Is the Holiday Season Like in Jackson Hole?
The weeks from late November through New Year's bring together ski season and some of the valley's most memorable traditions. In Teton Village, mountain days lead into seasonal festivities at the base of the resort. In town, the illuminated antler arches make an evening around the Square feel like an occasion. There is plenty to do, but some of the best moments happen in between: breakfast before everyone heads out, a shared meal, or an evening back at home after a day in the snow.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026–27 winter season on November 27, 2026, subject to mountain conditions. Check the WinterFest page for this year's holiday event schedule as your trip approaches.
Holiday Traditions Worth Traveling For
See the lights on Town Square
The illuminated antler arches are one of Jackson Hole's most recognizable holiday sights. Make time to wander around Town Square, browse the surrounding shops, and stop for dinner nearby. The lights are part of the season well beyond the annual lighting ceremony, so you can enjoy them throughout a late December visit.
Celebrate in Teton Village
WinterFest at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has brought seasonal activities to Teton Village, including cookie decorating, skiing with Santa, and Santa's memorable arrival at the tram. The resort has also celebrated New Year's Eve with a torchlight parade and fireworks. Watch for the confirmed 2026 schedule before planning around a particular event.
Find your own winter tradition
A holiday trip can include a wildlife tour, skating, a sleigh ride, or an afternoon at a hot spring. Choose a few outings your group will enjoy and leave room for the moments you didn't schedule. For more ideas, explore our guide to off-mountain winter activities.
Where Should You Stay for the Holidays in Jackson Hole?
The right home base depends on how you want to spend your days. Outpost has homes near the lifts, close to Town Square, and in quieter parts of the valley, with space to come together after every outing.
For mountain days and Teton Village festivities
Tram Tower 12 is a five-bedroom ski-in/ski-out home for a large group, with a private hot tub, sauna, and a patio beneath the tram. For a smaller gathering, Crystal Springs 404 offers three bedrooms plus a loft in the heart of Teton Village. Nez Perce A1 is a three-bedroom option within walking distance of village shops, restaurants, and lifts. For a trip centered on the mountain, consider Under The Tram, a ski-in/ski-out chalet with a private hot tub and sauna.
For evenings around Town Square
King Ridge 4 sits at the base of Snow King Mountain within walking distance of Town Square, with three bedrooms and a shared rooftop hot tub. Nearby, the new Grand View 3220 gives a group of up to eight room to spread out. Grand View 3630 offers three bedrooms, Teton views, and an open living and dining space. For a smaller group, One Town Hill 306 is a two-bedroom home near Snow King with a kitchen suited to meals together.
For a quieter holiday setting
Mountain View Escape offers four bedrooms and mountain views from Spring Creek Ranch. Balsam Lodge A3 is a one-bedroom option in the Aspens between town and Teton Village, ideal for a smaller getaway.
For more on choosing a neighborhood, see our guide to the areas of Jackson Hole.
What Should You Book Ahead for a Holiday Trip?
Start with your home and travel dates, especially if your group needs a particular bedroom count or location. Then arrange lift tickets, lessons, and equipment for the ski days you have in mind. If a special dinner is part of your plans, make a reservation or arrange catering as calendars open. Confirm holiday hours with restaurants and activity providers before your trip.
Our 2026–27 ski season planning guide covers lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and what can wait until closer to arrival.
Make Room for Time Together
However you celebrate, a holiday trip feels more memorable when there is room to slow down together. Start with coffee and breakfast at home, head out for a few hours on the mountain or a winter outing, and leave the afternoon open. Come back to share a meal, trade stories from the day, and settle in for the evening.
Jackson Hole brings its own traditions to the season. An Outpost home gives you space to bring yours along, too. Explore Jackson Hole vacation rentals →
Holiday Travel FAQs
Is Jackson Hole Mountain Resort open during the holidays?
The resort lists November 27, 2026, as its scheduled opening day for the 2026–27 season. Operations and available terrain depend on conditions, so check the current mountain report before your ski days.
Should I stay in Jackson or Teton Village for a holiday trip?
Choose Teton Village if slope access is your main priority. Choose the Town of Jackson if you want to spend more time near Town Square, restaurants, and shops. The best fit depends on what your group plans to do most often.
Where can I find the 2026 holiday event schedule?
Check the official WinterFest calendar and Jackson Hole Chamber holiday page for confirmed event dates and times as the season approaches.
