As the crisp mountain air settles over downtown and the days grow shorter, Jackson Hole begins its transformation into a Western Winter Wonderland. The holiday season brings plenty of sparkle as lights, music, and community warmth fill Town Square. This beloved tradition begins with the Annual Town Square Lighting Ceremony, the moment that officially opens Jackson Hole’s festive celebrations.

Join us for an unforgettable evening:

Location: Jackson Hole Town Square
Date: Friday, November 28
Time: 5:00 to 7:00 PM

Presented by Snake River Roasting Company

What to Expect: A Parent-Friendly Schedule

5:00 PM – Holiday Music Begins
The Jackson Hole Community Band and Choir start the evening with festive songs. Families can begin finding a comfortable place to gather, enjoy the atmosphere, and prepare for the countdown.

5:15 PM – Crowds Gather Under the Arches
Parents with little ones may want to arrive by this time to secure a good viewing spot. The square fills with families, friends, and visitors as the anticipation builds.

5:30 PM – Lighting of the Elk Antler Arches
The community joins together for a cheerful countdown. When the clock hits the final number, the elk antler arches illuminate in thousands of twinkling lights, bathing the square in a beautiful golden glow. This moment marks the official start of the holiday season in Jackson Hole.

Immediately After the Lights Come On – Santa Arrives
A firetruck pulls into the square carrying Santa, who steps down to greet families and share holiday cheer. Children can wave, take photos, and enjoy meeting the season’s most anticipated guest.

Warm Treats and Western Hospitality

Throughout the evening, guests enjoy hot cocoa provided by Snake River Roasting Company and delicious cookies from Provisions. These cozy treats pair perfectly with a brisk November evening, so remember your hats, gloves, and warm jackets.

This gathering of neighbors, friends, and visitors captures the heart of Jackson Hole. It is friendly, festive, and full of community spirit.

Kicking Off Western Winter Wonderland

The Town Square Lighting Ceremony is more than a single evening of celebration. It is the official launch of Western Winter Wonderland, a season-long collection of festive events and traditions that stretches from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.

Once the arches glow, the holidays come to life with:

Santa on the Square

From December 13 to 24, Santa greets families nightly at the Stage Stop cabin. Enjoy complimentary cocoa and homemade cookies from Jedediah’s while little ones share their Christmas wishes.

Shop Local Holiday Weekends

Warm up with cocoa each weekend, explore local shopping promotions, enjoy live music, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Presented by PirateShip.com.

Winter Windfall

Shop local throughout the holiday season and be entered to win $1,000 in local shopping credit. This is a wonderful way to support the community while finding unique gifts.

Holiday Happenings All Month Long

December in Jackson Hole includes concerts, artisan markets, sleigh rides on the Elk Refuge, ice skating, and more. Even without early-season snowfall, the town offers festive activities and unforgettable moments for all ages.

Join Us for the Most Magical Night of the Year

Dress warmly, bring your holiday spirit, and meet us beneath the glowing arches.
Let’s begin Western Winter Wonderland together, right where the holidays truly start in Jackson Hole.