A Community-Wide Celebration of Art in the No. 1 Arts Community in the U.S.

Each September, Jackson Hole hosts the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival. The 42nd annual event returns as a multi-day celebration of art and culture held throughout the community.

QuickDraw Auction Painting Runner

The festival takes place during a year of national recognition for the region. Jackson Hole, Wyoming has been named the No. 1 arts community in the United States by the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Arts Vibrancy Index. Released January 8, 2026, the 10th annual index evaluated more than 900 communities nationwide, ranking Jackson Hole first overall ahead of major metropolitan areas.

This recognition reflects the role the arts play in Jackson Hole year-round and is especially visible during the Fall Arts Festival, when galleries, museums, public spaces, and cultural institutions host events across the valley.

Man Painting Under the Elk Arches - QuickDraw

A central event of the festival is the Jackson Hole QuickDraw & Auction, held on Saturday, September 19, from 8 AM to 1 PM on the Jackson Town Square. During QuickDraw, 30 artists create original works in 90 minutes in a public setting. The event concludes with a live auction of the completed pieces, with proceeds supporting participating artists and the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce.

 

The festival also features Ben Steele as the Featured Artist. Steele earned a BFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of Utah and continued his training at the Helper Workshops under David Dornan and Paul Davis. He lives and works in Helper, Utah.

Steele’s work is included in numerous personal and corporate collections, including Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, Steve Carell, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Robert Herjavec, Dan Patrick, Michael Sugar, Fred Couples, Raymond James Financial, Zions Bank Art Collection, the State of Utah Alice Merrill Horne Art Collection, the San Francisco Giants Executive Offices, the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, and Delta Airline Sky Club lounges nationwide.

jackson hole quickdraw art auction vip pass

Together, national recognition, signature events, and participating artists define the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival and its role within the local arts community.

Spanning ten days, the festival schedule includes gallery walks, outdoor art fairs, exhibitions, architectural tours, and food-related events. Programming is open to residents, visitors, collectors, and the general public.

Festival Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

Palates & Palettes Gallery Walk

September 11 | 5–8 PM | Town of Jackson
A Fall Arts Festival favorite, Palates & Palettes invites guests to stroll through downtown Jackson as galleries open their doors for an evening of fine art, hospitality, and inspiration.

QuickDraw - People

Arts on the Green

September 13 | 10 AM–5 PM | Center for the Arts Lawn
A juried outdoor fair showcasing the creativity of more than 50 local and regional artists. The event features a wide range of mediums, live music, and food in a lively open-air setting.

Fall Arts Festival Art Walk

September 16 | 5–8 PM | Town of Jackson
An evening of curated gallery experiences, artist meet-and-greets, and exceptional artwork in a stunning mountain setting.

Western Visions® Art Show + Sale

September 17 | National Museum of Wildlife Art
The National Museum of Wildlife Art’s largest and longest-running fundraiser brings together top contemporary wildlife artists and collectors from around the world.

Jackson Hole Showcase of Homes

September 18 | 10 AM–4 PM | Jackson Hole, Wyoming
A rare opportunity to tour architecturally significant residences celebrating fine design and luxury living.

Jackson Hole Art Auction

September 19 | Auction Begins at 1:00 PM | Jackson Town Square
Now in its 19th year, the Jackson Hole Art Auction is a signature Fall Arts Festival event and one of the most highly anticipated art auctions of the year. Featuring an exceptional selection of masterworks celebrating the American West, wildlife art, and more, the auction draws collectors and art enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. Held immediately following the Jackson Hole QuickDraw, this premier event offers the opportunity to acquire museum-quality works in the heart of downtown Jackson.

Gallery Wild Interior

Sunday Art Brunch

September 20 | 11 AM–3 PM | Town of Jackson
Close out the Fall Arts Festival with a relaxed and festive Sunday Art Brunch, blending gourmet cuisine, beverages, and gallery hopping across local art spaces.

Experience Art in Motion

Palates & Palettes - Admiring Art Work

From live art on the Town Square to world-class auctions, gallery walks, and nationally recognized talent, the 42nd Annual Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival showcases the creativity, culture, and community that earned Jackson Hole its place as the No. 1 arts community in the United States.

With more events, featured artists, and festival details still to be announced, the Fall Arts Festival continues to build toward an unforgettable celebration of the arts. Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to check back for updates as additional programming and participating artists are revealed.

Join us this September and experience art in motion, only in Jackson Hole.