Lead Photo Credit: Eric Seymour
No one would argue that Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and the greater area that includes the town of Jackson is one of the most iconic ski destinations in North America. From its legendary terrain that has been the focus of many snowsports films, to the western small-town charm of Jackson Square, Jackson Hole offers a highly unique experience that is all its own. This special blend of action and atmosphere captivates the minds of locals and visitors alike, drawing them in each winter to experience all that is Jackson Hole. A combination this amazing is certainly worth celebrating and with the season winding down (kinda) Rendezvous Festival returns to commemorate all that makes Jackson Hole great.
Rendezvous Festival: A Celebration of All Things Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole Rendezvous Festival originally began in 2006 in what is known to the locals as “The Big Blues Traveler Year.” I can’t imagine why. Prior to that year, there were end-of-the-season concerts but nothing to the scale of Rendezvous Festival. Having run pretty continuously – outside of a couple of years off due to Covid – since that time, Rendezvous returned last year with a bang and this year’s festival promises to be even better.
Rendezvous Festival was created as a way to celebrate Jackson Hole, the people who visit and all that goes into making their winter season special.
“A lot of hard work goes into a ski season and guests invest in their trips here. Rendezvous is a way to get together, offer thanks and have a great party with amazing musical talent while having an amazing time in an amazing place,” says Andrew Way, VP Marketing at JHMR.
One of the Best Musical Lineups Ever
Photo Credit: Eric Seymour
To attract top level musical acts, the mountain resort partners with the Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board to put on this FREE two day music festival. This partnership has always enabled Rendezvous Festival to draw talented artists like Ben Harper who played last year. However, with the Revivalists, Ryan Bingham and Elle King all playing this year, the lineup promises to be one of the best ever.
“It’s no secret that we’re incredibly proud of the breadth, variety and caliber of this year’s musical talent, elaborates Way. The Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board has always been amazing partners, and they’ve invested with us in this year’s Rendezvous at an unprecedented level. This allowed us to bring in higher level musical talent and an even more sophisticated level of production.”
Higher level musical talent isn’t the only aspect that separates Rendezvous Festival from other spring mountain events. As alluded to earlier, Jackson Hole is proving the old adage that location is key.
Location, Location, Location
Photo Credit: Eric Seymour
“The primary differentiating factor is the simple fact that it’s held in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Friday night’s show on the Town Square showcases the unique atmosphere and sensibilities of the town we call home. And Saturday night in Teton Village takes place directly adjacent to what we think is North America’s best skiing, explains Way.
Picture dancing under the famous Elk Horn Arch in Jackson Town square Friday night as The Revivalists rock the stage. Or, grabbing après ski beers after a few tram laps and then hanging out listening to the highly popular Elle King and Grammy Award winning artist Ryan Bingham. There’s simply nothing like it.
“To get to come here and experience this celebration in conjunction with the skiing and riding is pretty special, Andrew Way affirms. You’ll definitely see a lot of folks dancing in their ski boots Saturday night.”
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après, and the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres