Inside the Idyllic Celeb Haunt of Jackson Hole, its Rising Arts Community and Locals’ Scene

Jackson Hole is a well-known winter retreat for celebrity skiers, but it’s also establishing itself as a noteworthy creative community — luring musicians, filmmakers and yes, movie stars.

The Wyoming town is as authentic as it is stunning, with locals nurturing an impressive arts scene in a mountain community of scenic spots and abundant wildlife.

Nestled between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, the idyllic town just kicked off its inaugural Jackson Hole International Film Festival (JHIFF) held at the National Wildlife Art Museum from December 8-10.

The 51,000-square-foot building — built into the hillside of the National Elk Refuge — held eight screenings over the weekend, keeping its prominent exhibit of animal artwork open to guests.

Jackson Hole Wildlife.

Juliet Adelman

Filmmakers and festival-goers from around the world were given a special welcome in Wyoming by committee members and local staff, who showed off highlights of the valley — and the countryside — during their stay.

The Virginian Lodge, which features fire pits, an outdoor spa, snack bar and bar, hosted a variety of activities, including live music every night.

Finn Taylor, screenwriter and director of the film on the final night of the festival, Avenue of the Giantshe even joined a local band on stage to play his mandolin, while I’ll be right over actress Kaylie Carter, who stars in the comedy-drama with Edie Falco, showed off her singing skills and was cheered on by director Brendon Walsh.

Writer-director Finn Taylor and JHIFF Artistic Director David Nugent discuss Taylor’s ‘Avenue of the Giants’ at the December 10, 2023 Closing Night.

Aleksandra Munger

Artist and musician Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, who is on the board of directors with his wife, lifestyle entrepreneur Courtney Sixx, shared with us how much the new venture means to him as he continues to venture further into the film scene.

“We love the idea of ​​bringing arts and culture to Jackson,” Nikki, 65, told PEOPLE working with JHIFF host Stuart Sun and executive director Marni Walsh.

“We’ve been talking about this for the last year and a half or so it’s been in motion. There’s a lot of really fantastic people involved. It’s the first time in years. It’s a great start.”

JHIFF team of filmmakers and festival staff.

Amrita Beverages

Courtney Sixx Opens Bouquet Box Flower Bar at Lela Rose Ranch in Jackson Hole (Exclusive)

“We love to call Jackson Hole home,” added Courtney, who showed guests how to arrange roses at her Bouquet Box flower bar as they sampled Wild Common tequila and mezcal from Amrita Beverages.

“It’s the most magical and perfect setting not only for showing movies, but our skiing, fine dining and spectacular hotels make it the most beautiful and pristine winter wonderland that doesn’t exist in this world.”

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One of the must-see stops in Jackson is Dornan’s Chuckwagon, established in 1922. Located along the Snake River, this bar and restaurant sits on a privately owned piece of land at the base of Grand Teton National Park. The family-owned establishment’s superior views provide a front-row seat to one of Jackson’s many beautiful landscapes.

Nikki Sixx Talks About Her Quiet Life In Jackson Hole: ‘I’m So Grateful’ (Exclusive)

In the “country” or town square, a newcomer’s right of passage is a visit to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, which may be frequented by tourists but is also a favorite of Reba McEntire when he’s in town, according to sources in the live music scene.

The Silver Dollar Bar inside the historic Wort Hotel is another western-themed live music hangout, favored by locals who enjoy telling the story of Charles J. Wort, the “host” who came to town in 1893.

The site, which “boasts 67 years of outlaw history,” was once an illegal but “tolerated” gambling den, according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Local wildlife in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Vincent Ledvina

Modern visitors who want to look like an outlaw can stop by the Grit General, which has been visited by Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford. It is one of the best stores in town that offers premium men’s clothing and accessories. Nearby Mountain Dandy stocks eclectic, handcrafted homewares.

Although at any given moment there may be a flock of celebrities — and billionaires — strolling through this unique town, Jackson Hole doesn’t take itself too seriously.

The rugged locale recently held a “Ski in Jeans” weekend where skiers attempted to break the Guinness Book of World Records for “the most people skiing and riding in jeans,” according to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s website.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Karsten Winegeart

In another special late summer gathering, Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen joined some fellow drummers in Jackson Hole for a series of events hosted by Mindy and Glenn Stearns for the Raven Drum Foundation, which aims to heal and empower trauma survivors , veterans and first responders through music and storytelling.

Are you visiting in summer or winter; seeking rest and rejuvenation or seeing an A-list star; visitors are sure to enjoy exploring the magical surroundings of Jackson Hole.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education