On February 20th, the Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board (JHTTB) held a special meeting and approved $900,000 in funding for four major events in Teton County, Wyoming, aimed at boosting the local economy. Using lodging tax revenue from visitors, the board selected events running from October 2025 to May 2026 to draw off-season tourism, increase lodging income, and highlight Jackson Hole’s outdoor and cultural appeal.
The funded events include the Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Sled Race, awarded $50,000 for its ceremonial start, celebrated as a one-of-a-kind attraction for Jackson and Wyoming. Native Voices, formerly Teton Powwow, received $100,000 for an eight-day May event showcasing Native art and Indigenous culture tied to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR) Conference secured the largest share at $450,000, hosting 146 search and rescue teams from over 40 countries in October. Cody Lockhart from Teton County Search and Rescue noted that 80% of attendees are expected to extend their stays, with past host locations seeing strong return visits. Lastly, the Rendezvous Music Festival earned $300,000, down from previous years due to a tighter budget, for its track record of drawing over 10,000 attendees in early April and boosting late ski season visits.
JHTTB Board Chair Mary Bess explained that these events were chosen to support local businesses during slower months while offering diverse experiences for both visitors and residents. The board reviewed six applications totaling over $2.3 million in requests during a 3.5-hour meeting, following a preliminary discussion on February 13th. Economic impact during low seasons and alignment with promoting Jackson Hole as a sustainable destination drove the final 6-0 vote, with one member abstaining. Last year, JHTTB event funding delivered a $7-to-$1 return, adding an estimated $11 million to lodging revenue and $5 million in broader economic benefits.
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