Events heat up when the weather gets warmer
As the snow melts away, Eastern Idaho gears up for warmer months and outdoor events. From farmers' markets to marathons and rodeos to festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Yellowstone Teton Territory.
Farm Fresh Fun
Spring is in the air when the Farmers’ Markets open their booths around the region. Idaho Falls’ Farmers’ Market begins in early May and hosts up to 100 local vendors and live music weekly. Closely following are the Rexburg Farmers’ Market at the Madison County Fairgrounds and Teton Valley’s Farmers’ Market at the Driggs Plaza. Spend a sunny day browsing at booths selling fresh produce, meats, bread, flowers, arts and crafts.Â
The Parks Open
May is when Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks open to all traffic. Summer has officially arrived when travelers worldwide begin to visit Eastern Idaho’s amazing national forests and Yellowstone Teton Territory's parks. Lodges fill, campgrounds are booked, and RVs are a frequent sight on the region’s scenic byways . Don't wait - the sooner you book your accommodations, the better! Plan your travel in May for a less crowded Park experience!
Mountain Brewers Beer Fest
Idaho Falls is always a hub for fun. As Eastern Idaho’s largest city, the nightlife and historic downtown area offer the best dining, shopping, and entertainment. So, it is no surprise that summer events kick off with Mountain Brewers Beer Fest on the first Saturday in June. Always held at the Sandy Downs Arena , the Beer Fest attracts thousands of attendees to sample a diverse selection of local and regional craft brews. Vendors such as Idaho Brewing Company, Grand Teton Brewing Company, and Snow Eagle Brewing & Grille are usually onsite, and the number of breweries showcasing their products increases yearly.
Hit the Ground Running
We say, when you get here, hit the ground running! The Teton Dam Marathon is a premier running event in Rexburg, Idaho . Runners from across the country gather to test their endurance and enjoy the stunning views of the Teton Mountain Range. The marathon offers a variety of race distances, including a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, catering to runners of all levels.Â
In mid-July, the region’s wild water is raging, and running the Mesa Falls Marathon is a physical and aesthetic experience. The marathon course follows a scenic route along the banks of the Snake River and alongside the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls just outside of Island Park , before hitting the finish line in Ashton. Â
Other marathons and fun runs in the region to check out include the Yellowstone Trail Half Marathon, All-American Sawtelle Stampede Fun Run, BYUI Adventure Race, and the Harriman 25K/50K Trail Run.
Cowboys, Cotton Candy, and Celebrating Our Nation
The Summer sun sets late in Yellowstone Teton Territory, and family-friendly events go well into the evening. Rodeos and fairs run throughout the Summer and are classic Western fun. Get ready for mutton busting, bull riding, carnival rides, and Summer's sweet sensation - cotton candy!
The 4th of July is cause for big celebrations all over Eastern Idaho. From small-town parades in Ashton, Victor , and Ririe to big fireworks displays in Rexburg, West Yellowstone, and Idaho Falls, Yellowstone Teton Territory proudly shows off its patriotism! Events to celebrate the Red, White & Blue usually occur over a few days. Outdoor music festivals and classic car shows are always fun, with food trucks and beer tents nearby.
Float over the Tetons
Driggs, Idaho takes the 4th of July holiday out of this world with its annual Teton Valley Balloon Rally. Now in its 43rd year, a sky full of hot air balloons launches from the Teton County Fairgrounds every first week of July! Brightly colored balloons ascend into the sky against the majestic background of the Teton Mountain Range. Truly a sight to behold!
You don't want to miss this! You may drive to the fairgrounds to see the spectacle or camp on the balloon field. Do you want to go up, up, and away in a beautiful balloon? Hot air balloon rides are available to the public with a reservation.
RV Sand Dunes Showdown
Earn bragging rights at the Sand Dunes Showdown in early August! Race Dukes of Hazzard style over 10,000 acres of pristine white quartz sand. Begin and end the race at Idaho Dunes RV where you can also hook up and stay. After the races are over, head into town. There is so much to see in St. Anthony!
A Labor of Love
We bid Summer adieu over Labor Day Weekend with the Island Park Festival. Featuring two days of live entertainment, a DJ, food trucks, over 100 vendors, live chainsaw carving demonstrations, and free horse-drawn carriage rides, the Festival gets bigger and better each year! It is the perfect way to send Summer off in style!
When the Festival is over, don't head out of town yet! You are on island time in Eastern Idaho. Explore Island Park and then take the scenic route to Mesa Falls and Ashton.
Eastern Idaho is Event-FULL!
Eastern Idaho’s Spring and Summer seasons are certainly short … but sweet! The region's events are just as memorable as its outdoor recreation opportunities. We have just highlighted a few here. Y'all come!
What ELSE is happening this Spring and Summer 2024?