The acclaimed Grand Teton Music Festival opened its 2009 summer season last night at the Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village. Music continues throughout the week with Festival Orchestra Opening Concerts on Thursday, July 2nd and Friday, July 3rd. Guest conductor Thomas Wilkins leads a fiery performance of Prokofiev's Violin Concerto No. 2 with virtuosic violinist Cho-Liang Lin. The orchestra virtually dances with the Latin rhythms of the Danzon No. 2 of Marquez, and the evening closes with Dvorak's beautiful 8th Symphony. Don't miss the champagne toast onstage following tonight's performance to help kick off the season! For tickets, call 307-733-1128.

Only four more days until the 4th of July. As always, your choices for things to do are endless. If you're planning on spending the day in town, you won't want to miss the annual 4th of July parade, which winds through historic downtown Jackson starting around 10:30am. The parade will be followed by JH Community Band Concert on the square and kids games at St. John's Medical Center. For the culminating day-time 4th of July event, head to Alpine Field near the high school for the Music in the Hole FREE concert, performed by the Grand Teton Music Festival. If town is calling your name, then stick around. The square is sure to be hopping throughout the day and the fireworks at Snow King (starting around 10:00pm) are not to be missed!

If you find yourself in Teton Village to celebrate our country's independence, you'll be met with just as many fun options, including the Silver Car Auction featuring some of the most classic rides in the country. The Mangy Moose will offer live music ($8 at the door) by Head for the Hills--an acoustic bluegrass band. Or ride the Bridger Gondola to The Deck where you can enjoy unique summer cocktails, a summer grill menu and small plates while taking in the surrounding vistas. Gondola rides will be free up to the restaurant until 10:30pm. And finally, the Teton Village fireworks show starting at 9:30pm! Watch the sky light up against the gorgeous backdrop of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

And if you're looking to escape into the wild for a bit during the day, head to the Snake River for a whitewater trip, into Grand Teton National Park for a scenic bike ride on the new bike path or up to Dornan's restaurant in Moose, where you can enjoy great pizza while gazing up at the Tetons.

I didn't really believe my eyes when I read the headline on the National Museum of Wildlife Art's website either, but I clicked on the link and it appears to be true. To help benefit the museum's programs, they will be selling raffle tickets throughout the summer season for a chance to win a 2009 Mini Cooper. Tickets are $25 a piece or five for $100. The winner will be drawn on the evening of Friday, September 18, 2009 during the Western Visions Miniatures & More Show. To purchase tickets, call 307-732-5412 or visit the National Musuem of Wildlife Art and buy your tickets at the admissions desk. Don't forget to explore the exhibits while you're there! The Lorax: Original Illustrations by Dr. Seuss will be showing until September 7th.

New this summer is The Deck at the summit of the Bridger Gondola at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. Don't miss the Open House tonight, June 26th. Ride the gondola up and sit out on The Deck where you can enjoy Happy Hour from 5:30pm - 6:30pm with 2 for 1 margaritas, mojitos, house beer and wine by the glass. Also enjoy a creative summer menu of small bites and shared plates. The Deck will be open five nights a week starting July 3rd.

The valley's premier culinary event will take place this weekend in Teton Village. This event is the largest for the Grand Teton Music Festival. If you haven't yet experienced a performance by the acclaimed Grand Teton Music Festival symphony orchestra, it's well worth doing. If you're an orchestra afficionado, then the wine auction is a great way to support this renowned group of musicians. As one of the top wine auctions in the country, this event welcomes vinters, chefs and connoisseurs from all over the country. Call the main office at the Grand Teton Music Festival today to inquire about ticket information, 307-733-3050.

Looking for other events and activities in and around Jackson in the coming weeks? Check out the Jackson Hole Central Reservations' Events Calendar!

Known for its summer music scene, Grand Targhee is bringing the festival atmosphere back with a bang in 2009. Tickets are now on sale for the 5th Annual Targhee Fest, which will take place July 17-19. This year's lineup features two Grammy winners, multiple Grammy nominees and includes on-site activites, food vendors and games alongside award-winning music. Limited tent camping is available and there will be a free shuttle service from Driggs. The all-star lineup is below.

5th Annual Targhee Fest at Grand Targhee
July 17-19, 2009

Camping site gates open at 9:00 AM on Friday, July 17, 2009
Festival site gates open at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 17, 2009

Friday 7/17/09  
4:00 PM Lukas Nelson
5:30 PM Jackie Greene
7:00 PM Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
9:30 PM Gov't Mule

Saturday 7/18/09  
12:00 PM Tift Merritt
1:30 PM James McMurtry
3:30 PM Sonny Landreth
5:30 PM Vedera
7:00 PM The Wallflowers
9:00 PM Jonny Lang

Sunday 7/19/09  
12:00 PM Carrie Rodriguez
2:00 PM Chuck Prophet
4:00 PM Bettye Lavette
6:00 PM Keb' Mo'

All times and performers subject to change. No refunds.

Please note: Parking passes will be enforced this year ($10 per car per day- puchase upon arrival; FREE parking pass for weekend passholders).

Local outlet sales open 10 days prior to event (based on availability).

Weekend Trap Bar Entertainment:
We will offer weekend music at the Trap Bar (Tickets also sold in advance at Grand Targhee Ticket Booth, Trap Bar, and Big Hole Music in Driggs).

Other Recreation Options:
Looking for some organized recreation during Targheefest? Consider running/walking in the Tin Cup Challenge in nearby Driggs, Idaho on Saturday morning July 18th before the festival starts for the day. The event includes marathon, half-marathon and 10K competitive races, as well as a recreational 5K fun run and walk. This event raises funds for nonprofit organizations in our region.
For more information go to www.tincupchallenge.org.

Targhee Fest Tickets:
Additional surcharges will be applied to all ticket purchases. No gate sales. 
On-site Camping* - (includes 3 day Festival pass) $155
On-site Oversized RV Fee** - (vehicles larger than 22 feet) $50
Child Camping Pass (Ages 12 and Under) $15
All Weekend Pass (No Camping) $130
Friday Only  $55
Saturday Only Pass $65
Sunday Only Pass $55
Child Pass (Ages 12 and Under, Music Only) FREE
Parking Pass***  $10.00 per car per day

*CAMPING IS SOLD PER PERSON. Every person camping either in a tent or in an overnight vehicle is required to have a camping pass - even those 12 years old and younger. Camping tickets only available online. We have a limited number of "family quiet zone" camping sites in addition to our traditional sites - first come, first served, inquire at check-in. THE CARIBOU-TARGHEE NATIONAL FOREST REQUIRES THAT ALL FOOD MUST BE STORED IN BEAR-RESISTANT CONTAINERS (certified through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee Courtesy Inspection Program) OR STORED IN A CLOSED, HARD-SIDED VEHICLE WITHOUT OPENINGS (read USDA Forest Service Press Release). THERE WILL BE NO CAR CAMPING THE NIGHT BEFORE IN THE PARKING LOT. No exceptions.

**OVERSIZED RV PARKING FEE Any overnight vehicle that exceeds 22' must purchase this additional permit for $50. All other vehicles under 22' do not have to purchase this permit. Oversized sites are located in a different parking area from the other camping vehicles. Camping tickets only available online.

***PARKING FEE Site parking $10.00 per car per day (purchase upon arrival); 3 day weekend pass includes complimentary parking. Be more sustainable and save on gas and carpool!

WILL CALL TICKETS:
Will call tickets will be located at Habitat in downtown Driggs, ID. You will have to pick up your tickets before arriving at the resort.
Habitat
18 N. Main St.
Driggs, ID 83422
pH: 208-354-7669 (SNOW)

Ticket Outlets:

Purchase tickets online with TicketWeb.* Tickets will not be sold at the Resort.

Local outlets (listed below) will sell tickets 10 days prior to event (based on availability):

Tobacco Row*
120 N Cache
Jackson, WY 83001
pH: 307-733-4385
Mon-Sat 9:30am-7pm; Sun 10am-6pm

Big Hole Music*
60 E. Little Ave.
Driggs, ID 83422
pH: 208-354-3659
Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Habitat*
18 N. Main St.
Driggs, ID 83422
pH: 208-354-7669 (SNOW)

*Additional surcharge applied to all ticket sales.

If you haven't taken a look at the summer travel specials in Jackson Hole, now is the time. As we head into the busiest season, things are booking up quickly. Already in the market for winter? It's never too early to start looking and booking, especially with these great Jackson Hole winter vacation deals already on the market.

SUMMER:
Stay at the luxurious Teton Club in Teton Village and receive a FREE 7-day park pass.

Up to 40% OFF at the AAA Four Diamond Snake River Lodge and Spa

Book 4 nights, get the 5th night FREE at the new, luxurious White Buffalo Club

Jackson Hole Resort Lodging: Book 3 nights, get the 4th FREE--Book by July 1

Book 3 nights and get the 4th FREE at Spring Creek Ranch

Discounted rates at the Ranch Inn in downtown Jackson throughout the summer season

WINTER:
Book 1 night, get 1 night FREE at the Best Western Lodge at Jackson Hole

Snow King early booking specials now available

Get the 5th night of lodging and the 5th day of skiing FREE

Ski and stay for FREE with Jackson Hole Resort Lodging

Book 6 nights, get the 7th FREE at Snow King Resort this winter

Get your 4th night FREE at the Inn at Jackson Hole and Teton Mountain Lodge this winter

Looking for a good way to spend the evening? How about supporting a good cause. This evening, the Greenschool will be hosting a presentation of its film, "The Guaymas Project" and a silent auction fundraiser at Jackson Hole's Center for the Arts. The funds will benefit the Greenschool and future educational facility restoriations.

What is the Greenschool? It's a non-profit organization that installs renewable energy systems and educates children in impoverished schools around the world. One educational component of the organization teaches students about the renewable energy sources being installed to instill a better understanding of power and its potential.

The evening will feature The Guaymas Project, a 25-minute documentary, produced by the Greenschool Organization and co-directed by Kina Pickett. Doors open at 7:00pm with a $20 entry fee.

7pm Doors 
7-7:40 Silent Auction 
7:40ish Movie 
7:40-8:00 Silent Auction Completion 

Silent Auction Items: 

Heather Earson Photography - 8x10 print and online proofing. 
Matt Combs - Paragliding - tandem paragliding trip. 
Cloudveil apparel - 2 Waterproof Shells (1 mens / 1 womens) 
Greg Von Dornsten Photography- Photo Contribution 
Scott Nechay - Professionally cooked private party dinner for up to 500 
($1000 value) 
Dave Hansen Whitewater Canyon or Flat Water trip for two. 
Rendevous Bistro - Dinner for two to any of the three restaurants 
Trio - Dinner for two. 
Four Seasons - Dinner for two 
Kina Pickett - Greenscool Photograph with Frame 
Amangani - Dinner for two 

As the sun finally broke through the clouds, Jackson Hole Central Reservations agents headed over to downtown Jackson's newest property, the luxurious and authentically western White Buffalo Club. We walked through some of the rooms, complete with full kitchens, granite counter tops, deep soaking tubs, washer/dryer and cozy king beds. After that, we wandered onto the Terrace, which overlooks the town and welcomes visitors who want to warm up by the indoor/outdoor fireplace, grab a bite from the restaurant's renowned menu (we got to try some gaszpacho, crab cakes, sliders and steak and the food got a resounding A++ from all of us) or simply relax in the fresh mountain air.

The White Buffalo Club features spa services, a fitness center, high-end steak house-style restaurant, meeting room and acclaimed western art. Book a four night stay now and you'll receive the fifth night free! Call for more information, 888-838-6606.

During my visits to Facebook last week, I noticed a friend was posting iPhone self portraits from a series of small towns across the Southwest. Considering that she's a travel writer and contributor for the Lonely Planet travel publications, I asked if she was "working." She replied that she wasn't, actually. She was simply on a cross-country road trip, documenting the tiny towns and quirky details along the way.

Inspired, I did the same thing on a recent trip returning to Jackson from a long weekend in Montana. Although the small towns and hidden valleys that exist just beyond Jackson's borders are oft forgotten, they offer up some pretty astonishing views. Below are a few suggestions for memorable vantage points and panoramic material in and around Jackson Hole. But I encourage you to go exploring and find some additional quirky photo ops of your own. In Jackson, they exist around every corner.

Obvious:
1. Antler Arches in Town Square: A little bit cheesy and a lot iconic, these arches provide the perfect framing opportunity.
2. Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park: An obvious must on any trip to the area.
3. Inspiration Point in Grand Teton National Park: The name says it all.
4. The Elk Refuge: Located just beyond the town of Jackson, the Elk Refuge and its thousands of elk residents give you a backdrop that people back home will find hard to believe.

Not-so Obvious:
1. The Top of Rendezvous Mountain via the Aerial Tram: Between the ride up in Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's new aerial tram and the view you'll enjoy at the top, this is one of Jackson's treasured vantage points.
2. Soaking in the Boiling River near Mammoth Hot Springs in YNP: This surreal venue dumps therapeutic hot spring mineral water into the refreshing Yellowstone River. Give your photo album a fantastical effect by having someone grab your picture amidst the steamy soaking spot.
3. Teton Backdrop from the New Multi-use Bike Path: We encourage you to rent a bike in the Town of Jackson or Moose and wheel your way through GTNP on the new bike path. Don't forget to grab a shot of of the towering Tetons in the background.
4. The Deck at Dornan's: A favorite summer stop, swing into Dornan's after a day in Grand Teton National Park and take a picture of your bottle of chilling wine (the wine store at Moose offers one of the best selections in the Valley) with the Snake River winding through the foreground and the Tetons staring straight back at you.

If You Have Some Time and Some Luck:
1. The View from the Top of Teton Pass: If you're driving into Jackson from "The Other Side", a.k.a. Idaho, pull over at the top and peer down. You'll soon understand how Jackson Hole got its name by taking a look at the valley floor surrounded by towering peaks.
2. A Grizzly Bear in Yellowstone National Park: Spotting some sort of wildlife in YNP is pretty much a guarantee, although the elusive Grizzly bear might be harder to see. Take your time and keep your eyes peeled when passing boggy, marshy areas... or anywhere there might be berries. If you do get out of your car to snap a shot, make sure there's ample space between you and the Griz.
3. The Ultimate Jackson Hole Photo Op: Probably one of the most coveted views in the area is that from the top of Grand Teton. If you're looking for an adventure, a challenge and some summit exposure to commemorate both, a guided trip up the Grand Teton is for you. Contact EXUM Guides for more information.

In the town where winter never truly sleeps, Teton Gravity Research presents its "Almost Live" web series. The Jackson Hole-based, internationally-recognized action sports film company is making the most of its revamped website, inviting users to take a sneak peak into this year's ski film, RE:Session. The web series offers weekly in-the-making snippets of the ski film that will be released in September. From a trip with athletes through Eastern Europe to Sammy Carlson's recent slopeside stomp session at Steven's Pass in Washington, Almost Live aims to bring viewers a glimpse of what's to come and to make sure that, despite serious summer fun in Jackson Hole, winter is always at the back of our minds. Check out the webseries on TGR's website and make sure to check in weekly for the most recently released Almost Live session.

The event lineup for Teton Village is packed full of great events and activities for the entire family. If you haven't ventured out to "The Vil" yet this summer, now is the time to see what's happening in the heart of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort:
  
June 10: Art & Antique Show by MC Presents
Teton Village hosts this high-end arts and antiques show in front of the classic Mangy Moose Saloon. 

June 20: Aerofest 2009
Known as one of the top spots for paragliding in the country, Jackson Hole's Rendezvous Mountain offers a supreme launch pad and the thermals above the resort keep flyers high. This great event includes Hike and Fly, Spot Landing, Thermal and XC Clinic, and Aerobatic Demonstrations. There will also be a party, BBQ, raffle and music. 

June 20: JH Sports 4th Annual Disc Golf Series
Jackson Hole Sports Disc Golf Series hosts competitions once a month through the summer. The summer series kicks off on June 20th so get your friends together and head to the Village for some great team play!
 
June 20: UCJH Mounatin Bike Skills Clinic
Amanda Carey hosts the United Cyclists of Jackson Hole's free mountain bike skills clinic at Teton Village.
 
June 21: Summer Solstice & Family Fun Day
Activities and food for families throughout the day!
  
June 27: Jackson Hole Half Marathon
For those looking to complement their summer fun with a little fun and friendly competition, the Jackson Hole Half Marathon offers a great opportunity. The race starts in Teton Village and finishes in the Town of Jackson in Phil Baux Park. 

June 26 - 18: Jackson Hole Wine Auction
This renowned event is the acclaimed Grand Teton Music Festival's largest annual fundraiser and promises to be the pinnacle of food and wine experiences in the West. If you're a foodie, wino or music lover, make sure to get your tickets now.  
 

If you haven't already taken advantage of the great summer lodging deals in Jackson Hole yet, now is your chance! However, do it quickly because many of these great discounts need to be booked soon before they expire. If you live in Jackson and have family or friends visiting this summer, make sure to let them know about these special travel offers through Jackson Hole Central Reservations. All special rates must be booked over the phone so call today, 888-838-6607.

30% OFF all Snow King and Love Ridge condos this summer: Book by June 15th!

Jackson Hole Resort Lodging: Book 3 nights and get the 4th night FREE: Book by July 1st.

Book 4 nights and get the 5th night FREE at the luxurious Teton Club. Receive a FREE park pass with your stay!

Book before July 15th and receive up to 40% OFF at the AAA Four Diamond Snake River Lodge and Spa.

Book 3 nights and get the 4th FREE at Spring Creek Ranch & Spa overlooking Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.

And you'll find discounted rates at these other classic Jackson properties: The Ranch Inn in downtown Jackson and The luxurious Rusty Parrot Lodge.

It's true that the trails winding out of and around the town of Jackson are widely known to mountain bikers nation-wide. However, Teton Pass boasts some of the most epic, and less recognized cross-country and downhill mountain biking around. If you haven't ridden the roller-coaster ride of a trail down Black's Canyon, tested the newly constructed cross-country Arrow Trail or (for the really, really, really brave and highly advanced riders out there) launched yourself and your downhill bike down Jimmy's Mom, you're missing out on a great aspect of Jackson Hole biking. Whether you're a long-time hucker or a newbie looking to test the waters on the pass trails this summer, we encourage you to head out to Wilson on Saturday, June 6th for the annual Teton Freedom Riders' Volunteer Dig Day. Hosted by the great folks at Wilson Backcountry Sports, Pica's West and the Tram Bar, this is a great opportunity to help maintain the trail system many will be riding all season long.

Volunteers will meet at Trail Creek Trailhead at the base of Old Pass Road at 10am (dig 'till dark). From there, they will be directed and shuttled to their respective digs throughout the day. Per the Teton Freedom Riders' announcement, volunteers are encouraged to bring extra food, water and beer. Some food will be provided by Pica's West and the Tram Bar and Wilson Backcountry Sports will be hosting a raffle. Bring work gloves; the hearty folks of Teton Freedom Riders dig rain or shine! For more information, contact Kevin Kavanagh: kckevlar@hotmail.com or visit tetonfreedomrider.org.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has long positioned itself as a unique summer mountain experience. From soaring away from the top of Rendezvous Mountain on a tandem paraglider to hiking, mountain biking, frisbee golf and live performances by the acclaimed Grand Teton Music Festival, your visit to Teton Village during the summer months is sure to be a memorable one.

This summer, the excitement continues with the introduction of "The Deck" at the gondola summit. Located on the deck of the beautiful Couloir Restaurant, visitors will be able to enjoy wine, beer, original cocktail recipes and a creative menu of small and shared plates. Enjoy Happy Hour from 5:30pm to 6:30pm with two-for-one margaritas, refreshing mojitos, house beer and wine by the glass.

Join Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for the Opening Night of The Deck on Friday, June 26th with free food, live music and two-for-one drinks. The Deck will be open five nights a week throughout the summer starting July 3rd.