Your Guide to Events in Sun Valley This Summer
If you're looking for a summer getaway that offers plenty of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere, Sun Valley, Idaho is the perfect destination. Located in the picturesque Wood River Valley, this charming mountain town is home to an abundance of recreational opportunities, from hiking and biking to fishing and golfing. And thanks to its prime location—nestled between the Sawtooth and Rocky Mountains—Sun Valley boasts some of the most incredible views in the country.
No matter what your interests are, there's sure to be an event or activity that appeals to you in Sun Valley this summer. Keep reading for our local's guide to a few of our favorite highlights.
Upcoming Events in Sun Valley, Idaho
You might know of Sun Valley for its skiing, but summer has become a busy season in our mountain town! There are a variety of events and activities taking place throughout the summer months, ranging from music festivals to farmers markets, shows, and more. Here are a few of our top picks.
The Sun Valley Music Festival
Known best by locals as "The Symphony," the Sun Valley Music Festival features "inspiring, admission-free concerts in a spectacular setting" from the Sun Valley Resort's pavillion. Recognized by BBC Music as one of the best classical music festivals in the country, the Sun Valley Music Festival also leads tuition-free music education programs that showcase young musicians, creating opportunities for "people from all walks of life to listen, learn, and play."
This year's summer season runs from late July through mid-August, with opening night scheduled for July 24, 2022. For more information and a complete schedule, visit their website.
Via hemispheresmag.com
Farmers Markets in the Wood River Valley
Whether you're staying at the resort and looking for something close to town or hoping to explore more of the Wood River Valley, there are multiple farmers markets hosted regularly throughout the summer. Stock up on fresh produce, local snacks and other treats, handmade goods, and more.
The Ketchum Farmers Market operates every Tuesday afternoon in the lower River Run parking lot at the base of Bald Mountain, open from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm. The market returns every week from June 14 to September 27, 2022.
Hailey's Farmers Market runs from June 11 to October 1, 2022, and is now open on Saturday mornings from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. This year, the Hailey market will return to its “new location” in Roberta McKercher Park just off Main Street on the south end of town. Come by for live music and ready-to-eat foods prepared by local vendors.
Learn more about the Wood River Farmers Market.
Via visitsunvalley.com
Sun Valley on Ice
Sun Valley on Ice is returning to the Sun Valley Resort ice rink this summer with a star-studded lineup of medal-winning skaters and the resident performing cast. Nathan Chen—reigning Olympic Gold Medalist, 3x World Gold Medalist, and 6x United States Gold Medalist—skate on July 16, 2022. Tickets sell out quickly, so don't wait if you want to grab a seat. Explore all dates and headliners at Sun Valley on Ice.
Via visitsunvalley.com
Free Live Music in the Wood River Valley (and Beyond)
Ketch'em Alive is a free, family-friendly summer concert series that takes place every Tuesday evening in historic downtown Ketchum's Forest Service Park. Starting at 6:30 pm, enjoy live music from local and regional performers across a variety of genres. See the full schedule online.
Hailey Alive is on Thursday nights in Hop Porter Park just outside of downtown Hailey, also featuring free live music. Hailey Alive runs from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm.
For jazz lovers, Jazz in the Park is open to the public every Sunday in Ketchum's Rotary Park. Starting Sunday, July 4, and running through August 1, 2022, enjoy live music from some of the best jazz musicians in the Wood River Valley. Bring the family, a picnic, and some low-back chairs—shows run from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm!
North of town, you can catch more free live music across different venues in the Sawtooth Valley and around Stanley, Idaho. Smiley Creek Lodge and Redfish Lodge regularly host live concerts.
Via visitsunvalley.com
Sun Valley Ballet Festival
The Sun Valley Ballet Festival is a summer event celebrating dance, music, and art. The festival runs for two weeks in early August and features performances from world-renowned ballet companies and dancers, free public events, educational opportunities, and more.
Via visitsunvalley.com
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, artistic inspiration, or simply a place to relax and enjoy the summer sun, Sun Valley has something for everyone. With so many events and activities happening throughout the summer season, now's the time to start planning your trip!
Looking for recommendations for things to do or see while you're in town? We're always here to be a local resource—just get in touch.