Jackson Hole Hootenanny Returns to The Wort Hotel for the Winter Season
The iconic Jackson Hole Hootenanny is back for the winter—and this year’s season will once again take place at The Wort Hotel in downtown Jackson, Wyoming. Every Monday at 6 p.m., guests and locals can gather inside the historic Silver Dollar Showroom for one of Jackson Hole’s most beloved live-music traditions.
Admission is free, and we kindly encourage guests to tip the musicians and enjoy a drink or a meal during the show.
A Beloved Jackson Hole Open Mic
The Hootenanny—known locally as “The Hoot”—is one of the most popular acoustic open mic nights in Jackson Hole. It fills up fast, offering musicians and music lovers the chance to experience an intimate, listening-focused crowd.
Sign-ups begin around 5 p.m. and performance slots tend to go quickly.
All performances are acoustic only. Musicians typically play two three-minute songs, or one song if the schedule is full. Traditionally, performers share one classic, “old enough to vote” tune along with one additional original or cover. The format is simple: keep introductions short, keep lyrics family-friendly, and honor the spirit of this welcoming, gentle audience.
What Is a Hootenanny?
The term “hootenanny” originated in Appalachian culture and evolved in the 1960s to describe informal folk-music gatherings. The Jackson Hole Hootenanny traces its roots to those early traditions, beginning when Bill Briggs brought musicians together for the legendary Teton Tea Party at Moose. In 1993, Briggs and Dick Barker revived the idea, giving rise to the Jackson Hole Hootenanny as we know it today.
A Stage for Local Legends and Rising Artists
Over the years, The Hoot has welcomed countless local musicians along with surprise drop-ins from legendary artists such as John Denver, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Peter Rowan, and Chuck Pyle. Unlike typical open mic venues, the Hootenanny focuses exclusively on traditional acoustic music. No amplification is used beyond two microphones, creating an authentic, stripped-down listening experience.
Spontaneous collaborations are part of the magic—musicians often join together for impromptu ensembles. Many performers have gone on to successful musical careers, including nationally recognized artists like Pete & Anne Sibley and Eric Stone, who found their voice on The Hoot stage.
A Timeless Jackson Hole Tradition
While the tradition continues to evolve, the heart of the Hootenanny remains unchanged. The show begins at 6 p.m. every Monday throughout winter, with many longtime performers returning week after week. Fans from near and far can also tune in online, as select performances will be broadcast on Silver Dollar TV.
Whether you're a musician looking to take the stage or a guest wanting to experience one of Jackson Hole’s most iconic winter events, the Jackson Hole Hootenanny at The Wort Hotel offers an unforgettable evening of live, acoustic music.
Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to grab a drink, enjoy a meal, and settle in for an intimate night of acoustic music in the Silver Dollar Showroom.
