Music Guaranteed to Rock the Tetons

Ok, maybe it was the Von Trapp Family who made magical tunes in the high altitude hills so famous in the “The Sound of Music” so many moons ago. But now, it’s the breathtakingly beautiful Teton Mountains that are keeping this tradition alive in the northern Rockies. The spectacular Teton Valley, in eastern Idaho, is quickly becoming a Mecca for quality summer music events and thus drawing visitors from all over North America to its lush countryside. This charming community, hugging the Wyoming border and a quick hop over Teton Pass from iconic Jackson Hole, has historically been recognized more for its famous potatoes, summer recreation and world-class skiing at neighboring Grand Targhee than for its cultural nourishment. However, the gig is up and the word is out that this low-key mountain community is home to not only some of the country’s most renowned musicians but also nationally recognized painters, sculptors, furniture makers, glass blowers, musicians, authors and filmmakers. It’s not difficult to understand why a creative force is blossoming in the shadow of the Tetons; the inspiration one can draw from the incredible beauty of this valley has the power to unleash the artist in all of us.

Visitors are drawn to Teton Valley this summer for a line-up guaranteed to excite any music aficionado coupled with a full schedule of outdoor adventures. Better plan on an extended stay. For many welcomed outsiders, the optimum home base for sampling this area’s wares just happens to be Teton Springs Lodge & Spa.

Located in the heart of Victor, Idaho, this four-season resort community is literally surrounded by the finest array of outdoor activities this area has to offer, the best of the west so to speak. Hang by the pool, tee it up on the award-winning Teton area Headwaters 18 hole golf course, cruise into the adjacent Caribou-Targhee National Forest on your fat tires, perfect your fly casting technique on the resort’s ponds and indulge in a massage. Or, simply take in Idaho’s most splendid scenery as the resident Bald Eagle soars overhead.

Only a driver and five iron shot away from the resort, you’ll take to the streets of Victor, 58 North Main Street to be exact, for “Music on Main.” Music on Main, compliments of the Teton Valley Foundation, is celebrating its 5th summer as a music force in Teton Valley, unifying community and visitors alike. This free series opens on July 15th and repeats every week through August 19 and consistently delivers on its promise to pack critically acclaimed bands into every Thursday session. Pack your lawn chairs and blankets and arrive hungry. There’s a diverse blend of local (Teton Valley) food and libation on site.

There’s barely time to sleep; the next stop on your Teton Valley magical music tour is the Grand Targhee 6th Annual Targheefest July 16-18. This low-key but immensely popular event offers the best of Americana and the mountains don’t remain quiet for long. The 23rd Annual Targhee Bluegrass Festival, the nationally recognized granddaddy of music festivals in the Rockies, kicks off on August 13th. Both events are definitely worth planning your Teton Valley vacation around. Targhee festivals take place on their intimate outdoor stage nestled in a band of Aspens and the hills definitely come alive for these events. A combination of premier performers, activities for the entire family, a relaxed, casual atmosphere all provide a two festival knock-out punch. The resort even provides free shuttle service from Driggs to this Alta, Wyoming, venue festival weekends and the nice folks at Teton Springs Lodge & Spa will help with any other transportation needs you may have

Other Noteworthy Teton Valley Music Extravaganzas:

July 10

Linn Canyon Ranch presents “Competitive Trail Challenge” – wannabe cowboys or those looking for a glimpse into the authentic west shouldn’t miss this event! Music by “The White Buffalo,” western arts & crafts, horse training demonstrations, silent auction and a whole lot more.

August 27

The Spud Drive In hosts the 2nd Annual “Casting 4 A Cure” concert to benefit the International Rett Syndrome Foundation (www.casting4acure.com) and presenting Chicago based “Freddy Jones with special guests Idaho’s Equal Eyes.” Teton Springs Lodge & Spa and the Teton Springs Foundation are proud sponsors of this wonderful event and be sure to check out all of the terrific special events happening at the historic Spud Drive In this Summer!

Call Teton Springs Lodge & Spa Lodge & Spa to secure your Teton Springs Lodge room/suite or luxury cabin in the Beautiful Teton Valley for this summer’s Magic Music Tour (toll free 877-787-8757). See you in Teton Valley and don’t forget those dancing shoes!