The Jackson Hole Town Square Shootout is more than just evening entertainment; it’s a beloved, enduring tradition steeped in Wild West lore that plays out on center stage in downtown Jackson every summer.
The Jackson Hole Shootout takes place Monday through Saturday at 6 p.m., running from Memorial Day through Labor Day, right on the northeast corner of the Town Square at Deloney and Center Streets. There’s no show on Sunday.
This free 20-minute performance is a lively dramatization of Old West justice, complete with cowboys, outlaws, saloon girls, and lawmen. Expect plenty of action, gunfire (don’t worry, they’re blanks), tense standoffs, dancing, singing, and even a rolling jail cell that adds to the fun and flair of this long-standing Jackson tradition.
What’s The Story Behind The Shootout?
America’s Longest-Running Shootout
Running since 1957, this is the longest continuously performed gunfight reenactment in the U.S.
The Legend of Clover the Killer
Centered on the tale of Clover the Killer, a notorious outlaw brought into town in shackles by the Cache Creek Posse. While attempts to hang him fail, either rescued by accomplices, a broken rope, or other mishaps, each night brings the same thrilling showdown.
Origins
Some say local businessmen dreamed it up in a tavern; others credit Clover himself. Regardless, the shootout became an immediate hit, and ever since, actors from the Jackson Hole Playhouse have kept the tradition alive for generations.
What to Expect
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Showtime | 6 p.m. sharp; arrive by 5:30 p.m. to get a good vantage point. |
| Cast | Talented local actors from Jackson Hole Playhouse, decked out as gunslingers and more |
| Atmosphere | Swirling smoke, gunshots, Old West tunes, immersive, family-friendly fun that lasts around 15 minutes |
Why The Shootout Endures
- Community Connection: Much more than a tourist attraction, this is a town tradition and your chance to step into a scene straight out of 19th-century frontier life.
- Continuity: With over 65 years of nightly performances (excluding Sundays) on weeknights, this is a living vestige of Jackson Hole’s Wild West heritage.
- Local Talent: The Jackson Hole Playhouse keeps it authentic and entertaining, showcasing local actors and Western flair.
Tips From A Local
- The show runs about 15 minutes. Plan dinner or shopping around it.
- Cameras and spectators are welcome; the show is a bit loud, close-up, and interactive.
- Bring your kids. Many families return year after year for the fun.
AntlersArch founder and the voice behind Teton Tattle.
