This Saturday, May 17, Jackson, Wyoming, will host ElkFest 2025, a cherished annual event that intertwines conservation, community spirit, and Western traditions. Centered around the world-renowned Elk Antler Auction, ElkFest offers a weekend filled with engaging activities for all ages.
🦌 Elk Antler Auction – The Heart of ElkFest
At the core of ElkFest is the World’s Largest Elk Antler Auction, commencing at 10:00 AM on Jackson Town Square. Each year, local Boy Scouts, under special permit, collect thousands of naturally shed elk antlers from the nearby National Elk Refuge. These antlers are then auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting both the Scouts and the Refuge.
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 17 | Auction starts at 10:00 AM
- Location: Jackson Town Square
- Admission: Free
In 2024, the auction featured over 8,000 pounds of antlers, raising more than $218,000. The funds support local Scouting programs and habitat enhancement projects on the Refuge, such as irrigation and weed management.
🏕️ Scouting Expo – Hands-On Family Fun
Adjacent to the auction, the Scouting Expo offers interactive demonstrations, outdoor skills workshops, and engaging activities for families. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the values and adventures of Scouting firsthand.
🏞️ A Tradition Rooted in Conservation
ElkFest traces its origins to 1968, when the inaugural antler auction was organized to support the National Elk Refuge and local Scouting initiatives. The Refuge itself was established in 1912 to protect the Jackson elk herd’s winter range, encompassing approximately 25,000 acres. Today, the Refuge is home to an average of 7,500 elk each winter.
The antlers sold at the auction are naturally shed by elk during spring migration. The partnership between the Refuge and the Boy Scouts ensures that these antlers are collected responsibly, with 75% of auction proceeds returning to the Refuge and 25% supporting Scouting programs.
🎉 More ElkFest Weekend Highlights
ElkFest is part of the broader Old West Days celebration, which includes:
- Mountain Man Rendezvous: May 16–26 at Teton County Fairgrounds. Experience a living history encampment showcasing 19th-century fur trade life.
- Living History of the American West: May 17–18 at Teton County Fairgrounds. Engage with reenactments and exhibits depicting frontier life.
- High Noon Chili Cook-Off: May 18 on Town Square. Sample a variety of chili recipes from local chefs and enthusiasts.
- Ultimate Towner Obstacle Race: May 18 in downtown Jackson. Participate in a community obstacle course adventure suitable for all ages.
🌟 Join the Celebration
ElkFest 2025 promises a weekend filled with tradition, community engagement, and appreciation for wildlife conservation. Whether you’re bidding on antlers, exploring historical reenactments, or savoring local chili, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
AntlersArch founder and the voice behind Teton Tattle.
