TETON VILLAGE, Wyo. — Those who’ve been know the sense of excitement—for all things winter, deep powder, and the fabulous party ahead!—that kicks in when you arrive in Teton Village for the annual Black Tie, Blue Jeans Ski Ball hosted by Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club (JHSC).
On a late-September evening, as you load the Bridger Gondola, you can actually feel winter fast approaching: the cool air on your face, the golden sea of aspen leaves awash on the lower mountain, and that crisp, yet earthy fall scent as you ride up the mountain.
In a mere 10 minutes, the gondi ride up to Rendezvous Lodge transports you from scenic serenity (not to be underappreciated in this valley!) to what some have called the rockingest party in Jackson Hole.
The JHSC’s Black Tie, Blue Jeans Ski Ball is back for its 33rd year, and the Club couldn’t be more excited to welcome guests back to an in-person event for their annual gala fundraiser, supporting their 500 student-athletes.
Every September, JHSC throws one of the best parties of the year to kick off the upcoming season, celebrating the joy of Jackson winter and the youth snowsports culture that has been thriving in this valley since long before Teton Village even existed.
Jackson’s oldest nonprofit, JHSC has been serving the youth of the valley in competitive snowsports since 1938, expanding its partner venues from its early days at Snow King Mountain to include, as they came into being, Trail Creek Nordic Training Facility and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
While the Ski Ball is the Club’s gala fundraiser, the focus feels different than that of other parties because it really is all about the kids: have all the fun you want, and all proceeds support JHSC’s alpine, backcountry, freeride and Nordic programs and ensure access for all kids to the winter sports culture of Jackson Hole.
The Ski Ball has something for everyone: after you ride up the mountain, toasting champagne with your friends, the evening only gets better. This year’s celebration features the generous donation of specialty cocktails by Jackson Hole Still Works and luxurious wines from Westside Wine & Spirits; dinner will be prepared by JHMR’s Chef Michael Britton. The event features an incredibly packed silent auction, with packages in nine categories that range from exotic trips to “staycation” lodging and dining, spa experiences to outdoor adventures.
At 9 p.m., the drawing for the winner of the famous Grand Raffle has everyone waiting with bated breath—because who wouldn’t like a trip to a Four Seasons Resort? Since they arrived in Jackson 14 years ago, the Four Seasons Jackson Hole has generously donated a stay for the ball’s Grand Raffle prize: this year’s four-night stay is at the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos Costa Palmas, on two miles of untouched beachfront on the Sea of Cortez, and includes airfare for two, donated by Aspen Travel.
While anyone can participate remotely in the silent auction via the Handbid app, and one need not be present to win the Grand Raffle prize, it’s still way more fun to do all of this among an 84-years strong community of friends and supporters who love to party almost as much as they love skiing and snowboarding (and that’s a LOT).
So, here are the top five of many reasons to join JHSC at the Ski Ball:
5. ‘Cause you just need a good dance party! The ball’s known for it. Bust all your moves to DJ Simontaneous’ high-energy set!
4. You can grab some GREAT deals on amazing prizes at the silent auction. You want to get down and dirty on some trails? Grab a guided adventure or international trip! Need a gift for a friend? Pick up jewelry by local artists, or maybe a food and wine bundle from local providers. Need to check out for a day? Grab a spa package or massage! There really is something for everyone.
3. See all your friends at the party: how awesome does that feel? How to make this happen, you wonder? Share this article, send them the event webpage, invite them, or, be that good friend and buy a table and bring ‘em all!
2. It’s maybe the one “socially acceptable” time to download a lift at JHMR. Sadly, the party up top does end, but it moves straight down to the Mangy Moose (you’ll just have to walk instead of ski through the Village Commons).
The number one reason to attend the Black Tie, Blue Jeans Ski Ball?
1. SUPPORT the 500 student-athletes of the JHSC! Your good times = the kids’ good times. All event proceeds keep snowsports accessible to every valley kid. Our program offerings continue to expand and grow, and last year, the Club was able to award over $100,000 in scholarships, thanks to your generous contributions.
We hope to see you there! Tickets are available for individuals and tables for four to 12 guests.
