Conversation for the Community
The Jackson Hole Book Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that expands our community’s established love of books, learning, and literature, discourse, conversation with free activities and events. We are dedicated to bringing world-renowned authors and thinkers to the Teton region for public conversations that inspire, educate, and connect our community. Since our first Festival in 2024, we have hosted dozens of acclaimed, award winning writers – from Pulitzer Prize winners to debut novelists – in intimate settings that foster genuine dialogue.
Our Values & Mission
Everything we do is guided by these core pillars — the foundation of our work in the community.
Connection
Building deeper connection through the written word helps to strengthen our community, as we find common ground through civilized conversation and the sharing of ideas.
Creativity
Go where you may have never considered going through stories that thrill readers with creativity, imagination, dogged reporting, researching, and captivating writing.
Conversation
Explore and exchange new ideas, issues, and experiences with prominent authors, thinkers and your fellow readers. Spend the day learning and growing through spirited dialogue.
Celebration of All Things Literary
Celebrate and pay tribute to this year’s writers and thinkers who will bring their wisdom and creativity to Jackson for a full day of Conversation for the Community.
In 2022, Wilson resident Sharon Felzer was inspired to create a platform in the Teton Valley for ideas, informed discourse, and thoughtful, civil conversation – centered on the written word and all things literary – leading to the establishment of an annual, free, open-to-all Book Festival.
Sharon partnered with Kathleen Brown to launch the first Book Festival in 2024.
This vision of a daylong literary conversation has grown significantly, with the participation of hundreds of attendees and scores of generous donors. Featuring nationally acclaimed, award-winning writers and thinkers, the event has become a magnet for a range of authors to engage with a community of readers, where everyone can share spirited views and perspectives and find common ground.
The Book Festival has become a true Conversation for the Community.
Now in only its third year, it is clear that the Teton Valley and beyond embrace this annual Book Festival, where ideas can be celebrated and the written word can honor stories—both real and imagined—leading to greater conversation and understanding.
Our board of directors provide strategic leadership and guidance, ensuring the festival continues to grow and serve our community.
Sharon Felzer
President & Founder
Michele Gammer
Board Director
Perry Pidgeon Hooks
Senior Advisor
Ruth Marcus
Board Director
Visit Teton Valley
Extend your festival experience and explore everything Teton Valley has to offer — from stunning national parks to charming downtown shops and world-class dining.
Just minutes from town, explore one of America’s most iconic national parks with breathtaking mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.
Stroll through the charming town square with its famous elk antler arches, local shops, galleries, and world-class restaurants.
From hiking and fly-fishing to river rafting and horseback riding, Jackson Hole offers endless ways to experience the great outdoors.
Enjoy award-winning cuisine and cozy mountain lodges that make Jackson Hole the perfect destination for your festival visit.
A look back at some of our favorite moments from past Jackson Hole Book Festivals
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