Labor Day Weekend: Friday, August 29 – Sunday, August 31
Every Labor Day weekend, Ketchum hosts one of the most unique events in the Northwest: Wagon Days.
This isn’t just any parade – it’s a living homage to the mining roots and Western spirit that built our Wood River Valley, and it happens to be the largest non-motorized parade in the Pacific Northwest. It’s a fun and festive weekend for the whole family!
Where Did it Begin?
Long before Sun Valley became “America’s First Destination Ski Resort,” the Wood River Valley was booming with silver and lead. In the 1880s, settlers poured in during the mining rush, and Ketchum – originally named Leadville – was at the center of it all. Renamed after local trapper David Ketchum, the town became a busy hub for processing ore from the surrounding mountains. In 1884, the Union Pacific Railroad reached Ketchum transporting millions of dollars of galena ore and wealthy tourists to Guyer Hot Springs Resort. When silver prices took a dive in the 1890s, Ketchum became one of the largest sheep-shipping centers in the country. (There’s a unique festival for that too!)
What began in 1958 as a small local tradition commemorating Ketchum’s heritage, has grown into a can’t-miss, end-of-summer celebration, drawing over 15,000 visitors to town each year.
What to Expect at Wagon Days
Get ready for some Wild West cowboy culture! Wagon Days brings Ketchum’s mining history and western culture to life with museumquality carriages, buggies, and stagecoaches all parading down Main Street without a single motor in sight. Expect stunning horse-drawn teams, equestrian and cultural demonstrations, local food vendors, live music, and a one-of-a-kind Wild West parade that appeals to absolutely all ages!
Wagon Days Event Schedule
Friday, August 29
- Sun Valley Story Tour: Take a one-hour guided tour of the area’s most historic locales.
- Cowboy Poetry: Join Idaho Cowboy Poets as they share stories of times past at the Ore Wagon Museum.
- Grand Marshal’s Reception: Celebrate this year’s Grand Marshals in Ketchum Town Square.
Saturday, August 30
- Papoose Club Pancake Breakfast: Kick off the day with an all-you-can-eat country breakfast of pancakes and sausage in Ketchum Town Square.
- Children’s and Cultural Activities: Kids and families can explore pioneer life through interactive experiences including a petting zoo, face painting, crafts, and storytelling by the Northern Shoshone Band of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe.
- Horsemanship and Cultural Demonstrations: Witness incredible riding skills and Native American culture and traditions at Champions Meadow.
- The Big Hitch Parade: The grand finale! Watch in awe as six original Lewis Ore Wagons are pulled by a 20 Shire hitch team, navigating their sharp right turn onto Main Street like they did nearly a century ago.
- Wagon Days Street Party: It’s always a fun time at the Wagon Days Street Party, featuring Southern Country Blues singer/songwriter Chris Hennessee.
Sunday, August 31
- Papoose Club Pancake Breakfast: Fuel up again before hitting the trails, playing pickleball, or soaking up mountain views from the pool!
- The Revivalists: End your weekend on a high note with an epic live concert by The Revivalists, supported by Sons of Habit. Outdoor music, starry skies, and all the vibes.
Plan Your Visit!
Ready to start planning the perfect getaway this Labor Day Weekend? Be sure to check out our entire collection of Sun Valley vacation rentals and find the perfect homebase for your Wagon Days adventure. Book direct with us online to skip the booking fees and save big!
Where to Stay for Wagon Days in Ketchum
This weekend fills up fast, so book soon! Whether you’re looking for a modern condo in downtown Ketchum or a cozy western-themed stay that sets the tone for a Wild West weekend, Michael’s Vacation Rentals has your perfect Wagon Days home base. Come and celebrate the spirit of the West with us in our Sun Valley rentals in Ketchum this Labor Day Weekend: history, heritage, and hometown charm!
