Despite the town being so remote, Sun Valley is an excellent place to enjoy live music. We invite bands of all sizes, popularity, and corners of the country to play in our beautiful neck of the woods so you (and everyone else) can get serenaded on a weekly basis. Whether you prefer to boogie in the afternoon or booty shake until the wee hours of the morning, you’re in luck! There’s a venue for every foot-stomper. Here are the places to enjoy live music in Sun Valley.
On the Slopes
For afternoon shows in the spring, catch bands at the base of Baldy on both sides of the mountain – Warm Springs and River Run – during your aprés debrief. The bands that are here can get anybody moving, even if your legs are jello-y from spring skiing.
Whiskey Jacques
Did you miss the band this afternoon? No worries, usually bands who play at the base of Baldy have an encore at Whiskey Jacques – late night edition! Get your ski boots off and plan for a night on the town. Whiskey’s is an old establishment on Main Street in Ketchum. The bar is so near and dear to local’s hearts that it was rebuilt after a fire nearly a decade ago. The stage is small, which makes for an intimate venue. Plus, there are two bars for you to order drinks from – convenience is king at this establishment. They also encourage patrons to play air hockey while taking a breather from the dance floor. You really can’t go wrong here.
The Lounge
Limelight’s Lounge is another place to chill out and see local musicians. Visit with friends over a beer and a pizza (or truffle fries – my personal favorite) and relax to acoustic, jazz, and folk sets. We have live music consistently Thursday through Monday during peak season (summer and winter). Plus, you can play shuffleboard and explore the dinner menu.
The Pavilion
In the summer, Sun Valley hosts a series of musical extravaganzas at the base of River Run and the Sun Valley Pavilion. Between the Summer Symphony and bands like Brandi Carlisle, Keb Mo’, The Head and the Heart, there’s music for every taste rolling through periodically. Check out their events calendar to see what’s in store this year.
Whether you choose to go to Whiskey’s, or enjoy an evening at the Pavillion, the live music in Sun Valley will inspire and delight in ways that big-city arenas can’t. Enjoy!
