Trailing of the Sheep Festival

The Trailing of the Sheep Festival, a celebration that has earned the distinction of being one of the Top Ten Fall Festivals in the World, is an annual event that takes place in the heart of Idaho’s Wood River Valley, specifically in the towns of Ketchum, Hailey, and Sun Valley. This festival, now in its 29th year, is set to unfold from October 8-12, 2025.

This event is a treasure trove for a diverse range of attendees, including families, music enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of sheep ranching. The festival attracts a broad spectrum of visitors, from locals who have grown up with the annual sheep migrations to new residents and tourists eager to experience the authentic traditions of Idaho’s sheep herding communities. Notable guests and performers include Basque, Scottish, and Peruvian cultural groups, reflecting the multicultural roots of the region’s sheep ranching history.

The festival spans five days, packed with a variety of activities that cater to all interests. Each day is filled with vibrant events such as dancing performances, live music, wool classes, lamb dinners, and cooking classes. One of the festival’s highlights is the Big Sheep Parade, a spectacle that showcases the iconic sheep migration through the streets of Ketchum and Hailey. Other notable events include sheep dog trials, which demonstrate the skill and intelligence of these working dogs, and storytelling sessions that delve into the history and anecdotes of the sheep ranchers.

The setting for this festival is as picturesque as it is historic. Ketchum, Hailey, and Sun Valley are nestled in the Wood River Valley, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and long history of sheep ranching. The first sheep were introduced to this valley in the 1860s, and by the early 20th century, Ketchum was one of the largest sheep shipping centers in the world. Getting to the festival is relatively straightforward, with the nearest airport being the Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey. The area is also accessible via highways, and local transportation options are available for those without cars.

The Trailing of the Sheep Festival is a unique and enriching experience that offers something for everyone. It is a celebration of the annual migration of sheep from high mountain summer pastures to their winter grazing areas, a tradition that has been ongoing for over 150 years. The festival grounds come alive with the sounds of music and laughter, the aromas of lamb dinners and local cuisine, and the vibrant colors of traditional Basque, Scottish, and Peruvian attire.

One of the signature experiences of the festival is the opportunity to witness the sheep migration firsthand. Visitors can watch as thousands of sheep make their way through the valley, guided by skilled herders and their dogs. The festival also features a multitude of vendors selling handmade crafts, wool products, and local foods, allowing attendees to take a piece of the region’s culture home with them.

For foodies, the festival offers a culinary journey with lamb dinners and cooking classes that highlight the traditional recipes of the sheep ranching communities. Music lovers can enjoy performances by local and regional bands, while families can participate in wool classes and other interactive activities.

The festival’s energy is palpable, with a sense of community and tradition that is rare in modern events. It is a celebration that honors the past while embracing the present, making it an event that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. Whether you are drawn by the history, the culture, the food, or the natural beauty of the Wood River Valley, the Trailing of the Sheep Festival is an experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.