Events
Yosemite Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2024-2025
Yosemite National Park is a destination that captivates visitors year-round with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The park offers a variety of events that cater to all interests, from nature enthusiasts and history buffs to adventure seekers and families. Whether you’re visiting in the winter for a peaceful retreat or during the summer for vibrant festivals, Yosemite’s events enhance the experience of exploring this iconic national park.
January
Ranger-Led Snowshoe Walks
- Date: Every Saturday in January
- Location: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Join a park ranger for a guided snowshoe walk through the serene winter landscape of Yosemite Valley. This family-friendly event offers an opportunity to learn about winter ecology and wildlife in the park.
- Special Features: Free snowshoe rentals provided; ideal for beginners.
- Practical Info: Arrive early to secure a spot; dress warmly in layers.
Full Moon Snowshoe Hike
- Date: January 24, 2025
- Location: Badger Pass Ski Area, Glacier Point Road, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-8444
- Description: Experience the magic of Yosemite under the light of the full moon. This guided snowshoe hike takes you through snow-covered trails illuminated by moonlight, with breathtaking views of the park’s winter scenery.
- Special Features: A unique night-time experience; no prior snowshoeing experience necessary.
- Practical Info: Advanced booking required; dress in warm, waterproof clothing.
Yosemite Winter Club Ice Skating Party
- Date: January 31, 2025
- Location: Curry Village Ice Rink, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-8333
- Description: Celebrate winter with an evening of ice skating at the historic Curry Village Ice Rink. The Yosemite Winter Club hosts this annual event, featuring music, hot cocoa, and a cozy fire pit.
- Special Features: Historic setting, suitable for all ages.
- Practical Info: Ice skate rentals available on-site; dress in layers.
February
Firefall Viewing at Horsetail Fall
- Date: February 16-23, 2025 (peak viewing times)
- Location: El Capitan Picnic Area, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Witness the natural phenomenon known as the “Firefall,” where the setting sun illuminates Horsetail Fall, making it appear as though the waterfall is on fire.
- Special Features: A rare and spectacular visual event, best seen during clear skies.
- Practical Info: Arrive early to secure parking; bring a tripod for photography.
Presidents’ Day Weekend Celebration
- Date: February 15-17, 2025
- Location: The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
- Description: A weekend of historical talks, ranger programs, and special dining events celebrating the contributions of U.S. presidents to the preservation of Yosemite.
- Special Features: Themed dinners and talks by Yosemite historians.
- Practical Info: Reservations recommended for dining events; dress in business casual.
Yosemite Valley Art and Nature Festival
- Date: February 22-23, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0295
- Description: This festival celebrates the intersection of art and nature, featuring local artists, workshops, and guided nature walks.
- Special Features: Art exhibits, hands-on workshops, and opportunities to meet local artists.
- Practical Info: No entry fee; workshops may require a small fee for materials.
March
Yosemite Spring Equinox Celebration
- Date: March 20, 2025
- Location: Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Mark the beginning of spring with a sunrise celebration at Glacier Point. Rangers will lead a discussion on the significance of the equinox and its impact on Yosemite’s ecosystem.
- Special Features: Spectacular sunrise views over Yosemite Valley.
- Practical Info: Dress warmly; the road to Glacier Point may require tire chains.
Yosemite Conservancy Spring Bird Walk
- Date: March 15, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 379-2317
- Description: Join expert birders for a guided walk focused on spotting migratory birds returning to Yosemite. This event is perfect for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Special Features: Opportunity to see rare bird species.
- Practical Info: Bring binoculars; the walk is suitable for all ages.
Yosemite Falls Trail Opening Day
- Date: March 28, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Falls Trailhead, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate the reopening of the Yosemite Falls Trail after winter closures. This event includes a guided hike to the top of North America’s tallest waterfall.
- Special Features: Ranger-led hike with historical insights.
- Practical Info: Hike is strenuous; suitable for experienced hikers.
April
Yosemite Earth Day Celebration
- Date: April 22, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Village, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Yosemite’s Earth Day celebration features eco-friendly activities, educational booths, and ranger-led programs focused on conservation.
- Special Features: Family-friendly activities, live music, and local food vendors.
- Practical Info: Free entry; bring a reusable water bottle.
Mariposa Butterfly Festival
- Date: April 12-13, 2025
- Location: Mariposa County Fairgrounds, Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 966-2432
- Description: Celebrate the migration of monarch butterflies with a weekend of parades, educational exhibits, and butterfly releases.
- Special Features: Live butterfly releases, butterfly garden tours.
- Practical Info: Tickets available at the gate; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Yosemite Wildflower Walk
- Date: April 19, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Join a ranger-led walk to explore Yosemite’s stunning spring wildflowers. Learn about the various species that bloom in the valley during this season.
- Special Features: Expert insights into Yosemite’s flora.
- Practical Info: Bring a camera and water; easy trail suitable for all ages.
May
Yosemite Music Festival
- Date: May 24-26, 2025
- Location: El Capitan Meadow, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: A three-day outdoor music festival featuring local and regional bands, with performances ranging from folk to rock. The festival also includes food vendors and craft stalls.
- Special Features: Live music against the backdrop of Yosemite’s iconic granite cliffs.
- Practical Info: Tickets available online; bring a blanket or chair.
Yosemite Half Marathon
- Date: May 17, 2025
- Location: Wawona, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (801) 656-5897
- Description: This scenic half marathon takes runners through some of Yosemite’s most beautiful landscapes. The race ends in the historic town of Wawona.
- Special Features: Stunning views along the course; medals for all finishers.
- Practical Info: Register early; transportation provided from nearby hotels.
Yosemite Artisan Fair
- Date: May 31, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Village, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0295
- Description: Discover handcrafted goods from local artisans, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. This fair highlights the craftsmanship inspired by Yosemite’s natural beauty.
- Special Features: Live demonstrations by artisans.
- Practical Info: Free entry; bring cash for purchases.
June
Summer Solstice Celebration
- Date: June 21, 2025
- Location: Sentinel Dome, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate the longest day of the year with a guided sunset hike to Sentinel Dome, followed by a solstice ceremony.
- Special Features: 360-degree views of the park during sunset.
- Practical Info: Hike is moderate; bring a flashlight for the hike back down.
Yosemite Climbing Festival
- Date: June 14-16, 2025
- Location: Camp 4, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-8344
- Description: A gathering of climbers from around the world to celebrate Yosemite’s rich climbing history. The festival includes workshops, climbing competitions, and film screenings.
- Special Features: Meet legendary climbers, gear demonstrations, and clinics for all skill levels.
- Practical Info: Registration required for workshops; bring your own climbing gear.
Yosemite Photography Workshop
- Date: June 7-8, 2025
- Location: Ansel Adams Gallery, Yosemite Village, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-4413
- Description: Led by professional photographers, this workshop focuses on capturing the beauty of Yosemite through your lens. It includes field sessions and critiques.
- Special Features: Hands-on guidance in landscape photography.
- Practical Info: Advance registration required; bring your own camera and gear.
July
Yosemite 4th of July Fireworks Show
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Location: Curry Village, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display in Yosemite Valley. The evening includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
- Special Features: Fireworks over the backdrop of Yosemite’s majestic cliffs.
- Practical Info: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot; bring a blanket or chair.
Yosemite Theatre Summer Season
- Date: July 5-30, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center Theater, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Enjoy a series of live performances and films that explore the natural and cultural history of Yosemite. The theater’s summer season features both historical reenactments and nature documentaries.
- Special Features: Engaging storytelling and immersive experiences.
- Practical Info: Tickets available at the visitor center; suitable for all ages.
Yosemite Stargazing Party
- Date: July 19, 2025
- Location: Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Join rangers and astronomers for a night of stargazing under Yosemite’s dark skies. Telescopes are provided, and participants can learn about constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.
- Special Features: Perfect for amateur astronomers and families.
- Practical Info: Bring warm clothing; flashlights should be covered with red filters to preserve night vision.
August
Yosemite Wildflower Photography Workshop
- Date: August 2-3, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-4413
- Description: Capture the vibrant wildflowers of Yosemite with the guidance of professional photographers. This workshop focuses on macro photography and the best techniques to highlight floral details.
- Special Features: Instruction from experienced nature photographers.
- Practical Info: Bring your own camera and macro lens; advance registration required.
Yosemite Renaissance Art Exhibit
- Date: August 10-31, 2025
- Location: Yosemite Museum, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: This annual exhibit showcases contemporary art inspired by Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. The exhibit features paintings, sculptures, and photography.
- Special Features: Artworks that capture the spirit and beauty of Yosemite.
- Practical Info: Free entry; donations to the Yosemite Conservancy are appreciated.
Yosemite Jazz Festival
- Date: August 23-24, 2025
- Location: El Capitan Meadow, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Enjoy two days of live jazz performances set against the stunning backdrop of El Capitan. The festival features both local and national jazz artists.
- Special Features: Jazz in the great outdoors; food and beverage vendors on-site.
- Practical Info: Tickets available online and at the venue; bring a chair or blanket.
September
Yosemite Autumn Arts Festival
- Date: September 7-8, 2024
- Location: Mariposa Art Park, Mariposa, CA 95338
- Contact: (209) 966-2432
- Description: This festival celebrates the arts with a weekend of workshops, live performances, and art exhibits. The event highlights the work of local artists inspired by Yosemite.
- Special Features: Hands-on art workshops and live music.
- Practical Info: Free entry; some workshops may require a fee.
Yosemite Oktoberfest
- Date: September 21, 2024
- Location: Curry Village, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate the arrival of fall with Yosemite’s take on Oktoberfest, featuring craft beers, traditional German food, and live music.
- Special Features: Craft beer from local breweries; Bavarian-style entertainment.
- Practical Info: Tickets available online; lederhosen optional but encouraged.
Full Moon Hike to Taft Point
- Date: September 19, 2024
- Location: Taft Point Trailhead, Glacier Point Road, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Join a guided hike to Taft Point under the full moon. This moderate hike offers spectacular views of Yosemite Valley by moonlight.
- Special Features: Moonlit views of Yosemite Valley and El Capitan.
- Practical Info: Bring a flashlight with a red filter; dress warmly.
October
Yosemite Fall Colors Photography Workshop
- Date: October 5-6, 2024
- Location: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-4413
- Description: Capture the vibrant fall colors of Yosemite with professional guidance. This workshop focuses on techniques for photographing autumn landscapes.
- Special Features: Instruction on capturing fall foliage and scenic vistas.
- Practical Info: Bring your own camera and lenses; registration required.
Yosemite Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
- Date: October 14, 2024
- Location: Yosemite Museum, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Yosemite’s indigenous peoples with traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
- Special Features: Cultural demonstrations and performances by Native American groups.
- Practical Info: Free entry; suitable for all ages.
Yosemite Halloween Bash
- Date: October 31, 2024
- Location: Curry Village, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Celebrate Halloween in Yosemite with a costume contest, trick-or-treating, and spooky stories around the campfire.
- Special Features: Family-friendly event with activities for all ages.
- Practical Info: Dress in your best costume; free entry.
November
Yosemite Veterans Day Ceremony
- Date: November 11, 2024
- Location: Yosemite National Cemetery, El Portal, CA 95318
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Honor the service of U.S. veterans with a ceremony held at Yosemite National Cemetery. The event includes a wreath-laying ceremony and guest speakers.
- Special Features: A solemn and respectful ceremony to honor veterans.
- Practical Info: Free entry; dress warmly.
Yosemite Autumn Bird Walk
- Date: November 9, 2024
- Location: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Join a guided bird walk to observe migratory birds as they pass through Yosemite in the fall. Perfect for birdwatchers of all levels.
- Special Features: Opportunity to spot rare bird species.
- Practical Info: Bring binoculars and a bird guide; suitable for all ages.
Thanksgiving Feast at The Ahwahnee
- Date: November 28, 2024
- Location: The Ahwahnee Dining Room, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
- Description: Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast in the elegant surroundings of The Ahwahnee Dining Room. The menu features gourmet dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients.
- Special Features: A lavish dining experience with historic ambiance.
- Practical Info: Reservations required; dress in smart casual.
December
Yosemite Holiday Craft Fair
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Location: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-0200
- Description: Shop for handmade gifts and crafts at this festive holiday fair. Local artisans offer a range of products, from jewelry to home décor.
- Special Features: Unique, handcrafted holiday gifts.
- Practical Info: Free entry; bring cash for purchases.
The Ahwahnee Christmas Feast
- Date: December 25, 2024
- Location: The Ahwahnee Dining Room, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
- Description: Celebrate Christmas with a grand feast at The Ahwahnee, featuring a menu of traditional holiday dishes and decadent desserts.
- Special Features: Live music and a festive atmosphere.
- Practical Info: Reservations required; dress in formal attire.
Yosemite New Year’s Eve Gala
- Date: December 31, 2024
- Location: The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Contact: (209) 372-1400
- Description: Ring in the new year with a glamorous evening of dining, dancing, and entertainment at The Ahwahnee. The event includes a multi-course dinner and live music.
- Special Features: Champagne toast at midnight; elegant ballroom setting.
- Practical Info: Tickets required; dress in formal or cocktail attire.
Planning Your Visit
Yosemite’s year-round calendar of events offers something for every type of traveler, from the quiet solitude of winter snowshoe walks to the vibrant celebrations of summer festivals. These events provide unique opportunities to experience Yosemite in a different light, whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or history buff. By planning your visit around these special events, you can enhance your Yosemite adventure and create lasting memories.
Final Thoughts
Yosemite National Park is not only a destination for breathtaking natural beauty but also a hub of cultural and historical events that enrich the visitor experience. Whether you’re drawn to the peacefulness of a winter solstice hike, the excitement of a summer music festival, or the warmth of a holiday feast, there’s an event in Yosemite to suit every interest. Explore, engage, and enjoy all that Yosemite has to offer throughout the year.
