When Jenny Dupre and Brandon Kuvara caught wind that the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals were coming to Sun Valley, they were overcome with excitement and consumed with the call to be a part of this cultural happening.
After years of anticipation, the fusion of skiing, entertainment and cuisine is returning to the Bald Mountain slopes and Ketchum streets with the launch of 5850 Fest. This vibrant cultural event, organized by 5B Productions, will coincide with the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals in March 2025.
5850 Fest kicks off its inaugural celebration the entire week of March 20-27. The festival aims to celebrate Sun Valley’s ski heritage while establishing a foundation for future events in 2027 and 2029.
For the better part of a decade—or longer—there has been a beckoning for a ski and entertainment fusion that has finally been channeled and brought back to Bald Mountain and Ketchum.
5850 Fest kicks off its inaugural celebration the entire week of March 20-27.
The brains behind the event, Jenny Dupre and Brandon Kuvara, bring extensive experience and passion to the table. Dupre, known for her work with the Sun Valley Film Festival and Sun Valley Symphony, partnered with Kuvara, owner of Whiskey’s on Main in Ketchum and ambassador to the U.S. Ski Team, to form 5B Productions. Their mission: to unite the community, elevate Sun Valley’s global profile, and support U.S. skiing initiatives.
“We’re bringing our passion and excitement to create something truly special for our town,” said Dupre. “It’s not just about 2025—it’s about building an infrastructure for years to come.”
In partnership with the International Ski Federation (FIS), Sun Valley Resort is hosting the World Cup Finals, managing the races and the athletes and overseeing mountain logistics. Meanwhile, 5850 Fest ensures the celebration extends well beyond the slopes. “The fun doesn’t stop after the races,” added Kuvara. “We’re creating a fantastic party for the community and showcasing Sun Valley.”
The weeklong festival, which will be held across Forest Service Park, Main Street and Town Square, will feature live music, culinary experiences and public activations. Free events will dominate the programming, while VIP packages include exclusive access to sponsor lounges, chef-driven dinners, and meet-and- greet opportunities with musical artists and celebrity chefs. The VIP packages are also in partnership with The Argyros Theater in Ketchum. High-profile figures from “Top Chef ” and other culinary stars will headline the gastronomic lineup.
Beyond entertainment, 5850 Fest aims to make an impact. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, which will support athletes’ preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
It was essential to showcase Ketchum and highlight the area. With a robust summer and winter tourism industry, being a small business owner became one motivating factor for Kuvara.
“It’s about keeping these athletes and events on U.S. soil,” said Kuvara. “So, if Jenny and I can do one little piece of the puzzle and put on a good show, sign me up. It’s also about helping the development of our ski team. You know, having these athletes and events in the U.S. and not Europe is a positive for the U.S. Team and future Olympians.”
Kuvara and Dupre credit local support, including collaboration with the City of Ketchum and Sun Valley Resort, with bringing their vision to life. Having a partnership with Ketchum and a tight knit friendship with Sun Valley Resort and the U.S. Ski Team, 5B Productions still remains an independent entity focused on celebrating the community and creating unforgettable experiences.
The inaugural 5850 Fest promises to highlight Sun Valley’s charm, combining sports, entertainment, and culinary excellence while drawing global attention. Dupre noted, “The world is watching, and we’re ready to show them what makes Sun Valley special.”