News From the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Get ready for a whimsical takeover! Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places is thrilled to announce the launch of their newest interactive winter exhibit, "Yeti Ford Alpine Adventure," featuring a dazzling display of large yetis transformed into unique works of art created by local students.

This exhibit is a true celebration of community partnership, creativity, and the joy of winter, bringing together Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places, and students from Homestake Peak School, Red Sandstone Elementary, Vail Mountain School and Vail Ski and Snowboard Academy.

"Seeing the talent and imagination of our local students brought to life on these giant yetis is truly inspiring. It underscores our commitment to making the Gardens a place where nature and local art intersect—even the mythical kind," said Gabe Starr, Education Director at the Gardens.

The project would not have been possible without the Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places. They provided students with a unique canvas and artistic inspiration: seven-foot-tall, plywood blank yeti figures created by the Town of Vail’s Carpenter’s Shop. Over the past few weeks, young artists have been meticulously designing and painting their yetis, turning them into vibrant, one-of-a-kind masterpieces inspired by famous artists, such as Vincent Van Gogh, Keith Haring, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse. The sponsoring partners also created artful yetis. Enjoy a Georgia O’Keeffe inspired yeti created by the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and a Piet Mondrian inspired yeti created by the Art in Public Places Board.

"Art in Public Places is dedicated to making art accessible and engaging for all. By facilitating a public stage for our local students’ work, we not only foster their artistic development but also strengthen the bond between our schools and the wider Vail Valley community," said Molly Eppard, Town of Vail Art in Public Places Coordinator. "Great appreciation is extended to the students and their amazing art teachers who truly made this event possible."

The newly painted yeti masterpieces are installed throughout Ford Park and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens ready to greet the public with their friendly and towering presence.

When: Dec. 18 through March 2026.

Where: Ford Park - Lower Bench (expect snow packed paths and winter conditions).

Cost: Free and open to the public, daily from dawn until dusk.

The public is invited to visit the Gardens, complete a Yeti Scavenger Hunt - details available at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Education Center, and enjoy this unique winter experience.

 
For more news about Art in Public Places, visit vail.gov/government/artinvail.