American Lamb Board Hosts Lambassadors at the Iconic Trailing of the Sheep Festival in Ketchum, Idaho
The American Lamb Board (ALB) recently hosted a group of Lambassadors—a talented mix of chefs, influencers, and recipe developers—at a unique educational retreat during the renowned Trailing of the Sheep Festival in Ketchum, Idaho. The multi-day event was packed with enriching experiences, including interactive ranching discussions and thrilling culinary competitions. Attendees left the event inspired and connected to both the local culture and the lamb industry.
“Lambassadors help reach millions of consumers with information about American Lamb, and events like this help those sharing our messages understand the industry on a deeper level,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. “It’s a great way to connect and educate with influential partners sharing the American Lamb story.
Sheep Ranching Q&A with Local Idaho Ranchers
The retreat began with a captivating Sheep Ranching Q&A session hosted by local Idaho ranchers. The Lambassadors gained valuable insights into sustainable ranching practices, heard personal stories from the ranchers, and got a behind-the-scenes look into sheep farming. It was an eye-opening experience highlighting the dedication and hard work of those involved in this essential industry.
For the Love of Lamb Dine Around
Later, the group indulged in the For the Love of Lamb Dine Around, where local restaurants in downtown Ketchum showcased their best lamb-centric dishes. Attendees savored 11 different lamb bites, each crafted by the area’s top chefs, spotlighting the talent and creativity that make Idaho’s culinary scene so vibrant.
Sheepdog Trials & Folklife Fair
The following day, participants were treated to the spectacle of the Sheepdog Trials. They marveled as expertly trained dogs, alongside their handlers, demonstrated their impressive herding skills. The precision and teamwork on display were awe-inspiring. Following the trials, the group immersed themselves in local culture at the Folklife Fair, where vibrant traditional music, dancing, and artisan crafts offered a rich glimpse into Idaho’s heritage.
Curated Culinary Competition
That evening, the Sun Valley Culinary Institute hosted a Chopped-style culinary competition, where the Lambassadors tested their skills! Each participant received a mystery basket filled with unique ingredients to incorporate into dishes featuring ground and leg of lamb. The creative energy was palpable as the chefs raced against the clock, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. After a challenging round of judging, a winner was crowned, and everyone enjoyed the delectable creations over a group dinner.
Big Sheep Parade
The retreat concluded with the iconic Big Sheep Parade down Ketchum’s Main Street. Attendees watched in awe as more than 1,200 sheep made their annual migration to winter pastures, creating a truly unforgettable and heartwarming moment. This beloved tradition was the perfect finale to a weekend filled with cultural appreciation, culinary inspiration, and a deepened connection to the people who bring lamb from pasture to plate.