Celebrating Pioneer Day in Utah

On July 24, 1847, the Mormon pioneers first entered the Salt Lake Valley. Today, Utah celebrates the incredible journey those early settlers made to bring their families west and establish communities across the state. We remember those who faced incredible hardship crossing plains, rivers, and mountains, as well as those who gave their lives along the way. Every July, we honor the sacrifices and determination of those pioneers who helped build the Utah we enjoy today. Thanks to them, we have a beautiful and unique state to call home. Here are some of our favorite Pioneer Day events happening across Utah. We hope you have a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and tradition!

NORTHERN UTAH EVENTS

Bountiful Handcart Days (July 25 – 26)
Bountiful’s Handcart Days returns this July with two days of family fun at Bountiful City Park. This year’s festivities include a concert featuring Joshua Creek, plenty of food vendors, games, and a carnival. Saturday’s events kick off with a half-handcart marathon and conclude with the second-largest parade in Utah. Visitors can also enjoy pioneer-era demonstrations and a fireworks show to close out the celebration. More information here

Ogden Pioneer Days (July 18 – 24)
Ogden’s month-long celebration remains one of the state’s biggest. Highlights include concerts, parades, the PRCA Rodeo, devotional services, pageants, breakfasts, and fireworks. The Grand Parade is set for July 24 at 9:00 AM, and the rodeo events wrap up that same evening with a grand fireworks finale. More information here

Logan Pioneer Day Celebration (July 24)
Logan continues its tradition of fun with Pioneer Day activities for all ages. Events include a parade at 10:00 AM, a community breakfast, yoga, bingo, concerts, and fireworks to end the day. Recreational tournaments such as volleyball, basketball, soccer, and spikeball will also be held throughout the day. More information here

Wellsville Pioneer Day Activities (Throughout July)
Wellsville celebrates Pioneer Day all month long with events including a BBQ competition, train rides, pony rides, and family-friendly activities. The American West Heritage Center also hosts a special Pioneer Days program in early July, celebrating the area’s rich pioneer heritage. More information here

SOUTHERN UTAH EVENTS

St. George Pioneer Day Celebration (July 24)
St. George’s annual Pioneer Day celebration offers activities for every age. Events include a 5K run, parade, talent show, live music, kids’ activities, and much more. The evening wraps up with a fireworks show and a movie in the park. The day starts early with a parade at 8:00 AM, followed by festivities at Town Square Park until 10:00 PM. Fireworks launch at 9:00 PM at Greater Zion Stadium. More information here

CENTRAL UTAH EVENTS

Provo Pioneer Day Extravaganza (July 24)
Provo’s annual Pioneer Day Extravaganza will be held at North Park on 500 N. 500 West from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This year’s lineup includes a pie contest, live entertainment, games, crafts, competitions, rides, and a variety of food vendors. It’s a fun, family-focused way to honor Utah’s pioneer heritage.

Spring City Pioneer Day Celebration (July 24)
Spring City kicks off its Pioneer Day festivities with a traditional Fireman’s Breakfast at 7:00 AM, followed by a community parade down Main Street. Events continue throughout the day with games, contests, and family-friendly entertainment wrapping up around 7:00 PM. More information here

EASTERN UTAH EVENTS

Kamas Fiesta Days (June 19 – 24)
Fiesta Days in Kamas runs through June and culminates on July 24th with a special Pioneer Day program. Pioneer Day weekend will feature a fun run, breakfast, car show, chalk art, talent show, demolition derby, and a community dance. On July 24th, enjoy a patriotic program and family activities celebrating the town’s rich pioneer history. More information here

SALT LAKE AREA EVENTS

Salt Lake City – Days of ’47 (July 12 – 24)
The Days of ’47 celebration continues to be one of Utah’s most cherished traditions. This year’s events include pop concerts, the First Encampment Hike through Emigration Creek, cowboy games and rodeo, the Deseret News Marathon, a sunrise service, and the Days of ’47 Parade. More information here

Float Preview Party (July 21 – 22)
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Days of ’47 Parade floats at the annual Float Preview Party at the Mountain America Expo Center. Meet the designers and builders, and vote for your favorites. More information here

Days of ’47 Parade (July 24)
The Days of ’47 Parade remains a highlight of Pioneer Day in Utah. It begins at 9:00 AM at South Temple and State Street and runs through downtown Salt Lake City, featuring floats, bands, and equestrian groups honoring Utah’s pioneer heritage. More information here

This Is the Place Heritage Park (July 24)
A Pioneer Day visit to This Is the Place Heritage Park offers a glimpse into Utah’s pioneer past with traditional activities like gold panning, pony rides, and train rides. Special Pioneer Day traditions include a taffy cannon, games, donuts, and a watermelon-eating contest. The Huntsman Grill will serve lunch throughout the day. More information here

Keep exploring: Salt Lake City’s Days of ’47 | Utah’s Top 24th of July Events and Heritage Days

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