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Salt Lake is your best guide to the Utah lifestyle. From food to fashion, travel and the arts, Salt Lake magazine has something for everyone. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @SLmag.

Jul 11
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Salt Lake Magazine’s Social Pages

By Community

Utah Bride & Groom 2023 White Party

May 2, 2023,
Photos by Pepper Nix

On May 2, 2023, Utah Bride & Groom magazine hosted the best of Utah’s wedding professionals at our first White Party since the worldwide shutdown. With a garden party theme and a freshly refurbished local venue, Fuse Weddings and Events coordinated a lavish return to live events. Three bands, a fascinating menu, and decor dressed to the nines in spring pastels welcomed the state’s industry in true luxury wedding style.


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  1. Makeup Artists: Reese Stockman, Beauty by Reese; Johan Goolcharan, Beauty by Johan; Darlene Wing, Beauty by Darlene 

  2. Garth Peay, Garth Custom, Hailey Arnold, Hail Photo Co.; Joslyn Poole, Metro Music Club; Arturo Hernandez, Garth Custom 

  3. Douglas Bethers, wedding officiant; Rachael Matsen, Silver Summit Events; Morgan Neilson, In Frames Photography  

  4. Mara Mazdzer, Fuse Weddings & Events; Megan Bartholomew, Utah Bride & Groom magazine; Cori Davis, Utah Bride & Groom magazine/Salt Lake magazine   

  5. Arely Zarate, Kianna Behunin, Michelle Armstrong, Kathryn O’Mara, Lora Anderson, Elizabeth Myers, Ballet Center Utah, Inc. 

  6. Alessandra Wortmann, Cake by Alessandra; Susie Young, Wish Blossom Flowers; Jenya Norman, Norman Weddings & Events; Pepper Nix, Pepper Nix Photographers   

  7. Lo Sheffield, Melanie Rossiter, Megan Bonham, Jenn Parry and Lauren Thompson; Twenty & Creek Staff

2023 Kilby Court Block Party

May 12–May 14, 2023, Utah State Fairpark,
Photos by Natalie Simpson/Beehive Photography

S&S Presents hosted the 2023 Kilby Block Party in May, and it was their biggest ticket yet. Headliners included The Strokes, Pavement and the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s, with plenty of supporting talent from acts like Japanese Breakfast, The Backseat Lovers, Hippo Campus, and many more. The strong rank of performers drew thousands of fans to Library Square, where festivalgoers got a taste of their very own Salt Lake Coachella (complete with overpriced food trucks and not enough shade structures). 


  1. Michelle Zauner, singer from Japanese Breakfast

  2. Festival goers dance at Gus Dapperton (Saturday)

  3. Utah band The Plastic Cherries  

  4. Festival goers at Run the Jewels (Saturday)  

  5. Singer Caroline Polachek   

  6. Festival goers at Crumb (Sunday)   

  7. Festival goers at Surf Curse (Sunday) 

  8. Lead singer and guitarist Joshua Harmon from the Utah band, The Backseat Lovers

The Aster Grand Opening

May 2, 2023,
Photos by Blake Peterson

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the Aster, a new mixed-use development in downtown Salt Lake City, centered around the promise of redemption amidts our housing-crisis. “There is such a sense of relief,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall at the ribbon-cutting. “There has never been a project quite like this.”


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  1. Erin Mendenhall, SLC Mayor    

  2. (Left to Right): John Crandall, Private Activity Bond Board; David Damschen, Utah Housing Corp; Karly Brinla, Brinshore Development; Whitney Weller, Brinshore Development; Christina Oliver, Utah Department of Workforce Services; Ana Valdemoros, SLC Council Member; Stephanie Ramirez, resident; James Ramirez, resident; Alejandro Puy, SLC Council Member; Erin Mendenhall, SLC Mayor; David Brint, Brinshore Development; Ryan Paszczykowski, Systima Capital; Michael Gallegos, Salt Lake County; Danny Walz, Salt Lake City Redevelopment Agency; Wayne Niederhauser, State Homeless Coordinator; Terry Gentry, The Richman Group   

  3. Stephanie Ramirez and her son, The Aster residents 

Anthony’s Antiques “Collecting James Taylor Harwood” Exhibition

April 20 – June 16, 2023,
Photos by Hannah Bromley


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4. Anthony Christensen, Founder of Anthony’s Fine Art and Antiques    5. Savannah Stephan and Micah Christensen: Authors and Curators of the “Collecting James Taylor Harwood” Exhibition.   6. Art lovers browse the exhibit

Call for photos

We welcome your photos of recent social events around Utah. Please send high-resolution photos (.jpg format) to jeremy@saltlakemagazine.com with the subject line “Social” and a package of images and event/caption information in a file transfer service we can access. Submissions must be accompanied by names and a description of the event (who, what, when, where, why).

Jun 28
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Best of the Beehive 2023: Digging up Dinosaurs in Utah

By Best of the Beehive

We even have our own raptor named after us! Just as an example of our dinosaur discovery supremacy, more than 6,000 different fossils have been found at a single dig site in Emery County. Top paleontological spots to visit:

Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, near Price, has the densest concentration of Jurassic-era dinosaur fossils in the world, according to the Bureau of Land Management. More than 12,000 bones, belonging to at least 74 individual dinosaurs have been excavated here, with many of them on display throughout various museums in Utah.

The Quarry Exhibit Hall is a true paleontological marvel nestled within Dinosaur National Monument. This site contains towering rock walls embedded with countless dinosaur bones.

Ogden’s George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park boasts life-size dinosaur sculptures that transport visitors to a world long extinct. Discover more than 100 species of prehistoric creatures while strolling along winding paths of interactive, educational and entertaining exhibits.

Man touching fossils in Quarry Visitor Center exhibit hall in Dinosaur National Monument Park (Adobe Stock)

Stewards of Utah’s prehistoric past 

The Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU) might be the best place to learn about Utah’s prehistoric past and one of the best places to get up close with some extraordinary fossils—short of making it out to a paleontological excavation site itself (but we’ll get to that, too). What sets NHMU’s fossil collection apart from other museums is its focus. “One thing I really love about our exhibits—they’re really focused on the fossil record of Utah and Intermountain West, so there are exhibits that you can only see in our museum,” says Randall Irmis, Ph.D., Curator of Paleontology and Head Curator at NHMU and Associate Professor of Geology at the University of Utah. 

Irmis and members of his department split their time between working in the museum or the lab and prospecting or excavating fossils in the field. “Utah is the best single state or province in North America for understanding Earth’s past,” says Irmis. What makes Utah one of the best places to discover dinosaurs? “Our geology and our climate,” says Irmis. Most fossils are found in sedimentary rock, which Utah has in abundance, and, because we are a desert, the rocks are exposed rather than covered in vegetation, “which makes it easier to find those fossils and why we have such an amazing fossil record.”

Randall Irmis, curator of the Natural History Museum of Utah. Photo credit Mark Johnston

The fossils NHMU’s team excavates in the field might make it to the museum, but it takes a considerable amount of time and effort before the paleontologists are ready to reveal their findings to the public. 

“I hope, when people come to see what’s on display at the museum, they see how much Utah and the Intermountain West have changed over geologic time. It may be a high desert today, but, in the Late Cretaceous, it was a subtropical flood plain like Southern Louisiana.” And, at other times, Utah was covered in ocean. 

“There are so many amazing creatures from Earth’s past that draw the imagination, and Utah has become known for these weird and wonderful, extinct creatures. What’s so cool—whether you’re talking about dinosaurs, or soft-bodied animals that lived in the ocean—there are so many of these animals that we have the fossil record of. They’re not just something people dreamed up, these things existed.”

If you’re interested in volunteering with NHMU’s paleontology team, keep an eye on their website for calls for volunteers.

 

Jun 26
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Red, White, & BBQ: Celebrating July 4th in Salt Lake City

By Community

July 4th is right around the corner, and you know what that means—smokey BBQs, lively fairs, and brilliant fireworks shows! In order to make the most out of Independence Day, here is our list of the best July 4th happenings in and near Salt Lake City.

Stein Eriksen Lodge Hosts 4th of July BBQ

The Forbes Five-Star Stein Eriksen Lodge invites guests to the annual 4th of July BBQ on The Glitretind deck for a full spread of elevated backyard favorites. When America’s birthday party winds down, six weeks of Hops on the Hill kicks off, featuring local craft breweries and food pairings on Tuesday evenings beginning July 11. Of course, beyond our nation’s favorite holiday and weeknights sipping fresh suds, guests can refuel or kick back and enjoy the views at any Stein Collection dining entity to sample fresh, new summer menus all season long.
$72 for adults, $25 for children (5-12). Call (435) 645-6455 to make a reservation.

Forum Fest at Canyons Village

Forum Fest 2023 kicks off at Canyons Village with a headliner concert in the amphitheater followed by four days of live music, great food and drinks, kids and family activities, public art displays, and more. Drone shows, all-day music, and two nights of fireworks are the highlights of this event.

June 30 – July 4

Balloon Fest

July 4th Salt Lake City

Top pilots from around the nation come to compete in this unique event. Watch as balloon pilots participate in competitive games in the air! Arrive at 6:00 am. Walk around the 25 giant balloons as they inflate. Watch them take off into the sky. No cost.

July 1st, 3rd, and 4th, 6 AM-8 AM, Fox Field 1100 N Freedom Blvd Provo, Utah

4th of July Celebration at The Gateway

INAUGURAL RED, WHITE & BLUE FESTIVAL IN HEBER VALLEY, UTAH

July 4, 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Serving up one of the only local celebrations on the 4th, The Gateway invites the community to celebrate its independence on The Plaza. Classic American fare will be available from favorite Gateway bars and restaurants as well as served at the event. Two stages will be set up for live entertainment. Live music and DJs will appear on The Plaza Stage while Karaoke will be available on the South stage. Join the fun with yard games, face painting, photo ops, and contests throughout the day on the main stage. The evening will culminate with fireworks at 10:00 p.m.

The first annual Red, White & Blue Festival will take place in Heber Valley, Utah, on Tuesday, July 4th, 2023. The festivities kick off at 6:00 am with soaring hot air balloons over the valley. The full day of fun includes scenic morning races, patriotic walk, games, food trucks, live music and entertainment, art exhibits, local market, train rides, and so much more. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at 10:00 pm.

July 4th Schedule of Events

Heber City, Utah, June 21, 2023

An Old-Fashioned Celebration at This Is The Place

Explore a Pioneer Village, pan for gold, ride trains and ponies. Learn about Utah’s mining history, see a blacksmith, a tinsmith, a “spinster,” and much more. Have some great grub at the Huntsman Hotel, soft serve ice cream, Brigham’s Donuts, and candy at the old-fashioned ZCMI Mercantile. Visit the Irrigation Station Splash Pad, and take a Horseback Tail Ride. Also, don’t miss the best little Gift Shop West of the Mississippi!

July 4th – 10 am-5 pm, This Is The Place Heritage Park

Independence Day Celebration at Thanksgiving Point

All are welcome at our Independence Day Celebration: July 4th at Electric Park in Lehi, starting at 4 p.m.Admission is free—bring a blanket and enjoy the fireworks, food vendors, and outdoor fun! Gates, concessions, and vendors at Electric Park will open at 4 pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy an evening outdoors with food and fun.*Personal fireworks and/or personal grills are not allowed at Electric Park.

July 4th – 4 pm-10 pmThanksgiving Point’s Electric Park

Salt Lake City Drone Show

Salt Lake City will be hosting drone shows this summer on Saturday, July 1st at Jordan Park & on Monday, July 24th at Liberty Park. Each show will begin at 10:00 PM and last 10-15 minutes. Best seats in the house at Jordan Park will be in the main field area. Best seats in the house for Liberty Park will be in on top of the hill near the pond on the southeast side of the park or in the main east event area. This event is open and friendly to all ages and admission is FREE! Outside food and drink (non-alcoholic) is permitted.

July 1 – 8 pm-10 pm  Jordan Park

Salt Lake Bees Baseball and Fireworks

Spend Independence Day the classic American way and watch the SLC Bees take on the Sacramento River Cats. Afterwards, enjoy a fabulous fireworks show! Get your tickets here.

July 4 – 6:35 pm Smith’s Ballpark – 77 West 1300 South, Salt Lake

July 4th Salt Lake City

Freedom Days

Freedom Days is a 2-day event that is sure to thrill the whole family. There will be live entertainment, a carnival, art exhibits, handcrafted jewelry, food trucks, vendors, and more. Free entrance, attractions’ and vendors’ costs vary

July 3rd, 10am-11pm & July 4th, 11am-7pm, Provo Center Street (Downtown Provo)

Freedom Run

Whether you are an avid runner or a beginner, you can take part in the Freedom Run! There is a 10k, 5k, or the mayor’s one-mile Fun Run. Participants are encouraged to come decked out in patriotic garb for the run – red, white, and blue; Uncle Sam costume; etc.!  $12-$45 depending on the event; free for spectators. Participants register here. 

July 4th, 7 AM, Kiwanis Park in Provo

Jun 12
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A Hotel Lobby You Can Skate In? Evo Hotel

By Community

In the heart of Salt Lake’s ever-growing Granary District, Evo Hotel contains a skatepark. Yes, a skatepark. (Oh also, a climbing gym, hotel, cafe, retail store, bar and rooftop deck.) Evo is eclectic and that’s the point says manager Garret Clements, “Evo is a chaotic, high-energy place, and we want it that way.” 

‘All Together’ Skatepark 

hotel skatepark
Photo Courtesy of the Evo Hotel

Utah’s skating community is riding the revival of the sport into the future. After its debut in the 2020 Olympics, the number of people who got into skateboarding rose from 6.4 million to 8.8 million and are trading make-shift backyard half pipes for professional parks. Enter Evo, a non-traditional space that embraces the new skate scene with its 5,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor skatepark.

As you enter Evo, you are greeted by ramps and rails and usually you’ll see some skaters on them. SJ Johnson, head of the All Together skatepark, says all are welcome. “Unlike a regular hotel, we want to be non-traditional and show that everyone is welcomed to do whatever they want,” they say. “It’s such a tight-knit community that it feels more at home than any other regular skatepark would.” 

All Together skatepark hosts events, fundraisers and runs drop boxes for Coconut Hut, Utah Pride Center and the homeless shelters. The park offers camps for youth and adults every week in the summer, and seasonal parties and rollerblading nights during the winter. There’s also a weekly after-hours gathering for members of the LGBTQ+ community. The skate scene + hotel has attracted skating legends like Amelia Bordka and Tony Hawk, who have both stayed (and skated there). On sunny days, All Together opens its garage doors to offer skaters a chance to shred some natural terrain. With a tight-knit group of skaters of all ages and skill levels, and a commitment to giving back to marginalized communities, the All Together skatepark offers more than just a place to skate. 

Photo Courtesy of the Evo Hotel

Evohotel.com, @evohotelsaltlake, 660 S. 300 West, SLC

May 30
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Fans Speculate About Hive Music Festival Cancellation

By Music

Less than three weeks before its scheduled start date, the music festival the Hive, which has been a prominent event in Salt Lake for the past three years, announced the cancellation of its highly anticipated 2023 show. 

Usually, when a festival gets called off, there’s a reason behind it, especially if it happens less than three weeks before it was supposed to start. However, the Hive’s organizers have left us in the dark, with their only statement so far being: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, Hive Music Festival will no longer take place this year.” As a result, folks have been left to speculate on their own, leading to some pretty spot on conspiracy theories. 

Potential Reasons For Cancellation, as Told By Disgruntled TicketHolders

One of the major theories circulating is the “low ticket sales” theory, which is relatively mild compared to the others, but still very plausible. The previous festival stirred up quite the controversy and left attendees disappointed with numerous cancellations. After all, who would want to attend a festival where more than half of the performers back out?

Another theory, and personally, the one I find most believable, suggests that one of the festival’s main headlines backed out. This could either be Post Malone, Kid Kudi, or even both. Having one out of the two biggest artists cancel their appearances would undoubtedly have a severe impact on the festival. However my bet is on Post Malone and let me tell you why in the next theory.

There’s a widespread belief that there may have been something shady behind the scenes between Post Malone and the organizers of the Hive, as well as Salt Lake. Post Malone has shown a deep connection to Salt Lake, sticking up residency and  even going as far as renovating a Canes restaurant in Murray. However, when he recently unveiled the tour dates for his new album, surprisingly, Salt Lake wasn’t on it. The sudden cancellation of the Hive, combined with Post Malone excluding Salt Lake from his tour, seems too suspicious to be mere coincidence.

In the end, the true cause behind the festival’s cancellation may forever remain a mystery. The organizers have left us with no other option but to indulge in wild speculation. As the time passes, it’s likely that the theories surrounding the Hive will spiral out of control. One thing is certain though: if the festival manages to survive such a scandal and continues next year, I will certainly not be purchasing a ticket. 

Other Events in Salt Lake

Despite the cancellation of the Hive and Kilby’s departure, there are still multiple events going on this summer in Salt Lake. Pride is coming up on June 1-4, as well as other festivals including, Utah Blues Festival, SLC Busker Fest, Brewstillery and the Utah Arts Festival. Read more about these events as well as others here!

Read more of our music coverage and get the latest on the arts and culture scene in and around Utah. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

May 23
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Step Inside New Urban Social Club Edison House

By Community

Edison House, a new urban social club, adds vibrance to the energized social scene in downtown Salt Lake west of State Street.

Salt Lake City is going through some big changes, and one of the noticeable shifts is west of State Street. Even mid-week, the sidewalks are bustling and clubs and restaurants have customers lined up. It’s no longer the Salt Lake of a few short years ago.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

With a subtle presence on Second West, the Edison House offers a friendly destination with plenty of options for enjoying oneself. Above, the large E on the metal panel is the only cue to its identity. The door opens to a host vestibule for checking in and verifying club membership.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

To the left of the vestibule, a grand space opens with a variety of seating and meeting spaces and a full bar and a spacious restaurant. The Edison House is a new building specifically designed for its variety of social spaces built by Okland Construction, designed by HKS Architects, and with interiors by Avenue Interior Design. 

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

A canopy calls out the central bar’s presence in the open plan.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

The large space is marked by several more private nooks; one is this private dining room.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

If you take the right-hand door off the host vestibule, it’s a healthy turn because it opens to the fitness center and lockers.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

Central to the second floor is a casual bar for meeting, mingling, and watching games. 

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

Down the hall to the north is the Speakeasy with a stage for performances and its own bar.

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

Adjacent to the Speakeasy is a retro piano bar with soft velvet furnishings and wall coverings. 

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

Staying on the second level and moving south of the central bar is a spacious pool room with music memorabilia. Adjacent is an aerobic fitness room. 

Photo by Scot Zimmerman

A rooftop bar, pool, sky lounge, and banquet/ballroom occupy the top level. Glass doors fold back to unite the space. It a wonderful place to watch the sun set over Great Salt Lake, and with the open views to the sky, you can appreciate the changing colors of the clouds.  

Putting myself in the place of someone possibly new to Salt Lake or maybe newly a resident of downtown, it seems like an easy place to make new friends and spend some delightful evenings. 

Read more stories like this and all of our Community coverage. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

May 09
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Hogle Zoo Says Goodbye to Elephants Christie and Zuri

By City Watch

Utah’s Hogle Zoo announced a groundbreaking decision earlier this week to pause its historic 100-year care of elephants. Current residents of the zoo, mom Christie (36) and daughter Zuri (13) will be transferred to another Association of Zoos and Aquariums(AZA) accredited facility. An official date for the transfer is yet to be released but officials anticipate they will be relocated by the fall. While zookeepers and zoo goers alike are heartbroken to say goodbye to Christie and Zuri, the move is ultimately best for the pair’s quality of life.  

Utah’s love affair with elephants began 1916 when Salt Lake school children decided to do a fundraiser in order to purchase one from a traveling circus for the local zoo. Her name was Princess Alice. 

Princess Alice and Prince Utah at Utah’s Hogle Zoo

Princess Alice was a favorite, drawing visitors from around the region. But Alice didn’t take well to captivity. She became known for her daring escapes, rampaging around the surrounding Liberty Wells neighborhood, knocking down fences, and hiding from searchers for hours. The repeated escapes, although charming, alarmed neighbors and prompted the zoo to relocate to its current location at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in 1931.

Princess Alice remains memorialized in a statue of her visage that is hung in the elephant enclosure at the Hogle Zoo. 

“Much has changed since 1916 when Princess Alice became the first elephant to live in Utah….Zoos’ focus on species care and conservation is more important than ever. The world’s African elephant population declined from 1.1 million in the 1970s to approximately 450,000 today, with an estimated 100 elephants killed every day. Utah’s Hogle Zoo, with the support of the community, has funded worldwide conservation projects to secure important habitats, build ranger stations in East Africa, and form anti-poaching scouting teams.” Utah Hogle Zoo

African Elephant Zuri at UHZ. Photo courtesy of Hogle Zoo

Despite being one of the few AZA accredited zoos in the United States, there are some necessities that the Hogle zoo has been unable to provide for Christie and Zuri. Elephants benefit greatly from the social dynamic of multigenerational herds which is not possible at the Hogle Zoo’s current facility. Despite expert staff and revolutionary training, attempts at artificially inseminating Zuri have failed due to poor samples. Transferring another bull to the facility would require significant restructuring which would take a minimum of five years to complete. By this time Zuri could age out of her prime reproductive window. 

Utah also isn’t a conducive environment for Christie and Zuri. African elephants naturally inhabit tropical forests, grasslands, and savannahs. They are not built for Utah’s cold snowy winters. In fact The Journal of African Elephants listed the Hogle Zoo as the 10th worst zoo for African elephants in North America. 

In regards to what species the Hogle Zoo will have in the future, CEO and President of the zoo Doug Lund had this to say, “The process is guided by what is best for animal wellbeing, guest impact, and the most effective way to contribute to saving wildlife.” 

For updates on Christie and Zuri the public should folllow hoglezoo.org and @hoglezoo.

May 09
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How Do You Climb Kilimanjaro?

By Adventures, Travel

One step at a time (and lots of training)

Last December, I climbed Kilimanjaro. Most of it anyway. My story of (almost) climbing the tallest mountain on the African Continent starts with my father who left us too soon. He was 58 years old when he died of a heart attack. He was in top shape, and losing him so early cast a shadow over my view of fitness and health, sometimes asking “what does it matter?” But my dad would remind me that being in good health is essential for experiencing the world with whatever time I have. When I was invited to climb Kilimanjaro it was daunting but something I knew my dad would want for me. 

Getting Ready  

Climb Kilimanjaro
Photo courtesy of Mary Ruth Harris

I contacted nutritionist and trainer Jeff Sproul of PureFitness and Nutrition. When I said the word “Kilimanjaro” he responded with a prescription for weekly sessions of strength training and nutrition check-ins that kept me accountable and on track. Sproul offers a low-key, non-judgemental approach to fitness. And I’m proof he can work with anyone—a middle-aged mom (like me) or youngsters who want to run Spartan races. 

I also fell back on my yoga practice. Core Power Yoga has some of the best yoga instructors and attending those classes provided a lot of necessary perspectives, flexibility and meditation material that would be invaluable on the most difficult portions of the climb. 

I had been paired with World Wide Trekking by a colleague, who had trekked with the outfit before. Traveling with a local guide, Dean Canidale (WWT’s lead guide and founder), and my local friends made it feel safe to go. So off I went, carrying a worn photo of my father and I standing on top of a peak in the Wind Rivers, smiling and wearing unintentionally matching flannel and khakis. That image kept me going.

On Kilimanjaro

There are five different ecological zones to pass before reaching what is affectionately called “the roof of Africa,” Kilimanjaro. Over the next few days, it was misty. The clouds seemed to rise straight from the ground, swirling above us, behind us and around us. I couldn’t see ahead. I couldn’t see below. I asked our guide, Dean, to move the clouds so we could see the landmark Kilimanjaro Lava Tower. Magically, he waved his hands and they did! (But Dean also started the Human Outreach Project, a non-profit that gives back to locals in the communities he visits around the world. He specializes in miracles.)

Generally, I have a hard time asking for help. When we scaled the Breakfast Wall (the most technical part of the trek), I was struggling but still stubbornly resisted. At one point, I couldn’t see above me and felt panic rising. At that moment our guide Happiness (yes, that was her name) said, “Mary, take the hand of Happiness.” I took her hand. Her hand was strong, warm and soft. We smiled and my fear retreated. I climbed up. 

Climb Kilimanjaro
Photo courtesy of World Wide Trekking

Comes the Wind

The wind was trying to tell me something. It was trying to say something so much so that it rolled over my tent one night. It kept on howling and beating dirt and grime into my clothing, eyes, ears and nostrils. It made it hard to communicate, walk or breathe. It brought frustration. On the highest camp in the middle of the night, the wind made machinery-like metal noises as it hit the tents and shook them violently for hours. 

I remembered a Core Power Yoga class in the night while the tents shook. The class put me into a position called warrior three where the body is stretched out long horizontally, and one leg is standing firm vertically. As we held the pose and sweat dripped from my body, the instructor said “Mary! You’re making the T like tenacity, do you have tenacity? Do you know what it means?” Gasping, I said, “I don’t know?” She walked by and continued class. Those nights on the mountain, in the wind, I truly learned what it meant. And wind, it turns out, has greater tenacity than us mere humans. After several days, Dean made the hard call to abandon our summit attempt. We slumped back down never setting foot on the top of Africa’s roof. 

Once home, it was hard to explain what it was like. I had a lot to recover from and reflect upon. I called Christine Stockham, LMT, NBT-HWC, the founder of Harmonic Alignments, LLC. Not just a masseuse, she is an integrative bodyworker. I scheduled a 2-hour customized treatment session. She has many techniques, and she is magical. The massage, aromatherapy, and more, let the air out and helped me start understanding the experience.

I still don’t know what the wind was trying to tell me. I’ll wonder for years to come. I’ll consider the vision, purpose, trust and direction I learned from my father and how it helped me find the tenacity to turn away from something I wanted so much.  

May 08
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Kilby Block Party 2023: Know Before You Go

By Kilby Block Party, Music

As the temperatures start to rise and the days grow longer, we know that summer is just around the corner. And for many of us, that can only mean one thing—festival season! The much-anticipated Kilby Block Party is back, bringing with it a fresh lineup of the best indie bands that Salt Lake has to offer. To help you make the most of your time at the festival, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

What To Expect

There are a few things to keep in mind when attending the Kilby Block Party. Firstly, if you’ve attended the festival before, you can expect it to be much larger this year as it is being held at the Utah State Fair Park, the biggest venue the festival has ever used. This means larger crowds and longer lines.

Secondly, it’s important to bring water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day. I recommend bringing a Camelbak. Remember to empty your water bottle before arriving, as there will be refill stations available at the festival. Also, keep in mind that there will be limited shade, so make sure to bring sunscreen!

Thirdly, use Uber! There will be limited parking and driving may lead to unwanted headaches. However, if you do choose to drive, keep in mind that there will be no re-entry once you leave the festival grounds, except for 3-day GA, VIP, and SUPER VIP ticket holders. Lastly, expect plenty of food trucks, booze and a whole lot of fun!

Festival Logistics

When and Where– The Festival’s gates open at 12pm and run till 10 pm each day. It’s located at the Utah State Fair Park, where there will be limited parking. You can purchase a ticket for the premium lot here, if not, the secondary lot is paid on-site and is first come first serve. 

Wristbands– There will be two options to exchange your tickets for wristbands. If you want to skip the line you can receive your wristband on May 11th, from 5 pm to 9 pm at the following locations:

  • Kilby Court: 741 Kilby Court, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

  • Blue Gene’s: 239 S. 500 E., Salt Lake City, UT 84102

  • The Depot: 13 N. 400 W., Salt Lake City, UT 84101

If these times and locations don’t work for you, you can always exchange your ticket for a wristband when you arrive at the festival. 

  • North Entrance: 300 N. 1050 W.

  • East Entrance: 200 N. 1080 W.

Please do not lose your wristband! There are no exchanges and if you lose it and you will have to purchase another ticket.

Allowed Items– Like most festivals, there is a list of items that are permitted and prohibited for attendees to bring. To help you prepare, here are some of the items that you are allowed to bring with you: 

  • Bags: The Kilby Block Party has specific guidelines regarding bags. Clear bags are permitted but must not exceed 12” x 12” x 6” in size. Alternatively, small bags that are not clear are also allowed but can only have one pocket and must not exceed 4.5” x 5.5” in size. 

  • Water: Reusable water bottles and hydration packs are permitted but they must be empty when you arrive at the gates. However, there will be multiple areas at the venue where free water refills will be available

  • Other items permitted: Polaroid and Film cameras, e-cigs, strollers, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, earplugs and portable chargers.

The Lineup

Friday– Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Dominic Fike, Japanese Breakfast, Cuco, Remi Wolf, Lucius, Ritt Momney, Frankie Cosmos, Jean Dawson, Alice Phoebe Lou, Deerhoof, Westerman, Julie, Momma, NoSo, Miya Folick, The Plastic Cherries, Homephone and Sunhills.

Saturday– The Strokes, Run The Jewels, Hippo Campus, Caroline Polacheck, Goth Babe, Alex G, Osees, Weyes Blood, Gus Dapperton, Indigo De Souza, Dreamer Isioma, The Moss, Wallice, Tamino, Grave Ives, Tanukichan, Sunsleeper, Kipper Snack, Hi Again, Anais Chantal and Josh Doss & The Cancers.

Sunday– Pavement, Pixies, The Backseat Lovers, The Walkmen, Surf Curse, Duster, Faye Webster, Crumb, Ethel Cain, Wednesday, Kate Bollinger, Spill Tab, Mannequin Pussy, Deeper, Tolchok Trio, Worlds Worst, Fonteyn, Backhand and Musor.

Acts I’m Looking Forward To

I’m looking forward to Hippo Campus the most, performing Saturday from 6:25 to 7:25. If I were you, I’d go see them. I’m also looking forward to The Strokes (Saturday, 8:45-10:00) and the Pixies (Sunday, 7:45-8:45). Lastly, for all you Euphoria fans go see Elliot, better known as Dominic Fike, perform on Friday at 7:20 to 8:20. Happy festival-ing!

Take a Look at Last Year’s Kilby Block Party

Photography by Natalie Simpson, Beehive Photography


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We’ll be posting daily recaps of the festival on our site and socials. Check back for all our thoughts throughout the weekend!

Read more of our music coverage and get the latest on the arts and culture scene in and around Utah. And while you’re here, subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine, your curated guide to the best of life in Utah.

Apr 28
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Burpee-cucumber

Cucumber Season is Here: Recipes and Garden Tips

By Eat & Drink

Cucumbers are a staple for warm-weather party trays, easy-to-make appetizers and simple snacks. With this in mind, Burpee’s crop of new introductions includes a 4-inch, thin-skinned “Party Time” cucumber, perfect for small gardens and mini-cuke dipping.

Cucumbers 101

  • Select cucumbers with uniformly deep green skin and no soft spots

  • Store cucumbers in a refrigerator crisper for up to a week. They will wilt when keep at room temperature. Unwaxed cucumbers should be wrapped tightly in plastic to retain their moisture.

  • Serve unwaxed cucumbers peeled or unpeeled. Waxed cucumbers are best peeled before they are eaten.

Cucumber recipes

Grow

Cucumbers are easy to grow but require good soil, lots of sun and consistent watering. According to the garden pros at USU, cucumbers can be grown from seed or transplants. (Allow 4-6 weeks to grow transplants.) Plant seeds when soil temperature is 65°F or after all frost danger has passed. In rows 4 feet apart, plant four to six seeds into 1-inch-deep holes, with 12-18 inches between each planting. After they have two leaves, thin to two plants per location. Transplants should also be planted in rows 4 feet apart, with 2 feet of distance between each planting. Water deeply and infrequently, applying 1-2 inches per week depending on plant size. After the vines develop runners and before the plants begin to flower, side dress each plant with 3-4 tablespoons of a nitrogen fertilizer (21-0-0), sprinkled around the plant, then water in the fertilizer. For more, visit extension.usu.edu

Cucumber Recipe Ideas Perfect for Spring

As a Garnish

Cucumbers deliver a uniquely fresh flavor to all types of warm-weather drinks, ranging from vodka martinis and gin-and-tonics to sparkling sodas and iced waters. They also make a cool garnish. Our favorite is the easy-to-make cucumber ribbon. Simply cut the end off a washed cucumber and then use a peeler to peel down the length of the cuke, set the ribbon aside and repeat. You can also use a mandolin to prepare these slices. Place one to three ribbons in your prepared drink and serve.

As a Snack

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Canape

1 unwaxed, organic cucumber

5 ounces chevre (creamy goat cheese)

6 ounces sliced smoked salmon

16 sprigs fresh dill (for garnish)

Score the cucumber’s skin lengthwise with a fork. Slice the decoratively scored cucumber into sixteen quarter-inch rounds. Spread a thin layer of chevre on each round. Top with salmon and dill. Serve on a chilled platte

Cucumber recipes

As a Dip

Creamy Ranch dressing makes a perfect dip for fresh, crisp cucumbers. Homemade or store bought, this classic also provides a wonderful base for adding your own flavorful twist.

• Stir in a favorite condiment, from simple mustard or barbecue sauce to diced pickles or even pesto.

• Turn up the heat with Sriracha, diced green chiles, Worcestershire, chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, salsa, Mexican hot sauce or Moroccan harissa paste.

• Brighten it with lemon zest and a squeeze of juice.

• Add more herbs including dill, chives, parsley, oregano or basil.

• Mix in your favorite flavor-packed cheese: think bleu, feta, Parmesan or sharp cheddar.

• Kick it up with lime juice, cilantro and diced avocado.

• Go for broke with roasted Poblano chiles, sauteed onions, crumbled bacon or roasted garlic.