Community

Looking for a way to liven up your week ahead? Luckily, Utah has no shortage of exciting events to fill out your calendar. To help you make a selection, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite happenings around-town, from makers markets to beer festivals and live music. For even more events happening in Salt Lake City this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar! 

Monday 8/12

What: Summer Jam Concert Series Samba Fogo
Where: Canyon Rim Park, Millcreek
When: 08/12 at 7 p.m. 
Pack up a picnic and load the whole family into the car to enjoy a free evening of live Samba in the Canyon Rim Park. This is the last event of the season, so get ready to send off the summer series in style! 

What: Smash & Cash Mondays 
Where: Scion Cider
When: 08/12 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Get ready to win big at Scion’s weekly Bingo event. Grab a smashburger from C9 next door, or enjoy Scion’s selection of charcuterie, conservas and bar snacks. The night starts off with am hour of Rock n’ Bingo, followed by a cash jackpot round. Each game is free to play and offers prizes for winners. 

Tuesday 8/13

What: Trivia with Game Night Live
Where: Hopkins Brewing
When: 08/13 at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Game Night Live brings their traveling bar trivia series to Hopkins Brewing every tuesday. Grab one of their in-house brews and your best know-it-all pals for a chance at trivia glory. 

What: Draper City Farmers Market
Where: Smiths Fields Park
When: 08/13 at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
Held every Tuesday through October, the Draper City Farmer’s Market connects 80 incredible food vendors to food-conscious shoppers. Shop local produce, flowers, baked goods, eggs, honey and more at this weekly market. Attendees can also peersue a wide selection of handmade goods, craft-booths and on-site food options. 

What: Art for the Recovery Community 6th Annual Festival
Where: Spy Hop Rooftop Bar 
When: 08/13 at 6 p.m. 
Join ARC the Spy Hop Rooftop for an artful evening celebrating and showcasing artists in recovery.The ARC festival opens at 6pm with a gallery exhibit featuring work by visual artists, painters, photographers, and more. An evening concert, starting at 7:30pm, will host a lineup of talented local performing artists. This event is free and open to the public. 

Wednesday 8/14

What: Nature Speaker Series: Making Friends with Utah Pollinators
Where: Tracey Aviary 
When: 08/14 at 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. 
Part of their monthly speaker series, Tracey Aviary welcomes horticulturaist Parker Lloyd to lead an informative conversation about pollinators. Learn how to attract native pollinators to your urban garden, support interconnected habitat corridors and take part in monitoring Utah’s native pollinators. 

What: Pups & Poses: Puppy Yoga Festival
Where: Trolley Square 
When: 08/14 at 7 p.m. 
The Arctic Rescue has partnered with CorePower Yoga to offer a fun night of live music, drinks from Moab Brewery and yoga. Arrive at 7 to check in, yoga starts promptly at 7:30. Find tickets here. 

Thursday 8/15

What: Park City Song Summit
Where: Canyons Ampitheatre, The Pendry, and other venues in Park City 
When: 08/15-08/17
The third annual music festival focusing on health and wellness returns to Park City with an exciting lineup of performances, activations and wellness activities. Musical highlights include My Morning Jacket, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Larkin Poe and more. 

What: Music and Mocktails
Where: Salt Lake City Public Library, Marmalade Branch
When: 08/15 at 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m .
A family-friendly night of musical bingo, trivia and other games. Each musical genre is paired with a tasty mocktail that attendees will learn to make themselves. 

What: Free Feline Fix Clinic
Where: Salt Lake County Animal Services, 511 W. 3900 South
When: select appointment slots on 08/15
Offered on the first and third thursday of each month, the free feline fix clinic include spay/neuter services, rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine and a microchip. Must book an appointment, slots fill quickly. Schedule yours here. 

Friday 8/16

What: Pop-Up Zine Fest
Where: Urban Arts Gallery
When: 08/16 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Grid Zine Fest and Urban Arts Gallery present a free events featuring 30 talenting artists showcasing and selling their unique creations. 

What: Brat Rave—A Night Dedicated to Charli and Other Party Girl Anthems 
Where: The Depot
When: 08/17 at 9 p.m. 
Brat summer is just getting started. Bring all your 18+ besties to The Depot decked out in your best lime green attire. Tickets available here. 

What: Always Queer Makers Market
Where: Under the Umbrella Bookstore
When: 08/17 at 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 
Shop unique handmade goods from queer artists at Under the Umbrella’s monthly makers market. Mask required. 

Saturday 8/17

What: Utah Beer Festival
Where: The Gateway
Where: 08/17-08/18
The largest beer event in Utah returns to The Gateway with over 200 beers and ciders to sample. Sip local craft and national brews and enjoy a plethora of performances at the main stage. Single day and weekend passes available. 

What: 11th Annual Utah Dance Film Festival
Where: Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center
When: 08/17-08/18
The annual dance film festival features 33 films from 15 counties across four screenings. Guests can also attend a free filmmaking workshop, award showcase and Q&A sessions. 

What: High West Whiskey Party
Where: The Westerner
When: 08/17 
Get your wild west on at The Westerner with themed cocktails from High West, live music, bull riding, giveaways and more. $10 cover, 21+ over. 

Sunday 8/18

What: Sip and Slay Drag Brunch
Where: HK Brewing
When: 08/18 at 12 p.m. 
Recently named the second best Drag Brunch in our 2024 Best of the Beehive issue, HK Brewing is hosting another sunday funday of delicious cocktails and performances by local queens.

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More than two dozen athletes with Utah ties are competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics—for both Team USA and other nations. Thus far, a few of them will be coming home with medals.

Park City resident and Mountain Biker Haley Batten took home the silver medal for Team USA in the Women’s Cross-country event. Salt Lake magazine interviewed Batten last summer about her Olympic hopes and recent challenges. 

Team USA Women’s Rugby Team beat Australia for the bronze medal in the Paris Olympics. Two members of the team have some Utah connection: Steph Rovetti attended BYU, where she competed in basketball, and Alex “Spiff” Sedrick is from Salt Lake City and played for the Utah Vipers rugby team.

Track and Field athlete and Salt Lake City resident Grant Fisher nabbed the bronze medal in the Men’s 10,000 meter event. 

BYU student Kenneth Rooks won a silver medal in the Men’s 3,000-meter Steeplechase—an intense race where runners must overcome obstacles like hurdles and pools of water. 

Many more Paris Olympic athletes with Utah connections are still competing, with a chance to bring home a medal, in upcoming events: 

Women’s Bouldering and Lead Semifinal on Thursday, August 8 at 2:00 a.m.
Women’s Track and Field Heptathlon First Heat on Thursday, August 8 at 2:05 a.m.
Men’s Speed Climbing Quarterfinal on Thursday, August 8 at 4:35 a.m.
Women’s Track and Field 4×400 Meter Relay on Friday, August 9 at 2:40 a.m.
Men’s Bouldering and Lead Final on Friday, August 9 at 2:15 and 4:35 a.m.
Women’s Bouldering and Lead Final on Saturday August 10 at 2:15 and 4:35 a.m.
Men’s Track and Field 5,000 Meter Final on Saturday August 10 at 11:50 a.m.
Men’s Marathon on Saturday, August 10 at 12 a.m.

The 2024 Paralympics will air August 28–September 8. 

It is worth noting, the USA Track and Field and USA Sport Climbing both have headquarters in Salt Lake City, which is why many of the Paris Olympic athletes on those teams have Utah ties—either living or training in Utah.

Athletes with a connection to Utah competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics:

Basketball 3×3

Team USA
Jimmer Fredette (BYU)

Canada
Paige Crozon (University of Utah)
Michelle Plouffe (University of Utah)

Cycling Mountain Bike

Team USA
Haley Batten (Park City, Utah; Park City High School)—Silver Medal, Women’s Cross-country

Diving 

Sweden
Emilia Nilsson Garip (3m; University of Utah)

Rugby

Team USA
Steph Rovetti (BYU)—Bronze Medal, Women’s Rugby Sevens
Alex “Spiff” Sedrick (Salt Lake City, Utah; Utah Vipers, Utah Lions Rugby Club)—Bronze Medal, Women’s Rugby Sevens
Maka Unufe (Provo, Utah; Provo High School)

Shooting 

Team USA
Alexis Lagan (University of Utah)

Soccer

Team USA
Taylor Booth (Eden, Utah; Real Salt Lake Academy)

France
Amandine Henry (Utah Royals)

Japan
Mina Tanaka (Utah Royals)

New Zealand
Macey Fraser (Utah Royals)

Nigeria
Ifeoma Onumonu (Utah Royals)

Sports Climbing

Team USA
Colin Duffy (Bouldering and Lead Combined; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Natalia Grossman (Bouldering and Lead Combined; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Jesse Grupper (Bouldering and Lead Combined; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Brooke Raboutou (Bouldering and Lead Combined; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Zach Hammer (Speed; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Emma Hunt (Speed; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Piper Kelly (Speed; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)
Sam Watson (Speed; USA Climbing; Salt Lake City, Utah)

Track and Field

Team USA 
Grant Fisher (5000m and 10,000m, Run Elite Program)—Bronze Medal, Men’s 10,000 Meter
Whittni Morgan (5000m; Panguitch, Utah; Panguitch HS; BYU; Run Elite Program; Taylor Made Elite)
Chari Hawkins (Heptathlon; Utah State University)
Conner Mantz (Marathon; Logan, Utah; Sky View High School; BYU; Run Elite Program)
Clayton Young (Marathon; American Fork High School; BYU; Run Elite Program)
James Corrigan (Steeplechase; BYU; Run Elite Program)
Kenneth Rooks (Steeplechase; BYU; Run Elite Program)—Silver Medal, Men’s 3,000-meter Steeplechase
Courtney Wayment (Steeplechase; Layton, Utah; Davis High School; BYU; Taylor Made Elite)

Canada
Simone Plourde (1500m; BYU; University of Utah)
Rory Linkletter (Marathon; Herriman High School; BYU)

Norway
Josefine Eriksen (4x400m relay; University of Utah)

Paralympics

David Blair (Para-Track and Field; Eagle Mountain, Utah) 
Dennis Connors (Para-cycling; University of Utah)
Ali Ibanez (Wheelchair Basketball; Murray, Utah)
Garrett Schoonover (Wheelchair Fencing; Sandy, Utah)
Hunter Woodhall (Para-Track and Field; Syracuse, Utah)

Woodhall is married to Team USA Track and Field athlete Tara Davis-Woodhall, ranked first in the world for long jump, who competes in the Women’s Long Jump Final on Thursday, August 8 at noon in Paris.

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Summer is in full swing and we have compiled a list of local events happening this week for you to enjoy. From free outdoor concerts to arts festivals and pop-up markets, the city is as lively as ever. For even more events this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar! 

Monday 08/05

What: Mondays at the Park Free Concert Series 
Where: Chase Home Museum in Liberty Park 
When: 08/05 from 7 p.m to 9 p.m. 
The Salt Lake City Arts Council has put together a series of free concerts featuring traditional folk music and cultural dances on select Monday evenings. Come with lawn chairs, blankets, picnics and friends and family of all ages to enjoy two acts throughout the evening: Sinchi Allpa  & Somos Bolivia, and Venezuela Cantando. 

What: Paranormal Cirque
Where: 1055 W. North Temple, SLC
When: Select showtimes on 8/05
An adults-only show featuring illusionists, mysterious creatures, acrobats and more in an eccentric fusion of circus, theatre and cabaret. In true circus fashion, the Paranormal Cirque embraces the darker, creepier side of showbiz. Guests 17 and under are required a parent guardian, no one under 13 is permitted. Purchase tickets here. 

Tuesday 08/06

What: Big Band Dance Nights
Where: The Gallivan Center
When: 08/06 at 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
A free concert at The Gallivan Center’s outdoor amphitheater. Timpanogos Big Band will be performing on August 6th, led by globe-trotting woodwind player Ray Smith. 

What: Pop-Up Food Market 
Where: Utah State Fairpark
When: 08/06 at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
The International Market presents a pop-up food market with Majestic Meats, Rocky Mountain Honey, Utah State Fairpark Produce, Deliciously Flakes and Aguas Frescas/bread. 

Wednesday 08/07

What: Zoo Brew Safari Soul Train 
Where: Hogle Zoo
When: 08/07 at 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 
This month’s Zoo Brew is a 70s-themed extravaganza with local brews, bites and unique wildlife activities. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best throwback attire! 

Thursday 8/08

What: Yappy Hour
Where: Pioneer Park
When: 08/08 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Bring your four-legged bestie along for an evening of socializing, live music, vendor booths and plenty of treats. The event is free to attend and open to all ages, outside food and drinks are prohibited. 

Friday 08/09

What: Craft Lake City DIY Fest 
Where: Utah State Fairpark
When: 08/09-08/11
Utah’s largest local-centered art festival returns to the Fairpark for its 16th year. Slated to be the biggest yet, the DIY fest showcases 500 local artist booths, vintage vendors, performers and more. 

What: Westside Culture Fest 
Where: Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center
When: 08/09-08/10
Celebrate the Westside community at a two-day block party with local craftspeople, food trucks, kids activities and 25+ live performances. The event is free to attend. 

What: Sandy Balloon Festival
Where: Various Venues in Sandy
When: 08/09-08/10 
Get up-close to hot air balloons on early Friday and Saturday mornings as you help pilots set up, and sign up for a chance at a free tethered ride 50-80 feet in the air. After the launch, enjoy food trucks, music, face painting and a drone show. 

Saturday 08/10

What: Macabre Art Festival
Where: Spoox Boutique
When: 08/10 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 
Celebrate all things Halloween early this year at a fun “summerween” art festival. Spoox Boutique is throwing its 11th Spooky Summer Festival with dozens of local artists, raffle drawings, and even trick-or-treating! 

What: Bugfest 
Where: The Natural History Museum
When: 08/10-08/11
Bug fans rejoice at NHMU’s BUGfest, a weekend packed full of collection showcases, live insect interactions, lectures and more. 

What: Oktoberfest Opening Day 
Where: Snowbird Resort
When: 08/10 at 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
Dust off your stein and head up Little Cottonwood for Snowbird’s first Oktoberfest day of the season! The annual festival includes a Biergarten, Bavarian food vendors, live music and more. New this year, the Brewer’s Dinner is held on select Fridays during the festival and offers attendees an elevated experience with beer pairings at The Summit. 

What: Back to School Market
Where: Publik Coffee Roasters
When: 08/10 at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
A free pop-up market with local, BIPOC and women-owned small businesses. Shop all your back-to-school needs while the kids enjoy face painting, crafts and more. 

Sunday 08/11

What: Urban Flea Market 
Where: The Gateway
When: 08/11 at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
Vintage lovers and thrift flippers will love the year-round Urban Flea Market. The yard-sale-esque event features a curated selection of vintage, antique and pre-loved items. During the summer, the market takes over a spot in The Gateway every second Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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“I will never play football again.” This thought raced through Barry Sims’ mind as he listened to the orthopedic surgeon discuss his injury. It was 1998, and the National Football League was scouting the college senior. During practice for the All-Star Hula Bowl game, Sims suffered what could be a career-ending knee injury.   

After undergoing surgery, Sims’ doctors referred him to a state-of-the-art training and rehabilitation program. Despite being listed as a long shot, he focused on recovery, hoping to return and get his shot in the NFL. 

If you are a football fan, you know that Sims did make it back onto the field. Week after week, he showed that he was ready for anything (or anyone) that came his way. In 1999, he was drafted into the NFL’s European league as an offensive tackle for the Scottish Claymores and then signed as a free agent by the Raiders. 

Sims spent the next nine years in the starting lineup for the then-Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas) and another three years for the San Francisco 49ers. Looking back, he says, “The rehab training program was the thing I needed to do to play football.” And afterward, “My 12-year NFL career was a true blessing.”

Sims can add to his blessings the continual support of his wife, Shae. The couple met in 1998 at a sports bar with an NFL game playing in the background. “I was a server at Iggy’s, a popular U of U hangout at the time,” Shae says. “Barry came in with his teammates to watch the game. We started flirting over the food menu, went on a date and have been inseparable ever since.” 

With a degree in exercise physiology, Shae supported Barry during his post-injury rehabilitation and his professional football career. Now she partners with him in his post-NFL life, teaming up to get involved with numerous philanthropies. These include the Special Olympics and Foster a Dream—an organization supporting foster care youth. 

With Sims’ backstory, it’s no surprise that they excel at work that helps those with physical challenges. “We like to instill the message that even if someone tells you that you can’t do something, don’t give up,” Barry says. “It’s all about overcoming adversity.” 

As first-hand witnesses to the effectiveness of science-based physical training, they wanted to be involved when they learned that the Athletic Republic—a private training facility to assist athletes of all ages to improve and excel—used the same program that aided Barry’s recovery. 

In 2021, they moved from San Francisco back to Park City and became the owners of the Athletic Republic in Pinebrook. 

Barry and Shae immediately started working with athletes of all ages and abilities to help them attain their goals. The training program places a strong emphasis on accident prevention and recovery time. 

“Severe injuries are occurring at very early ages,” says Barry, speaking from experience. “Competition has improved over the years and athletes are specializing in sports at younger and younger ages. Unfortunately, many youth athletes are going back and forth from practice to games. They are not giving themselves a chance to recover, rest and train outside of the sport. This increases their chances of major injury.” 

Encouraged by the successes achieved through the Athletic Republic regimen, in 2023, the Sims opened a second AR location in West Jordan. “We have just scratched the surface of what these two communities can gain through our education and training programs,” says Shae.

The Sims tend to gravitate toward “underdog stories” and recalled one in particular, “There was this little kid who wanted to play football,” Shae explains. “He had never played the sport before and his mom felt strongly that he needed to train and get physically ready before he tried it. He had such a good work ethic and a great attitude. He just excelled. After training with us, he tried out for a youth passing league and made the team. By the end of the season, he was awarded ‘most inspirational player’ and he has continued to excel!” 

The Sims feel fortunate to be able to support a program that helps make dreams come true. As Barry can personally attest, “I know the benefits of this type of training and how well it works because I was a recipient of it.” 

Shae adds, “And now we can assist those in small communities, like Park City and West Jordan, find their passion and help them be the pearls they can be.” 

Barry Sims’ NFL Career

• 1988-1992: Park City High School, Offensive Lineman
• 1994-1996: Dixie College, Offensive Lineman
• 1996-1998: University of Utah, Offensive Lineman
• 1998: Graduated from the University of Utah with a B.A. in Sociology 
• 1999: NFL Europe, Scottish Claymores, Offensive Lineman
• 1999-2007: Oakland Raiders, Offensive Lineman
• 2008-2010: San Francisco 49ers, Offensive Lineman
• Barry Sims Career Highlights:
• Appeared in 174 Games.
• Started in seven playoff games and played in Super Bowl XXXVII. 
• In 2004, became co-recipient of the 2004 Commitment to Excellence Award from
• the Oakland Raiders.

Summer is in full swing and we have compiled a list of local events happening this week for you to enjoy. From Pioneer Day celebrations to outdoor movies and bar trivia, the city is as lively as ever. For even more events this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar! 

Monday 07/22

What: Days of ’47 Rodeo 
Where: Utah State Fairpark
When: 07/22 at 4:30 p.m. 
The world’s only gold medal rodeo returns to the Fairpark this summer from 07/19 to 07/24. On night three of the rodeo, attendees can enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, food trucks, vendors and exhibits no admission ticket required. Then, starting at 6 p.m., the main event begins with live music, drone and firework shows and more. 

What: 2024 Float Preview Party
Where: Mountain America Expo Center
When: 07/22 at 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 
Meet the creators and technicians behind the 2024 Days of ’47 Parade floats before the general public. Vote for your favorite and enjoy entertainment, live bands clowns and more. 

Tuesday 07/23

What: Night Star Jazz Orchestra 
Where: the Gallivan Center
When: 07/23  at 7 p.m. 
A family-friendly events that includes free ballroom dance lessons and a vibrant fun atmosphere of live jazz music. 

Wednesday 07/24

What: Pioneer Day Drone Show
Where: Liberty Park 
When: 07/24 at 10 p.m. 
Celebrate pioneer day with a mesmerizing drone show that doesn’t pose a fire risk. The unique fusion of technology and artistry is fun for all ages and is free to attend. Food and beverages will be available from vendors throughout the park. The show begins at 10 p.m. 

What: Pioneer Day at Layton City 
Where: 437 N Wasatch Drive, Layton
When: 07/24 at 10 a.m. 
Layton has put together a packed program of festivities all Pioneer Day. Highlights include a food truck rally, craft stations, and the annual Electric Light Parade beginning at 10 p.m. 

What: Pioneer Days at This is the Place Heritage Park 
When: 07/24 at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
The annual celebration of Pioneer Day returns to This is the Place Heritage Park complete with a parade, panning for gold, art and craft project and more. Find tickets here. 

Thursday 07/25

What: Thursday Trivia
Where: Scion Cider 
When: 07/25 at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Scion’s weekly trivia event begins at 7 p.m. Grab a burger nextdoor at C9 market and settle in with a cold pour of local or national cider. 

What: Yvie Oddly Meet & Greet and Book Signing
When: Under the Umbrella Bookstore
When: 7/25 at 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 
Meet legendary drag performer Yvie Oddly as she speaks about her new memoir All About Yvie: Into the Oddity. 

What: Party on the Plaza
Where: Trolley Square
When: 07/25 at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
The summertime plaza series returns to Trolley Square featuring the Utah Fringe Festival, live music, food trucks and a beer garden from Moab Brewery. 

What: Cottonwood Heights Butlerville Days 
Where: Butler Park 
When: 07/25-07/27
Butler Park transforms into a weekend-long carnival to celebrate Pioneer day. The three-day event features vendor booths, food trucks, carnival rides, firework shows, a parade and more. 

Friday 07/26 

What: Liberty Park Outdoor Film Series Presents: Robot Dreams
Where: Liberty Park, East Side of the Park
When: 07/26 at 8 p.m. 
The Utah Film Center another exciting lineup of curated cinematic stories that is free and open to everyone. This Friday’s film is Robot Dreams, a film about a lonely Manhatten Dog that decides to build himself a robot companion. 

What: A Chappel Roan-Inspired Sing-A-Long
Where: Ember SLC
When: 97/26 at 5 p.m.  
Celebrate queer femininity, girly music and community at this Femininomenon sing-a-long. Dress up in your favorite Midwestern Princess fit and enjoy a night of dancing, along with local artists, food truck and more. 

Saturday 07/27

What: Girl Dinner pop-up series |
Where: Publik Coffee Roasters, S W Temple St.
When: 07/27 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Experience an immersive dining pop-up cooked and curated by female chefs. You can also enjoy an array of vendor booths from nail art to piercings, tattoos and jewelry. 

What: July Maker’s Market
Where: Second Summit Hard Cider 
When: 07/27 at 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
Visit Second Summit for an artisan market, live music and food trucks. This is a 21+ event. 

What: Wasatch Wildflower Festival
Where: Snowbird
When: 07/27 
Held annually, the Wildflower Festival celebrates the beauty and ecological diversity of wildflowers in the Wasatch Mountains. Visit from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy a self-guided wildflower walk hosted by Cottonwood Canyons Foundation. 

What: Urban Arts Festival 2024
Where: The Gateway
When: 07/27 – 07/28 
Utah’s largest free art festival features over 90 artist booths selling one-of-a-kind pieces for yourself and others. Guests can also enjoy a live mural painting, a car exhibit, and a pop up skate park. 

Sunday 07/28

What: Blue & Brews
Where: Snowbasin
When: 07/28 at 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
Snowbasin’s Earl Lodge Patio offers one of the best settings for live music with a beautiful backdrop, local brews and delicious summer food. July 28ths show features Angie Petty + The Truth, and headliner Shamarr Allan.

On Thursday, Musicians of the Utah Symphony shared a letter from composer John Williams (Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park), supporting the preservation of Abravanel Hall.

The planned Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) downtown development of a Sports, Entertainment, Culture and Convention (SECC) District has made the future uncertain for the famed symphony hall, which is also the home to the Utah Symphony. Neither Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, Salt Lake City officials nor SEG have given definitive answers as to what their current development plan will mean for the hall.

While the fate of Abravanel Hall hangs in the balance, an unofficial coalition, including the Musicians of the Utah Symphony, continues to coalesce to urge Salt Lake County to preserve the hall in its current location. 

The newest member of their ranks is John Williams, the widely celebrated composer of such film scores as Star Wars and JAWS. In his letter, Williams recounts his experiences conducting at Abravanel Hall and celebrates the Utah Symphony as one of the finest orchestras in the United States.

“Abravanel Hall, with its elegant design and splendid acoustics, is a crown jewel in the cultural life of Salt Lake City,” writes Williams. “It is an iconic landmark of which all your fellow citizens can and should be justly proud. It must be preserved for future generations to enjoy.”

His letter reminds Salt Lake City of Abravanel Hall’s cultural and historical significance. Williams recorded “Call of the Champions” there, the musical theme for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, with the Utah Symphony and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Members of the Utah Symphony responded with their admiration for Williams and gratitude for his support. Utah Symphony Concertmaster, Madeline Adkins, says, “The iconic American composer and conductor John Williams has had the opportunity to perform in all of the world’s top concert halls. It is an honor for Utah that he considers our magnificent Abravanel Hall to be among the finest—Maestro Williams has a true generosity of spirit, and we are so grateful for his support as we endeavor to preserve this beautiful space for future generations to enjoy.”

The preservation of Abravanel Hall has already garnered the support of the Utah American Institute of Architects, who stated emphatically, “Abravanel Hall is not a disposable building. It is not replaceable. And it is beloved.”

The members of Salt Lake City’s Planning Commission also agreed, recommending to the City Council and the Mayor that Abravanel Hall be preserved in its current location. 

A petition bearing tens of thousands of signatures is also online, calling for Abravanel Hall to be saved. 

For their part, the Musicians of Utah Symphony and the coalition of supporters of preserving Abravanel Hall are asking members of the public to contact their Salt Lake County Council and City Council representatives and urge them to save the hall. 

John Williams’ full letter in support of preserving Abravanel Hall:

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
I knew Maurice Abravanel, whom I admired greatly both as a person and as an artist, and I’ve been privileged on many occasions to conduct in his namesake concert hall in Salt Lake City, where I recorded my musical theme for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games with the Utah Symphony and your magnificent Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and where I conducted the Boston Pops Orchestra on several visits to your great city.
Abravanel Hall, with its elegant design and splendid acoustics, is a crown jewel in the cultural life of Salt Lake City. It is the home of the Utah Symphony, unquestionably one of our country’s finest orchestras. And it is an iconic landmark of which all your fellow citizens can and should be justly proud. It must be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In our fast-moving technological age, great music performed by world-class orchestras before live audiences is a vital thread that binds us to our cultural past and to our collective future. This simply wouldn’t be possible without temples of music like Abravanel Hall. I urge you to preserve and protect this artistic treasure.

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Looking for a way to liven up your week ahead? Luckily, Salt Lake City has no shortage of exciting events to fill out your calendar. To help you make a selection, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite happenings around-town, from outdoor concerts to art shows and fundraisers.

For even more events this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar! 

Monday 07/15

What: Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Series: The Revivalists
Where: Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre
When: 07/15 at 7:30 p.m. 
The popular summer concert series presents The Revivalists, an American rock band from New Orleans. Doors open at 6:30, make sure to arrive early with a lawn chair in hand for the best seats. Tickets from Red Butte are sold out, but can still be found on resale sites. 

What: Draper Days Horse Pull
Where: Andy Ballard Arena
When: 07/15 at 7 p.m. 
The annual Draper festival takes place from July 11 to the 20th and features events like movie nights, a 5k race, concerts and more. On the 15th, attendees can witness a horse pulling competition that’s been around since the early 1900s. The fun continues with more free activities like a petting zoo, pony rides, mechanical bull and more. 

What: Utah Museum Month 2024
Where: Various locations
When: The month of July 
July is Utah’s Museum Month! From science to dinosaurs to modern art, engage your brain this July by visiting at least five museums. To participate, download your Utah Museum Passport and use the directory to plan your visit. 

What: Pie & Wine Party
Where: Tea Zaanti
When: 07/15 at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
Enjoy an evening of live jazz while you sip on unique wines by the glass. Cute and delicious hand pies will be provided by Pie Fight SLC. 

Tuesday 07/16

What: Slash S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival: A Celebration of the Blues
Where: Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre
When: 07/16 at 6 p.m.
Slash, the Guns n’ Roses iconic lead guitarist, is bringing his S.E.R.P.E.N.T Festival: A Celebration of the Blues to Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. The all-star Blues lineup includes Keb’ Mo’, Samantha Fish, and Jackie Venson.

What: 14th Annual Skate Deck Show
Where: Urban Arts Gallery
When: 07/02–08/04
The Urban Arts Gallery’s annual Skate Deck competition invites artists of any age and skill level to design their own skate deck. Showcasing a dynamic fusion of perspective and skate culture, the entries are now on display at the gallery. The show will hang until Aug. 4th and guests at the Urban Arts Festival will be able to vote for their favorites on July 27th

Wednesday 07/17

What: Psychic Fair
Where: Golden Braid Books
When: 07/17 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Experience a personalized reading from one of the experienced psychic at Golden Braid. Services include tarot reading, astrology charting, palmistry and more. 

What: Sundance Film Festival Local Lens presents Skywalkers: A Love Story
Where: Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre
When: 07/17 at 9 p.m. 
A free outdoor screening presented by Sundance Film Festival. About the film: To save their career and relationship, a daredevil couple journeys across the globe to climb the world’s second-highest skyscraper and perform a bold acrobatic stunt on the spire. Find more outdoor movie screenings here. 

What: Millcreek Farmers Market
Where: Millcreek Commons
When: 07/17 at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
A midweek market with all your favorite local produce, handmade goods and delicious pantry items. Shoppers can also enjoy food demonstrations, gardening tips and other curated activities throughout the duration of the market. 

Thursday 07/18

What: Sangrias on the Savannah Fundraiser
Where: Hogle Zoo
When: 07/18 at 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Take in the sights of summer as you enjoy sangria and light bites at Hogle Zoo. Later, gain insight on the zoo’s lions from the lion-holding area where you can ask questions from keepers and witness a feeding. The end of the evening will feature a bidding auction for one-of-a-kind animal art and more. All proceeds go toward supporting life on the African savanna. Tickets are $100, 21+ only. 

What: Moonlight Market
Where: Church & State
When: 07/18 at 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
A grassroots flea market held every third Thursday of the month, the Moonlight Market hosts 20+ local artists and curators. The free event will also feature live music, art installations and coffee from Coffee Co. 

Friday 07/19

What: Open Streets Mariachi Festival
Where: Eccles Theatre Front Steps
When: 07/19 at 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
The Blocks SLC and Open Streets present a Mariachi Festival with performances from Sergio Fuentes Oseguera, Mariachi Fuego, Trios Los Charros and more. Learn more about 2024 Open Streets. 

What: Liberty Park Outdoor Film Series: Nine Days
Where: Liberty Park
When: 07/19 at 8 p.m. 
Free and open to the public, this outdoor film series from Utah Film Center will feature Nine Days, a film following a reclusive man as he conducts a series of interviews with human souls for a chance to be reborn.

Saturday 07/20

What: Daybreak Fizz Fest 
Where: SoDa Row (11274 Kestrel Rise Rd)
When: 07/20 at 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
Daybreak’s annual arts festival brings the community together to showcase and celebrate art in many forms. The festival will feature live music, a silent disco, an auction and a performance from Gina Marie Osmond Band. 

What: Celebration of Colors Afrobeats Party
Where: Drift Lounge at Woodbine
When: 07/20 at 9 p.m. 
AfrofusionSLC presents the ultimate celebration of inclusion and diversity with an Afrobeat, Afrodancehall, Afro-Carribean and Afrohouse party. Dress in your most colorful fits and get ready for a night of dancing!

Sunday 07/21

What: Sip and Slay Drag Brunch
Where: HK Brewing
When: 07/21 at 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. 
Join hostess Ivy Dior Stephens for an afternoon of fabulous drag performances and sips from HK brewing. The cast includes Boise legend Coco Freeo and Cookie Puss, alongside local greats Madazon Can-Can, Zoe Zigman Stephens and hostess Ivy. 

What: Mt. Majestic Music Series
Where: Brighton’s Alpine Rose Deck
When: 07/21 at 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. 
Enjoy music from local bands and homestyle BBQ against Brighton’s picturesque Big Cottonwood backdrop. July 21st will feature singer songwriter Michelle Moonshine.