We at Salt Lake magazine need no convincing of Utah’s bestness. But we’ll also be the first to admit that living in the Beehive State isn’t always easy. Between ugly redistricting battles, eye-popping housing costs, resource-draining data centers funded by sharky venture capitalists, and, oh yeah, a lake on the brink of collapse—being a Utahn requires grit. ⁠
⁠
So if you are searching for a bit of reassurance in a time of geographical trepidation, let this issue be your guide. At its core, our annual Best of the Beehive edition is meant to inspire readers to love where they live. Whether it’s introducing you to refugees who have turned their struggles into success through culinary training, or fashion-forward designers who are putting Utah on the map for streetwear, these stories celebrate the people shaping our communities.⁠
⁠
Our ode to loving local reaches its crescendo in the eponymous feature, Best of the Beehive, where we’ve tapped the community to nominate the things, people, and places that continue to make Utah a place they are proud to call home. Consider these winners and finalists as 327 more reasons to love where you live.