July is one of those extra-special summer months for Utahns. While the rest of the country receives just one day to shoot off fireworks, grill up a storm, and camp out overnight to stake their claim on the parade route, ancestors of the tenacious Mormon pioneers receive two days of office closures and festivities. Pioneer Day officially commemorates the day Brigham Young declared, “This is the place,” on July 24th, 1847. Unofficially, it’s another reason to bask in the slow days of summer and indulge in some “Pie & Beer.” From parades to fireworks displays and rodeos, here’s where to celebrate Pioneer Day in Utah.
What: Days of ‘47 Parade
Where: Route begins at South Temple and State Street
When: 7/24 at 9 a.m.
Join thousands of spectators at the annual Days of ‘47 parade, where floats, horses, performers and bands frolic through the streets. Veteran parade goers will camp out the night before to claim the best spots, so arrive early or be prepared to watch from a distance! The festivities continue all weekend long with a rodeo back at the Utah State Fair Park, learn more about that here.
What: Orem Pioneer Day Celebration & Fireworks
Where: The Orchard at University Place
When: 7/24 at 5 p.m
Let the kids get out all their wiggles at a short dance party with performances by Dj Paul Sleep, Music City Groove and more. Afterward, settle in on the grass for a breathtaking fireworks show set to lively music. The Pioneer Day celebration will also include a market of over 50 local vendors.
What: Pioneer Day at This is the Place Heritage Park
Where: This is the Place
When: 7/24 at 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Take a peek into Utah’s pioneer past at the very spot Brigham Young declared, “This is the right place. Drive on.” In a nod to tradition, This is the Place Heritage Park is hosting a day-long celebration featuring a handcart parade, watermelon eating contest and dancing.
What: Ogden Pioneer Days
Where: Spencer Fox Eccles Pioneer Stadium and more
When: 7/19-7/24
Ogden has been the home of the state’s biggest statehood celebration since 1934. For five nights, attendees enjoy parades, PRCA rodeos, pageants and more. The festivities come to a head on July 24th with a Horse & Hitch Parade, Miss Rodeo Utah Coronation and a drone show. Find the full schedule of events here.
What: Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Grand Parade
Where: Center Street & Main Street
When: 7/24 at 9 a.m.
Celebrate Utah County’s largest 24th of July Parade at Spanish Fork’s Fiesta Days. The lively procession will include marching bands, community groups, businesses, floats and a few waves from local royalty, of course. After the parade, head over to Sports Park for a spectacular fireworks show set to synchronized music. Fireworks start approximately at 10 p.m.
What: Kamas Valley Fiesta Days
Where: Various Venues in Kamas
When: 7/19-7/26
Fiesta Days has been a tradition in the small mountain town of Kamas for nearly 80 years. The week of fun kicks off with car shows, bingo and casual sporting events, all leading up to Pioneer Day weekend. From July 24 through the 26th, the town is hosting a packed program of parades, does, live music and historic activities. Find the full schedule here.
What: Salt Lake Bees v. Albuquerque Isotopes and Post-Game Fireworks
Where: The Ballpark at America First Square
When: 7/24 at 7:05 p.m.
Honor Utah’s pioneer heritage, and America’s favorite pastime at the Salt Lake Bees’ new stadium in Daybreak. Although the team has moved across the valley, they are still keeping the same old July 24th traditions with a lively post-game fireworks show.
What: Cottonwood Heights Butlerville Days
Where: Butler Park, Cottonwood Heights
When: 7/24-7/26
A neighborhood celebration for all ages featuring food trucks, carnival rides, classic car shows, drone shows and more. The Butlerville Days Parade begins at 9 a.m on Saturday, July 26th—arrive early for the best viewing areas.
What: Bountiful Handcart Days
Where: Multiple locations in Bountiful
When: 7/25-7/26
Celebrate Pioneer Day in Bountiful City this year with a 75-year-old tradition. This year, the event includes food, games and activities, along with a concert, in Bountiful City Park on Friday, July 25; and 1K, 5K and half-marathon races and a parade on Saturday, July 26.
What: Real Salt Lake vs. San Jose Earthquakes and Firework Show
Where: America First Field, Sandy
When: 7/26 at 7:30 p.m.
Cheer on the Real Salt Lake team as they take on the San Jose Earthquakes. The game ends with a firework display to commemorate Pioneer Day.
Special Mention
What: 801 Days
Where: Gallivan Center
When: 8/01 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Celebrating the new holiday. 801 Day is a celebration of Utah’s favorite area code (sorry 385-ers). Hosted by City Cast Salt Lake, the free block party features a beer garden, live music, artisan marketplace, food trucks and more! This event is free to attend but requires a RSVP, do so here!
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