Pioneer Day is an official holiday, settled by Mormon pioneers. The event is celebrated on the 24th of July in Utah and surrounding states. It commemorates the day of the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. But it also has strong links with the holiday in the LDS Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). The celebrations include reenactments of the pioneers' entry into the Salt Lake Valley, parades, concerts, festivals, rodeos, and fireworks. On this day most governmental offices and many businesses are closed.
The Days of '47 Parade in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City was founded by Brigham Young and a group of 148 Mormons in in 1847, so Pioneer Day is celebrated with much grandeur in the area. The main highlight of the holiday is the Days of '47 Parade, one of the oldest community processions, and is a long-standing Salt Lake City tradition. The parade, which features colorful floats, reenactors, bands, clowns, and various entertainment, always starts at 9 am on July 24. The route starts at South Temple and State Street, goes East to 200 East, turns South to 800 South, and then heads east to Liberty Park at 600 East. The parade is so popular that many families camp out on the streets the night before to secure a good spot to see the morning procession.
This Is the Place Heritage Park Pioneer Day
This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City holds its own Pioneer Day Celebration with many family-friendly Activities. Running from 10 am to 5 pm on July 24, the celebration features panning for gold, riding ponies and trains, enjoying art and craft projects, and much more. The highlight of the day is candy cannon pouring old-fashioned taffy down Main Street. Admission is $18.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (3-11), and 16.95 for seniors over 65.
Native American Celebrations at Liberty Park
Native American Celebration has been a part of Pioneer Day for over 20 years. The annual event runs from 10 am to 9 pm on July 24th in Liberty Park. The highlights include the Annual Intertribal Powwow, arts and crafts fair, food vendors, kids' activities, and a laser light show to end the day. Powwow begins at noon, followed by a festival and various entertainment.
