Pioneer Day, also known as Days of '47 or simply the 24th of July, marks the day in 1847 when Brigham Young and the Mormon pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley. It's an extra summer holiday for most Utahns, celebrated in much the same way as the 4th of July with picnics, parades, rodeos, concerts and fireworks.
Days of '47 events are held throughout the spring, but most occur in the week or so before the 24th. Here's a list some of the best Pioneer Day events.
Family Fun Day at Utah State Fairpark
Courtesy Days of '47
The Days of ’47 Family Fun Day brings families together to celebrate Utah’s heritage. Attractions include:
- The Days of ’47 Rodeo Games
- Educational Crafts
- Art Garden
- Magic Show
- Carnival Games
- Pioneer Demonstrations
- Live Music and Entertainment
- Dancing
- Mini King and Queen Royalty Competition
Saturday, July 7, 2012, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Utah State Fairpark
North Temple and 1100 W.
801-931-5526
Days of '47 All Horse Parade
Courtesy Days of '47
The All Horse Parade returns to Sandy in 2012 with beautiful equestrian entries, colorful costuming and rip-roarin' antics by the Cold Water Gang, a band of local horseback "outlaws" who are intent on catching your attention. The parade's unique charm lies in the fact that only horse-related entries participate and spectators can see them at close range. The parade will start at Sandy City Hall and wind around a route that will allow for great visibility no matter where you are.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012, 7 p.m.
Free
Days of '47 Pops Concert
Courtesy KUTV 2
Sterling Poulson in his 16th year as music director and conductor of the Pops invites you to join the Choral Arts Society of Utah Master Chorale and the West Valley Symphony of Utah, Donny Gilbert, conductor, for two great nights of fabulous music. This year’s line-up features Nathan Osmond, an accomplished singer, songwriter, producer and motivational speaker.
The concert is free, but tickets are required. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope to POPS TICKETS, PO BOX 2623, Salt Lake City, UT 84110, or visit Daynes Music, 6935 S. State St. Limit 6 tickets per request. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Those without tickets will be seated on a first come, first served basis after 7:15 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, July 13-14, 7:30 p.m
Abravanel Hall
123 West South Temple
801-363-9708 or spoulson@comcast.net
Youth Parade and Youth Festival
Courtesy Days of '47
This all-kids parade is a fun warmup for the "big show" on the 24th! The parade is followed by a Youth Festival at the Salt Lake City and County Building.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Parade starts 10 a.m.
Youth Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Route starts at 600 E. and 500 S., runs west on 500 S. to 200 E. and ends at the City and County Building, 200 E. 450 S.
Free, Televised by KUTV 2
For more info contact Jodene Smith, 801-254-4656, jsmith@daysof47.com, or Jim Williams, 801-295-1914, jwilliams@daysof47.com
Float Preview Party
Courtesy Days of '47
Get a close-up preview of the Days of '47 parade floats and vote for your favorite for the "People's Choice" and "Children's Choice" awards.
Monday and Tuesday, July 16 and 17, 2012
11 a.m.-9 p.m.
South Towne Expo Center
9575 S. State St.
Free
For more info contact Jodene Smith, 801-254-4656, jsmith@daysof47.com
Days of '47 Rodeo
Courtesy Maverik Center
The Days of ‘47 Rodeo is traditionally Utah’s largest rodeo, drawing world champion cowboys, cowgirls and rough stock.
July 19, 20, 21, 23 and 24, 2012, 7 p.m.
Maverik Center
3200 S. Decker Lake Dr. (2200 W.)
801-988-8888
Tickets: $10-$50 plus fees, Parking $7
Pioneer Day Concert with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
The concert continues an annual tradition of commemorating the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.
Friday and Saturday, July 20 and 21, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
LDS Conference Center
60 W. North Temple
801-570-0080
Free tickets have already been distributed, but standby seating is usually available. Standby line forms at the north gate of Temple Square at around 5 p.m.; tickets distributed at 6 p.m. The concert will also be broadcast on TV, radio and internet; see website for details.
First Encampment Hike
Photo by Clint Gardner
During this family-oriented event, you can walk in the footsteps of the 1847 pioneers in a festive and commemorative hike that follows Emigration Creek through beautiful Salt Lake City neighborhoods. Five miles total.
Saturday, July 21, 2012, 7 a.m.
Donner Park (2770 E. 990 S.)
The hike is free, but please register in advance. Contact Kathi Izatt, 801-257-7959, kizatt@daysof47.com.
Brother Brigham's Ball
Courtesy This is the Place Heritage Park
Brother Brigham's Ball revives an early Utah tradition with old-fashioned music, dance and games. Pioneer era dress is suggested.
Saturday, July 21, 2012, 6-8 p.m.
This is the Place Heritage Park
2601 East Sunnyside Ave.
801-924-7502
Tickets $5 per person
Real Salt Lake vs. Colorado Rockies
Courtesy Real Salt Lake
Real Salt Lake and the Colorado Rockies will battle for the Rocky Mountain Cup Saturday, July 21 at 8 p.m., with holiday fireworks after the game.
Rio Tinto Stadium
9256 S. State St.
Sandy, UT
801-727-2700
