Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
Few events spark as much excitement and enthusiasm across Utah as Pioneer Day on July 24. This cherished statewide holiday is packed with celebrations and activities that honor the historic moment in 1847 when Brigham Young and the first settlers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley. From dazzling fireworks and thrilling rodeos to festive parades, Pioneer Day offers everything you need to join in the grand festivities and celebrate the Beehive State's rich heritage.
Pioneer Day is a celebration for everyone, not just those with pioneer ancestry or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It honors the faith, courage, and resilience of the early settlers who blazed a trail for future generations to cherish this beautiful land.
That's something worth celebrating — and here are a few fun ways to do it.
Cook up some pioneer favorites
Every great celebration starts with delicious food, and Pioneer Day is no exception! While they weren't known for fancy pastries or artisanal baking, pioneers mastered the art of hearty, satisfying meals. So dust off your Dutch ovens, churn some fresh butter and whip up classic cornmeal pancakes alongside your great-great-great grandmother's famous apple pie. It's a delicious way to experience comfort food at its finest and honor the spirit of the pioneers.
Visit a historical pioneer site
An easy way to honor your forebears is to learn a little more about them. Luckily, Utah is full of historical sites where you can teach your family about the pioneers. Obvious standouts include the Pioneer Memorial Museum and This is the Place Heritage Park. But there are lesser-known — and potentially much less crowded — places to visit as well. If you don't mind driving a bit away from Salt Lake, you can put Cove Fort, Fort Deseret and Fort Bluff on this list.
Go to Lagoon
This may not be the most heat- and crowd-free activity on the list, your kids likely won't protest if you take them to Lagoon for the day. A walk through Pioneer Village can teach them a lot about days gone by — and then they can continue screaming their heads off on all of the thrill rides.
Make pioneer crafts
Learning to make a corn husk doll is almost a rite of passage for anyone who really wants to get into the spirit of Pioneer Day. And if that doesn't appeal to your kids, perhaps they'd enjoy quilting, soap carving or any of these other activities from The Crafty Crow.
Play pioneer games
Imagine how proud the pioneers would be to see kids and adults alike setting aside their phones for some good old-fashioned fun! Bring your family together with classic games like hopscotch, marbles, stick pulling and tug-of-war. You might be amazed at how entertaining these simple, timeless activities can be.
See a drone show
Fireworks can be fun to watch, but a drone show is an excellent alternative if you've got a four-legged friend or someone else in your family who's sensitive to loud sounds. The Salt Lake City Pioneer Day Drone Show takes place at 10 p.m. on July 24 in Liberty Park. It's free and family-friendly, so bring your crew and enjoy a spectacular light display!
Watch the Days of '47 Parade
Utah's annual Days of '47 Parade takes pride in being one of the oldest parades in the country and for many Utahns, it's a time-honored tradition. They brave the heat for the amazing floats, bands, clowns, horses and several other entries that entertain thousands each year. In fact, some people are so intent on seeing it in person that they camp out along the parade route the night before.
Of course, if you don't like crowds or scorching summer temperatures, you can always watch the parade live at 9 a.m. on KSL 5 TV. The Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy will also host a Float Preview Party on July 20 and 22 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It's a free event with live entertainment — and you can vote for your favorite float! Find out more at daysof47.com.
9 incredible cookies to make for your next movie night
Whether you're a true cookie monster or an occasional taster, here are nine incredible cookies you can make for your next movie night.Watch a pioneer movie
If you'd rather escape the summer heat and stay indoors, there are plenty of pioneer-era movies to enjoy with the whole family. Dust off an old classic like "Legacy," cry your eyes out with "17 Miracles," or opt for the more contemporary and light-hearted "Trek."
It's even better if you've got some leftover pie or taffy to munch on while you do it! For more movie suggestions, check out this list of must-see pioneer films from LDS Living.
Relax with a Minky Couture blanket
Who says you can't enjoy a touch of modern luxury on Pioneer Day? After a full day of celebrations, kick back and relax in a sumptuously soft blanket from Minky Couture. These cozy blankets are the perfect companion for your pioneer movie night, adding a layer of comfort to your evening. Explore the full collection at softminkyblankets.com and discover your new favorite way to unwind!
