Like many places in America, Utah and Park City observe holidays that are specific to its culture and traditions. Visiting during these times can provide a unique perspective on the local area and its history.
STATEWIDE
Pioneer Day
When: July 24th
This statewide holiday celebrates the arrival of the Mormon’s pioneers to the Utah Valley on July 24, 1847, led by Brigham Young after a 111-day journey from Winter Quarters, Nebraska. This original group consisted of 143 men, 3 women, and 2 children and the arrival date is known as Pioneer Day.
The day is honored with major festivities that include a massive Days of '47 Parade in Salt Lake City, the Deseret News Marathon, rodeos, historical reenactments, drone/fireworks shows, and family events at This is the Place Heritage Park.
Local Insight: This day is affectionately known as Pie and Beer Day, by some of the non-LDS residents.
PARK CITY
Miner’s Day
When: Labor Day
In 1868, U.S. Soldiers discovered silver in the mountains surrounding Park City. A year later the first mining claim was recorded and soon after miners, explorers, and adventurers from all over the world flooded the area. By 1884, Park City was a fully incorporated township.
Each year on Labor Day, Park City remembers its mining legacy with the Miner’s Day Celebration. The festival includes a 5K fun-run, a pancake breakfast, the annual "running of the balls," a genuine hometown parade, and an afternoon of music, games, and mucking and drilling competitions.
Local insight: Sponsor your own golf ball for the “running of the balls” event. If you are the winner, you win a prize, plus all proceeds go to local community organizations.
OTHER PARK CITY TRADITIONS
Santa Comes Down the Town Lift
When: December 20th
A beloved December tradition where Santa makes a special public arrival sliding down the historic Town Lift onto Main Street. Santa Claus typically arrives around 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM and celebrates the holiday season by hosting hot cocoa, cookies, and carols.
Torchlight Parades
When: December 24th at Park City Mountain and December 30th at Deer Valley Resort.
A festival Holiday Eve and post-Christmas tradition where ski and ride school instructors weave down the night time slopes of Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort carrying glowing torches.
December 24, Christmas Eve at Park City Mountain (Canyons Village or Mountain Village base)
Around 5:00 PM–6:00 PM.
Featuring Santa Claus and accompanied by complimentary hot cocoa and cookies.
December 30 at Deer Valley Resort, (Big Stick ski run behind Snow Park Lodge)
Around 6:00 PM (dusk)
Featuring hot cider, cocoa, and cookies starting at 5:30 PM
Local Insight: For the Christmas Eve Parade stand slightly back from the main plazas. This will give you a clearer view of the full torch-light descent.
