May 31

National Utah Day

Happy National Utah Day! Join us in celebrating the natural beauty and unique culture of the Beehive State.

Yearly Date

May 31

Observed in

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the beautiful state of Utah on National Utah Day, which occurs annually on January 4! This day is all about recognizing and appreciating the unique culture, history, and natural landscapes of the Beehive State. Did you know that Utah is home to five national parks, including Zion and Bryce Canyon? It's also known for its delicious cuisine, such as fry sauce and funeral potatoes. So whether you're a resident or just a fan of this amazing state, let's come together to honor all things Utah on this special day.

National Utah Day Timeline

1847

Mormon Pioneers' Arrival

Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young, settled in what is now Salt Lake City, marking the beginning of large-scale settlement in Utah.

1850

Utah Territory Formation

The U.S. Congress passed the Act of September 9, 1850, which officially established the Utah Territory.

1896

Statehood Achieved

On January 4, Utah officially joined the Union as the 45th state, and Salt Lake City was named as its capital.

1919

Zion National Park Established

Zion National Park, known for its striking red-rock landscapes and beautiful hiking trails, was established.

2002

Winter Olympics Held

Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics, placing Utah on a global stage and boosting tourism in the state.

2017

First National Utah Day

National Utah Day was first acknowledged by the National Day Calendar organization in 2017, giving the state its own day of recognition.

How to Celebrate National Utah Day

1 Explore Utah's National Parks

On National Utah Day, take the opportunity to visit one of Utah's five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Each park offers stunning landscapes and unique experiences that showcase the beauty of Utah.

2 Try a traditional Utah dish

Celebrate Utah's culinary heritage by trying a traditional dish such as fry sauce, Funeral Potatoes, or Jell-O salad. These dishes are popular in Utah and can be found at many restaurants or made at home.

3 Attend a local festival or parade

Many cities and towns in Utah hold festivals or parades on National Utah Day. Look up events in your area and attend one to celebrate with your community and learn more about the state's culture and history.

4 Visit a historical landmark

Utah is rich in history, and there are many landmarks and monuments that commemorate significant events in the state's past. Take a trip to one of these sites, such as the Golden Spike National Historic Site or the This is the Place Heritage Park, to learn more about Utah's history.

5 Watch a Utah-themed movie or TV show

Gather some friends and watch a movie or TV show set in Utah or featuring famous Utah landmarks. Some options include "127 Hours," "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," or "Westworld."

Why We Love National Utah Day

Celebrating the beauty of Utah

National Utah Day is a time to honor and appreciate the stunning landscapes, national parks, and unique culture that makes Utah so special. From the red rock deserts to the snowy mountain peaks, there's no denying the natural beauty of this state.

Pride in local traditions and history

On National Utah Day, people can come together and celebrate the rich history and traditions of this state. Whether it's through festivals, food, or storytelling, there are countless ways to honor and preserve the unique heritage of Utah.

Embracing the spirit of adventure

Utah is known for its outdoor adventures, from skiing in Park City to hiking in Zion National Park. National Utah Day is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of all the amazing activities this state has to offer and create new memories with friends and family.