Discover Utah’s vibrant festival scene from Sundance to rodeos, concerts to cultural celebrations
Utah’s festival and event calendar reflects the state’s unique blend of outdoor adventure, arts culture, pioneer heritage, and modern creativity. From world-famous film festivals to small-town celebrations, from major concerts to cultural gatherings, Utah hosts hundreds of events throughout the year that showcase the state’s diverse character. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor planning your trip around special events, this comprehensive guide covers the best festivals and annual events across Utah.
Why Utah’s Festival Scene is Special
Utah’s event calendar is shaped by several factors: the state’s strong sense of community, diverse cultural heritage, outdoor lifestyle, and growing arts scene. The mild climate allows for year-round events, while the stunning natural settings provide unforgettable backdrops for festivals. Salt Lake City’s status as a rapidly growing urban center brings major touring acts and events, while small towns maintain authentic, generations-old traditions.
Major Annual Festivals by Season
Winter Events (December-February)
Sundance Film Festival (January)
- Location: Park City and Salt Lake City
- When: Late January (10 days)
- What: The premier independent film festival in the world, showcasing cutting-edge cinema, documentaries, and emerging filmmakers
- Highlights: Film premieres, celebrity sightings, industry panels, parties on Main Street
- Pro Tips: Buy tickets months in advance, stay in Salt Lake City if Park City is booked, use festival shuttles
- Attendance: 120,000+
- Cost: Individual tickets $20-50, packages available
Utah International Tattoo & Arts Convention (January/February)
- Location: Salt Palace Convention Center, Salt Lake City
- What: One of the largest tattoo conventions in the world
- Highlights: Live tattooing, art competitions, exhibitions, music
- For: Tattoo enthusiasts, art lovers
FIS World Cup Skiing (Various dates)
- Locations: Deer Valley, Park City, Snowbird
- What: International ski racing competitions
- Highlights: Watching world-class athletes, Olympic hopefuls competing
- **Free to attend at most locations
Thanksgiving Point Winter Lights (November-January)
- Location: Lehi
- What: Massive holiday light display with millions of lights
- Highlights: Drive-through display, perfect for families
- Cost: Per vehicle pricing
Spring Events (March-May)
SLC/SL,UT Saint Patrick’s Day Parade (March)
- Location: Downtown Salt Lake City
- When: Saturday closest to March 17
- What: One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the West
- Highlights: Parade, Irish music, food vendors, pub crawls
- **Free event
Festival of Colors (Holi Festival) (March)
- Location: Spanish Fork (Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple)
- What: Celebration of Holi, the Hindu festival of colors and spring
- Highlights: Throwing colored powder, music, dancing, Indian food
- Cultural significance: One of the largest Holi celebrations outside India
- **Free admission (donations appreciated)
Utah Arts Festival (June – technically early summer)
- Location: Downtown Salt Lake City (Library Square)
- When: Late June (4 days)
- What: Massive celebration of visual and performing arts
- Highlights: 140+ artist booths, live music on 5 stages, performance art, food vendors, interactive art installations
- Attendance: 80,000+
- Cost: $15 general admission, kids free
Moab Arts Festival (May)
- Location: Moab
- What: Art show featuring regional and national artists
- Highlights: Red rock backdrop, artist demonstrations, live music
- **Perfect to combine with: Arches/Canyonlands visit
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations (May)
- Location: Various cities, largest in Salt Lake City
- What: Celebrating Mexican culture and heritage
- Highlights: Music, dance, authentic food, cultural performances
- **Various free events throughout the state
Summer Events (June-August)
Utah Shakespeare Festival (June-October)
- Location: Cedar City
- When: Summer through fall
- What: Tony Award-winning theatrical festival featuring Shakespeare and contemporary plays
- Highlights: Professional productions, backstage tours, educational seminars, pre-show activities
- Venue: Beautiful outdoor theater and indoor venues
- Ticket prices vary: $25-90
- Pro Tip: Make reservations for plays and lodging well in advance
Utah Valley Marathon and Half Marathon (June)
- Location: Start in Provo Canyon, finish in Provo
- What: Scenic downhill marathon and half marathon
- Highlights: Beautiful canyon views, Boston Marathon qualifier, runner-friendly
- Registration: Opens months in advance
Days of ’47 Celebration (July)
- Location: Salt Lake City and surrounding areas
- When: Week surrounding July 24 (Pioneer Day)
- What: Utah’s biggest summer celebration commemorating Mormon pioneers’ arrival
- Highlights: Parade (one of the largest in U.S.), rodeo, marathon, fireworks
- Historical significance: State holiday in Utah
- **Most events free
Utah State Fair (September – technically early fall)
- Location: Salt Lake County Fairpark
- When: Early September (11 days)
- What: Classic state fair experience
- Highlights: Carnival rides, concerts, rodeo, agricultural exhibits, food vendors
- Admission: $10-15, parking extra
Park City Food & Wine Classic (July)
- Location: Park City/Deer Valley
- What: Premium food and wine festival featuring celebrity chefs
- Highlights: Grand tasting events, cooking demos, wine seminars
- Cost: Premium pricing ($200-500+ for various events)
Ogden Music Festival (July)
- Location: Ogden Amphitheater
- What: Multi-day music festival
- Highlights: National touring acts, local bands, food trucks
- Genre: Rock, indie, alternative
- **Ticket prices vary
Peach Days (September – early fall)
- Location: Brigham City
- When: Labor Day weekend
- What: Celebration of peach harvest
- Highlights: Parade, carnival, car show, peach-themed treats, local vendors
- **Free admission to festival
Twilight Concert Series (July-September)
- Location: Salt Lake City (Pioneer Park)
- When: Thursday evenings throughout summer
- What: Free outdoor concert series
- Highlights: National and local acts, food trucks, community atmosphere
- Genre: Varies widely – indie, electronic, hip-hop, rock
- **Free admission
SITLA Concert Series (Summer)
- Location: Mill Creek Canyon, Salt Lake City
- What: Outdoor concerts in a natural amphitheater setting
- Highlights: Beautiful forest setting, family-friendly atmosphere
- **Ticket prices vary
Park City Kimball Arts Festival (August)
- Location: Historic Main Street, Park City
- What: Juried fine art festival
- Highlights: 200+ artists, live music, mountain setting
- **Free admission
Utah Renaissance Festival (August-September)
- Location: Cedar Fort (southwest of Salt Lake City)
- What: Renaissance-themed festival with costumed performers
- Highlights: Jousting, artisan demonstrations, comedy shows, turkey legs
- **Admission charged
Fall Events (September-November)
Great Salt Lake Bird Festival (May – technically late spring)
- Location: Farmington Bay area
- What: Celebrating the millions of migratory birds at Great Salt Lake
- Highlights: Guided bird watching tours, workshops, vendor fair
- For: Bird enthusiasts, nature lovers
St. George Marathon (October)
- Location: Start near Pine Valley, finish in St. George
- What: Scenic “Marathon in the Parks” with dramatic downhill course
- Highlights: Beautiful red rock scenery, popular qualifying race
- Registration: Opens early, fills quickly
Formula Sun Grand Prix (July – technically summer)
- Location: Utah Motorsports Campus, Tooele
- What: Solar-powered car racing competition
- Highlights: Innovation, engineering, sustainability focus
- **Unique event showcasing alternative energy
Oktoberfest Celebrations (September-October)
- Location: Snowbird Resort, various breweries statewide
- What: Traditional Bavarian celebration
- Highlights: German food, beer, music, lederhosen
- **Snowbird’s is largest in Utah
Pumpkin Walk (October)
- Location: American West Heritage Center, Wellsville
- What: Spectacular pumpkin carving displays
- Highlights: Elaborate carved pumpkin scenes, corn maze, fall activities
- **Perfect for families
Greek Festival (September)
- Location: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Salt Lake City
- What: Celebrating Greek culture and cuisine
- Highlights: Authentic Greek food, dancing, tours of cathedral
- **One of Utah’s most popular food festivals
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations (November)
- Location: Various cities, largest in Salt Lake City
- What: Day of the Dead celebrations honoring Mexican heritage
- Highlights: Altars, art exhibitions, performances, traditional food
- **Cultural significance and community celebration
Year-Round and Multi-Season Events
Saturday Market at the Gateway (Summer months)
- Location: The Gateway, Salt Lake City
- What: Weekly farmers market and artisan fair
- Highlights: Local produce, crafts, food trucks, live music
Salt Lake Farmers Market (Multiple locations, year-round)
- Locations: Various including Pioneer Park, Sugar House Park
- What: Fresh local produce, artisan goods, prepared foods
- Schedule: Varies by location and season
Downtown Farmers Market (Summer)
- Location: Pioneer Park, Salt Lake City
- When: Saturdays throughout summer
- What: Large farmers market with entertainment
- Highlights: Local vendors, food trucks, community gathering
Genre-Specific Festival Calendar
Film and Media
Sundance Film Festival (January) – Park City/Salt Lake Damn These Heels Film Festival (August) – Salt Lake City (LGBTQ+ cinema) Slamdance Film Festival (January) – Park City (alternative to Sundance) Salt Lake City Film Festival (November) – Salt Lake City
Music Festivals
Das Energi (August) – Salt Lake City (electronic dance music) Reggae Rise Up Utah (May) – Salt Lake City Twilight Concert Series (July-September) – Salt Lake City Park City Song Summit (Various dates) – Park City Utah Arts Festival (June) – Salt Lake City (includes music stages) Utah Symphony Deer Valley Music Festival (Summer) – Park City
Food and Drink
Utah Brewers Festival (April/May) – Various locations Park City Food & Wine Classic (July) – Park City Greek Festival (September) – Salt Lake City Living Traditions Festival (May) – Salt Lake City (food from various cultures) Utah Restaurant Association Events – Various throughout year
Cultural and Heritage
Festival of Colors (March) – Spanish Fork Greek Festival (September) – Salt Lake City Living Traditions Festival (May) – Salt Lake City Dia de los Muertos (November) – Various locations Chinese New Year Celebrations (January/February) – Salt Lake City
Outdoor and Sports
St. George Marathon (October) – St. George Utah Valley Marathon (June) – Provo Snowbird’s Oktoberfest (September-October) – Snowbird Tour of Utah (Cycling, August) – Statewide Outdoor Retailer Shows – Salt Lake City (industry trade shows)
Arts and Crafts
Utah Arts Festival (June) – Salt Lake City Park City Kimball Arts Festival (August) – Park City Moab Arts Festival (May) – Moab Utah Renaissance Festival (August-September) – Cedar Fort
Regional Event Highlights
Salt Lake City Area
The state’s capital hosts the majority of large-scale festivals, from Sundance overflow events to summer concert series. The city’s diverse population supports cultural festivals representing communities from around the world.
Best Neighborhoods for Events:
- Downtown: Major festivals, concerts, parades
- Sugar House: Community events, farmers markets
- The Gateway: Markets, outdoor screenings
- Liberty Park: Community gatherings, smaller festivals
Park City
Beyond Sundance, Park City maintains a year-round event calendar leveraging its resort town infrastructure and mountain setting.
Notable Events:
- Sundance Film Festival (January)
- Park City Food & Wine Classic (July)
- Park City Kimball Arts Festival (August)
- Fourth of July celebration
- Christmas celebrations
Provo/Utah Valley
Home to BYU and a growing arts scene, Utah Valley blends educational events with community traditions.
Notable Events:
- Freedom Festival (July)
- Rooftop Concert Series (Summer)
- Various university events and performances
Moab
Small-town charm meets outdoor adventure in Moab’s event calendar.
Notable Events:
- Moab Arts Festival (May)
- Jeep Safari (April)
- Folk Festival (November)
- Mountain biking events throughout year
Ogden
Northern Utah’s hub combines railroad heritage with a growing arts scene.
Notable Events:
- Ogden Music Festival (July)
- Harvest Moon Celebration (September)
- First Friday Art Stroll (monthly)
St. George/Southern Utah
Warmer climate allows for earlier spring events and unique desert festivals.
Notable Events:
- St. George Marathon (October)
- St. George Arts Festival (April)
- Tuacahn summer amphitheater season
- Springdale events (near Zion)
Planning Your Festival Visit
Booking Accommodations
- Book early for major events: Sundance, Days of ’47, Outdoor Retailer shows
- Consider nearby towns: Save money by staying outside event epicenters
- Use vacation rentals: Often better value for groups and festival weekends
Transportation Tips
- Public transit: UTA serves many Salt Lake area events well
- Parking: Arrive early or use ride-share for popular events
- Festival shuttles: Many events offer dedicated transportation
- Walking: Downtown Salt Lake and Park City events very walkable
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and hat: High altitude intensifies sun exposure
- Layers: Temperature swings common, especially at mountain events
- Reusable water bottle: Many events have refill stations
- Cash: Some vendors don’t accept cards
- Comfortable shoes: Expect walking at most festivals
Cost Considerations
Free Events:
- Twilight Concert Series
- Days of ’47 Parade
- Many cultural festivals
- Downtown farmers markets
Budget-Friendly:
- Utah Arts Festival ($15 admission)
- State Fair
- Most food festivals
Premium Events:
- Sundance Film Festival
- Park City Food & Wine Classic
- Major concerts at venues
Combining Events with Attractions
Many festivals pair well with Utah’s natural attractions:
- Moab Arts Festival + Arches/Canyonlands
- Sundance + Skiing
- St. George events + Zion National Park
- Summer festivals + Wasatch hiking
Family-Friendly Festival Guide
Best Events for Families:
- Utah Arts Festival – Interactive art, multiple entertainment stages, food variety
- Days of ’47 Celebration – Parade, rodeo, family-friendly fireworks
- Utah State Fair – Carnival, animals, competitions
- Festival of Colors – Fun, colorful, cultural education
- Pumpkin Walk – Halloween-themed, impressive displays
- Living Traditions Festival – World cultures, performances, food
Tips for Families:
- Arrive early before crowds build
- Bring stroller for young children
- Pack snacks and water
- Check for designated family areas
- Plan rest breaks
- Consider shorter events for young kids
Festival Food Scene
Utah festivals showcase the state’s increasingly diverse culinary scene:
Best Food Festivals:
- Greek Festival: Authentic Greek cuisine
- Living Traditions: Foods from 40+ cultures
- Park City Food & Wine: Gourmet experiences
- State Fair: Classic fair food
Common Festival Foods:
- Food truck variety at most events
- Local craft beer (where applicable)
- International cuisines reflecting Utah’s diversity
- Farm-to-table options at farmers markets
Unique Utah Festival Traditions
Pioneer Day (July 24)
Utah’s state holiday celebrating the arrival of Mormon pioneers in 1847. The Days of ’47 events are uniquely Utah, with the state essentially shutting down for celebration.
Sunday Event Scheduling
Many events avoid Sunday programming, reflecting Utah’s cultural norms. Always check festival schedules carefully.
Outdoor Focus
Utah festivals maximize outdoor settings, taking advantage of beautiful weather and natural venues from mountain resorts to urban parks.
Community Emphasis
Even large festivals maintain a community feel, with local vendors, volunteer staffing, and neighborhood involvement.
Festival Photography Tips
Best Photo Opportunities:
- Festival of Colors: Colorful powder in air
- Sundance: Celebrity sightings on Main Street
- Days of ’47 Parade: Floats, performers, crowds
- Mountain festival settings: Natural backdrops
- Sunset at outdoor concerts: Dramatic lighting
Tips:
- Arrive early for good positioning
- Respect performers and attendees
- Check festival photo policies
- Bring backup batteries and memory cards
- Protect equipment from powder/weather
Volunteering at Festivals
Many Utah festivals rely on volunteers:
Benefits:
- Free or discounted admission
- Behind-scenes access
- Meeting new people
- Supporting community
Popular Volunteer Opportunities:
- Sundance Film Festival
- Utah Arts Festival
- Utah Shakespeare Festival
- Various running races
How to Volunteer:
- Check festival websites for volunteer pages
- Sign up early (popular events fill fast)
- Commit to required shifts
- Attend training sessions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need tickets in advance for Utah festivals? A: For major events (Sundance, large concerts, theater), yes. Many community festivals are free or sell tickets at the door.
Q: Are Utah festivals family-friendly? A: Most are very family-friendly. Even events with alcohol focus maintain appropriate atmosphere.
Q: What’s the weather like during outdoor festivals? A: Variable. Summer events can be hot (use sun protection). Mountain events can be cool. Afternoon thunderstorms possible July-August.
Q: Can I bring my dog to festivals? A: Policies vary widely. Check specific event websites. Service animals always allowed.
Q: Is alcohol available at Utah festivals? A: Some festivals have beer gardens or wine tasting. Utah’s liquor laws mean not all events serve alcohol.
Q: How crowded do festivals get? A: Major events like Sundance, Arts Festival, Days of ’47 draw huge crowds. Smaller regional events less crowded.
Q: Where can I find complete festival calendars? A: Visit Utah, Salt Lake City tourism sites, and individual festival websites maintain updated calendars.
Insider Tips
- Follow festivals on social media for last-minute updates and surprise announcements
- Purchase multi-day or season passes when available for better value
- Explore beyond headline events – Utah has hundreds of smaller, authentic festivals
- Check weather forecasts and dress in layers
- Support local vendors – many festivals showcase Utah businesses
- Arrive early for popular events to secure good parking and viewing spots
- Stay for closing acts – crowds thin out, offering better experiences
- Combine festivals with outdoor activities for the complete Utah experience
Monthly Festival Quick Reference
January: Sundance Film Festival, winter skiing events February: Winter sports competitions, Valentine’s events March: Festival of Colors (Holi), St. Patrick’s Day Parade April: Spring festivals beginning, Jeep Safari (Moab) May: Living Traditions, Greek Festival, Moab Arts Festival June: Utah Arts Festival, marathon races, Shakespeare Festival begins July: Days of ’47, Twilight Concerts, Park City Food & Wine, outdoor concert series August: State Fair begins, multiple art festivals, end-of-summer events September: Oktoberfest, Greek Festival, fall festivals begin October: Fall marathon races, Halloween events, harvest celebrations November: Holiday markets begin, cultural heritage celebrations December: Holiday lights, shopping events, New Year’s preparations
Conclusion
Utah’s festival scene offers something for everyone, reflecting the state’s unique culture, natural beauty, and growing diversity. From world-famous events that attract international visitors to charming small-town celebrations, Utah’s festivals provide entertainment, cultural education, and community connection throughout the year.
Whether you’re planning a trip specifically for Sundance, stumbling upon a local harvest festival during a national park visit, or exploring Salt Lake City’s summer concert scene, Utah’s events calendar rewards both planning and spontaneity. The combination of stunning settings, welcoming communities, and diverse offerings makes Utah festival-going a memorable experience.
So check the calendar, pack your sunscreen and layers, and discover Utah’s vibrant festival culture. From throwing colored powder in Spanish Fork to watching independent films in Park City, from dancing at outdoor concerts to celebrating pioneer heritage, Utah’s festivals offer unforgettable experiences against a backdrop of America’s most spectacular scenery.
See you at the festival!