Days of ’47 Utahans celebrate Pioneer Day
In the coming week, several events celebrating Utah’s pioneer heritage will take place across the state, including all-day festivities on July 24.
The Days of ’47, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that was organized to commemorate the arrival of Mormon pioneer leader Brigham Young and his followers to the Salt Lake Valley. In the week before July 24, the activities gain momentum with the Days of ’47 Rodeo and culminate in the annual parade.
A pageant sponsored by the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers was held in April to select this year’s Days of ’47 Royalty; Christine Messick of Bountiful was crowned queen. The competition is open to descendants of pioneers that arrived in Utah between 1847 and 1869. The Royalty attends many of the Days of ’47 festivities, including the rodeo and parade.
The Days of ’47 Rodeo runs from July 19-24 at the Maverick Center in West Valley City. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association consistently votes the Days of ’47 Rodeo as one of the top rodeos in the nation. Each night of the event will have a different theme, such as Family Night and Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night.
The Pioneers of Progress dinner on July 22 recognizes outstanding individuals in the community. Awards are given in seven different categories: Science and Technology Development; Business and Enterprise; Education, Health and Humanitarian Assistance; Historic and Creative Arts; Sportsmanship and Athletics; Legacy Award and President’s Award.
On July 24, all-day festivities include the Deseret News Marathon/10km/5km Fitness Walk, a sunrise service honoring the pioneers at the Tabernacle on Temple Square and the annual parade. The parade begins at 9 a.m. and will be aired on KSL 5.
Almost all events are free and open to the public. For more information about the events, including times and locations, visit www.DaysOf47.com
Schedule
July 19 – 24
Days of ‘47 Rodeo
July 19 and 20
Days of ‘47 Float Preview Party
July 22
Pioneers of Progress Awards and Dinner
July 23 – Brother Brigham’s Ball
July 23 and 24
Pioneer Heritage Festival
July 24
Deseret News Marathon / 10K / 5K Fitness Walk
July 24
Sunrise Service
July 24
The Days of ‘47 KSL 5 Parade