2023 Summer Guide Arts & Cultural Festivals Calendar
Plan your summer weekends with a full list of food, art, entertainment and education
By City Weekly Staff
The past couple of relatively mild spring weeks, arriving after the endless winter of 2022-2023, have felt almost like a cruel tease. We all kept waiting for yet another blizzard, no matter how improbable it was as the calendar crept into May; being paralyzed by meteorological mayhem had just become par for the course.
Ah, but now it finally feels safe to acknowledge: Summer is here. All those things we dreamed of doing while shoveling driveways, or stuck in crawling traffic, or cleaning our salty undercarriages? They're now available to us. And we should appreciate the chance to do every last one of them.
City Weekly's annual Summer Guide offers you a chance to plan your seasonal calendar of outings and entertainments. Which arts and cultural festivals will you experience? Do you have a favorite band coming to town for a summer concert in one of our glorious venues? Are there nearby places you want to check out for great outdoor activities, or farmers' markets? Which of our City Weekly-sponsored events will you join us for? Maybe you even want to try something brand-new, like foraging for mushrooms in our moisture-soaked mountains. All of this and more awaits you.
So seize the opportunities presented to you by a Utah summer, and don't be left regretting the things you didn't do. Those memories will be all the sweeter once the first snowflake drops in the fall.
Scott Renshaw
Arts & Entertainment editor
Summer Arts & Cultural Festivals Calendar
Plan your summer weekends with a full list of food, art, entertainment and education.
By Scott Renshaw & Erin Moore
MAY
Living Traditions Festival: In addition to the annual excitement of food, dancing and music that Living Traditions Festival offers to Utahns, this year, attendees can explore panels and workshops to learn more about how to actively engage with the diversity in our state. Learn—for one example—about the importance of passing down tradition, then head to a lesson on making Mexican paper flowers. May 19-21, Washington Square & Library Square, 200 E. 400 South, SLC,
saltlakearts.org/
livingtraditionspresents/festival
Festival of the Americas: Learn more about and engage with Native American culture, music, art and dancing, plus much more at this festival that also raises money for Native American scholarships in Utah. At this Southwestern fest in the St. George area, you'll not only get acquainted with Paiute royalty, but with youth performances on flute and drums, plus jazz from the D'DAT Jazz Trio. May 19-21, Kayenta Art Village & Center for the Arts, 881 Coyote Gulch Court, Ivins,
kayentaarts.com
Queer Spectra Arts Festival: Learn more about what forms queer artistic expression can take in an arts-focused space that highlights creators from different backgrounds and cultures within the queer realm. May 20-21, Publik Space, 975 S. West Temple, SLC,
queerspectra.com
Orem Chinese Food & Cultural Fair: Treat yourself to a day of all-you-can-eat foods from the vastness that is Chinese culture, plus entertainment and activities that also plug into Chinese traditions. And don't forget to stick around for an iconic dragon dance!
May 27, City Center Park, 300 E. Center St., Orem,
eventbrite.com/e/orem-chinese-food-cultural-fair-tickets-546985477287
JUNE
Utah Pride Festival: This year's theme of "Unapologetic" feels particularly fitting in Utah's climate of legislative and individual actions meant to make LGBTQIA+ people feel denigrated and less-than. Events for the four-day Utah "Pr!de" festival begin Thursday, June 1, with the Utah Pr!de Live party at the Hilton Salt Lake City Center, followed by the Friday, June 2, March & Rally to the State Capitol and opening concert including Icona Pop, Trixie Mattel and Anabel Englund. Festival events on June 3-4 take place at the City & County Building, 450 S. 300 East, SLC, with the traditional parade on Sunday morning June 4 at 10 a.m. Visit the website for tickets and information. June 1-4, various SLC locations,
utahpride.org
Utah Asian Festival: The 46th annual installment of an event that traditionally hosts around 20,000 visitors returns to the Utah State Fairpark for a celebration of all the diverse cultures that make up Utah's Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Events include music and dance, martial arts exhibitions, and a wide range of food options, plus vendors selling traditional crafts and merchandise. Download a free festival ticket that includes Trax transportation to and from the event. June 3, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Utah State Fairpark, 155 N. 1000 West, SLC,
utahasianfestival.org
Ogden Arts Festival: Ogden's own wonderful regional event showcases visual artists, plus plenty of live music performances, festival buskers and other entertainment. You can even sign up for the Plein Air Quick Draw competition taking place on the first day of the festival. June 10-11, Union Station, 2501 Wall Ave., Ogden,
ogdenartsfestival.com
Utah Shakespeare Festival: For more than 50 years, Cedar City has hosted a summer season of Shakespeare, other classic plays and new works. Headlining the season are Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Timon of Athens, plus A Raisin in the Sun, Jane Austen's Emma: The Musical and The Play That Goes Wrong. Play seminars and orientations help supplement the shows themselves, creating a full theatrical experience. June 21 – Oct. 7, various Cedar City venues,
bard.org
Utah Arts Festival: After many years as a four-day event, the state's biggest showcase of local, regional and national artists has consolidated into three packed days. In addition to the festival marketplace of visual artist booths, UAF features music headliners, dance and other performing arts, spoken word, the Fear No Film short film festival and plenty of food from some of the state's most popular vendors. June 23-25, Library Square, 200 E. 400 South, SLC, uaf.org
Also in June: Holi Festival of Colors (June 3, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Krishna Temple, 965 E. 3370 South, SLC, festivalofcolorsusa.com); Utah Scottish Festival & Highland Games (June 16-18, Utah State Fairpark, 155 N. 1000 West, SLC, utahscots.org); Juneteenth Freedom Day (June 17-18, Ogden Amphitheater, 343 E. 25th St., Ogden, facebook.com/juneteenthutah)
JULY
Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre: There are plenty of good reasons to spend a summer weekend hanging around in Logan, but one of the best is the annual showcase of some of the theater world's greatest combinations of song and story. The 2023 season—again under the leadership of founder/frequent leading man Michael Ballam—includes Oliver!, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and Wagner's Lohengrin, plus the unique combo of the Aida interpretations from both Verdi and Tim Rice & Elton John. Plus special one-night-only events, including the annual vocal competition. July 5–Aug. 5, various venues, Logan,
utahfestival.org
Utah Foster Care Chalk Art Festival: After a long tradition of showcasing amazing chalk artists to support the work of Utah Foster Care, this event makes a move to Thanksgiving Point's Electric Park. Work on the original pieces begins Friday, with judging and awards ceremony on Saturday. Visitors can also get a chance to learn a little about the process with beginner and amateur chalk-art classes. July 20–22, Thanksgiving Point Electric Park, 3003 N. Thanksgiving Way, Lehi,
utahfostercare.org
Native American Celebration in the Park: As an annual counterpoint to the festivities celebrating white settlers arriving in the Salt Lake Valley, this celebration of local and regional First Nations culture offers a great opportunity to experience traditional dance and music, with Farmington, New Mexico-based Blue Medicine Well as 2023's official host drum group. Authentic food and other entertainment is usually on the docket as well, along with a closing fireworks show.
July 24, Liberty Park, 600 E. 1100 South, SLC,
facebook.com/nacippowwow
Also in July: Days of '47 (July 14–24, various venues, SLC, daysof47.com); MegaPeruvian Festival (July 28–29, Library Square, 200 E. 400 South, SLC,
facebook.com/fiestas.delperu)
AUGUST
Springville World Folkfest: There's no excuse to not make it to this family friendly, five-night extravaganza of folk dance. Get on your feet for the Aug. 1 all-ages community street dance at the Springville Museum of Art (126 E. 400 South, Springville). Or, soak up folk arts from 10 countries on Aug. 2-5—whether you're there for the dancing, the music, digging into foreign foods or just wandering among novelty booths. Aug. 1-5, Arts Park, 700 S. 1300 East, Springville,
worldfolkfest.org
Park City Kimball Arts Festival: Venture up to Main Street in Park City the first weekend in August to peruse/purchase the work of more than 200 juror-selected artists from 28 states and three countries. Kids can enjoy art, too, at a creation station just for them. Plus, hear music curated by Mountain Town Music and indulge in snacks and beverages to keep you cool. Aug. 4-6, Historic Main Street, Park City,
kimballartsfestival.org
Ogden Pride: Utah Pride parties aren't only in SLC, and they aren't just in June. Head to Ogden for a weekend of late summer, inclusive Pride celebrations, first by way of a youth talent show and dance, then with a fundraiser featuring local musicians, all rounded out by a big festival on the final day. Aug. 4-6, Ogden Amphitheater, 343 E. 25th Street, Ogden,
ogdenpride.org
Indian Utah Food Fair: This fair in the heart of Liberty Park in Salt Lake is more than just a food fair, it's a full-blown taste of Indian culture at-large. Come for the fragrant smells (and corresponding flavors) from the dozens of Indian food trucks and stands, stay for a lovely afternoon or early evening on the lawn watching dancers, singers and other performances. Aug. 5, Liberty Park, 600 E. 900 South, SLC,
indianfoodfairs.com
SEPTEMBER
Timpanogos Storytelling Festival: Among the oldest of human creative forms, the art of storytelling gets its 34th annual showcase, with a lineup of more than a dozen gifted raconteurs from around the country making the trip to Utah, including Alton Chung's tales of Hawai'i and Adam Booth's narratives of Appalachia. For those unable to attend in person, an online component will be available beginning in mid-October. Sept. 7–9, Thanksgiving Point Ashton Gardens and Show Barn, 3900 Garden Drive, Lehi,
timpfest.org
Salt Lake City Greek Festival: The largest Greek festival west of the Mississippi celebrates its 47th year with a well-loved lineup of traditional dance groups, musical entertainment and plenty of delicious food, plus guided tours of the cathedral and Greek Cultural Museum. Sept. 8–10, Holy Trinity Cathedral, 279 S. 300 West, SLC,
saltlakecitygreekfestival.com
FanX Salt Lake Comic & Pop Culture Convention: One of the state's biggest annual events, this celebration of popular culture—comic books, movies, TV, games and more— showcases a variety of panel discussions in addition to its lineup of celebrity guests. The 2023 talent roster so far includes Jonathan Frakes (Star Trek), John Rhys-Davies (Raiders of the Lost Ark, Lord of the Rings), and reunions of cast members from Back to the Future (Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd and Thomas Wilson) and Scream (Neve Campbell, Skeet Ulrich, Matthew Lillard and Jamie Kennedy). Sept. 21–23, Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S. West Temple, SLC,
fanxsaltlake.com
Also in September: Midway Swiss Days (Sept. 1-2, various locations, Midway, midwayswissdays.org); Brazilian Festival (Sept. 9, University Place, 575 E. University Parkway, Orem, utahbrazilianfestival.com)
Party with City Weekly
A list of our own special summer events
By Scott Renshaw
We don't just report on summer festivals—we host them, too. Join us for some of our own special events, every month of the summer.
Moab Slick Rock Beer Festival
May 20, 11-8 p.m.
Proper Brewing (1393 N. Hwy 191, Moab, cwstore.cityweekly.net/EventMicroSite/12240)
Fifteen local, regional and national breweries join us for this inaugural event. Popular Moab-based band Stonefed joins as the music headliners. Similar to our Utah Beer Festival format, beers can be sampled in 5-ounce souvenir mugs.
12th annual City Weekly Pride Pageant
June 1, 8 p.m.
Metro Music Hall (615 W. 100 South, SLC, cwstore.cityweekly.net/EventMicroSite/12279)
Queens, kings and all drag things. The Pride Pageant returns to its home venue at Metro Music Hall, produced by JRC events and hosted by the fabulous Sequoia. This year will feature a record eight contestants, five judges from the local queer scene and post-show entertainment.
4th annual Utah Cann
July 15, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Dreamscapes, The Shops at South Town
(10450 S. State, No. 2200, Sandy, utahcann.com)
Our revamped one-day Utah Cann event where art, music and cannabis culture collide. As Utah's medical market starts to mature in its fourth year, Utah Cann has been there all along the way helping to bring education and social acceptance to the community.
13th annual Utah Beer Festival
Aug. 19–20, 2- 8 p.m.
Granary Live (742 S. 500 West, SLC, utahbeerfestival.com)
Our showcase for Utah's beer-loving community finds a new home in the heart of the Granary District. With an expanded footprint while still within the Salt Lake City core, you can expect more beers and more entertainment from this year's festival.
Songs of the Summer
Big names at big venues highlight a summer of terrific concert options.
By Sophie Caliguri & Lee Zimmerman
Come one, come all, and gather round in anticipation: the City Weekly music staff have lassoed and rounded up our top 13 large-scale music shows to watch this summer. From electronic dance to heavy metal to In Da Club, we guarantee that there is something to be found for every Utah music fan in our sprawling, multifarious, hard rocking and hotter-than-July list. Dip your toes in or take the plunge; say goodbye to your pre-imagined and so-called "dog days of summer" and instead say hello to the merriest of musical months.
JUNE
The Cure @ Vivint Arena
One of the most influential British bands of the early 1980s, The Cure successfully fused the sound of pop and punk with a dark demeanor that helped galvanize the popularity of Goth early on. Founder and frontman Robert Smith remains the only constant from the early incarnation, but the vision remains intact courtesy of Smith's iconic look and stand-out songs like "Boys Don't Cry," "Friday I'm In Love," "Lovesong" and "Pictures of You." Consider it either a retro revival or nuanced nostalgia.
June 4, 8 p.m., tickets start at $40, 301 S. Temple, SLC,
vivintarena.com
Garbage & Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds @ Usana Amphitheatre
It's always been hard to put an exact label on Garbage. Alternately described as post-grunge, trip-hop, alt-rock and electro pop, the band takes its cue from the image and intrigue of front woman Shirley Manson, an iconoclast all on her own. Likewise, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds are defined by the man at its helm, best known as one of the two prickly individuals who helped Oasis establish their dedicated devotion to the ongoing influence of classic British rock. Paired together, this ought to be a stand-out show.
June 13, 7 p.m., $49.50-$249, 5150 Upper Ridge Road, West Valley City,
concerts.livenation.com
Get Funky Festival @ The Great Saltair
Just this once, we're willing to risk the tired cliche of "the name says it all!" for the Get Funky Festival, Salt Lake City's premier summer destination for house and EDM aficionados. With a lineup featuring lionized headlining DJs such as Chris Lake, Dom Dolla, Walker & Royce and Sidepiece, it would be in your best interest to A. purchase tickets immediately and B. express ship a few pairs of Dr. Scholl's orthopedic inserts and a CamelBak in preparation for these two impending boogie nights.
June 23-24, 18+, $50-150, 12408 W. Saltair Drive, Magna,
getfunkyfestival.com
JULY
Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Too $hort, & More @ Usana Amphitheatre
Rap giants Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Too $hort and more have joined forces to embark on their High School Reunion tour. Finally, it's safe to say this is one reunion you will ecstatically want to show up for; it's completely free of linoleum gymnasiums and excruciating small talk. Instead, prepare yourself to relish three acts, back-to-back, that brought us such masterpieces, innuendos and puns as Doggystyle, Rolling Papers and Life Is..., respectively. And, who knows—now that at least one of them is friends with Martha Stewart, they might have gotten crafty and cooked up something brand-new to delight old fans.
Tuesday, July 11, 6 p.m., all ages, $35-249, 5150 Upper Ridge Road, West Valley City,
livenation.com
Utah Blues Festival @ Gallivan Center
How better to escape the blues than by embracing those of a musical variety? The seventh annual Utah Blues Festival, taking place over two days in the heart of our city, brings out the best of that time-honored tradition courtesy of performances by such esteemed artists as Mitch Woods, Ruthie Foster, Danielle Nicole, and Sugaray Rayford, with free workshops and various vendors to boot.
July 16, 5-10 p.m., and June 17, noon-10 p.m., weekend passes start at $100, single-day tickets start at $50 and $60, 239 S. Main, SLC,
utahbluesfest.org
50 Cent @ The Maverik Center
Go shawty, aka Interscope Records studio album Get Rich or Die Tryin'! It's your birthday! To commemorate 20 years of his magnum opus, 50 Cent will be partying like it's his birthday, rolling out a slew of dates for his Final Lap tour with opener Busta Rhymes—and the kick-off date location is none other than our very own Salt Lake City. With time-honored tracks such as "In Da Club," "P.I.M.P.," "Candy Shop," and "U Not Like Me," under his belt and the ability to do bar-hanging sit-ups, this promises to be an illustrious evening.
July 21, 7 p.m., all ages, $39.50-$249.50, 3200 S. Decker Lake Drive, West Valley City,
maverikcenter.com
AUGUST
Smashing Pumpkins & Stone Temple Pilots
@ Usana Amphitheatre
Nostalgia buffs ought to delight in this double bill that finds two of the 1990s' most adventurous ensembles sharing the stage. The loss of Scott Weiland notwithstanding, the Pilots still soar high, courtesy of their self-titled 2018 comeback album and their recent effort, Perdida. For their part, Smashing Pumpkins have also managed to persevere thanks to their current opus Atum, a three-part effort that brings their ambitions back to the fore. Pumpkins personnel include erstwhile leader Billy Corgan, drummer Jimmy Chamberlin and guitarist James Iha, ensuring complete credibility.
Aug. 1, 6:30 p.m., $39.50-$659.50,
5150 Upper Ridge Road, West Valley City,
livenation.com
Foo Fighters @ Usana Amphitheatre
Despite any curiosity regarding Foo Fighters' ability to carry on in the wake of drummer Taylor Hawkins' unexpected passing, the band's ability to rock relentlessly is clearly not in question. Remaining members—singer/guitarist Dan Grohl, guitarists Pat Smear and Chris Shift, bassist Nate Mendel and keyboardist and former Wallflower Rami Jaffee—have a new album readied for release, aptly titled But Here We Are, further proof they're prone to persevere. Expect the Foo Fighters to come out swinging.
Aug. 8, 7:30 p.m., $139-$140, 5150 Upper Ridge Road, West Valley City,
livenation.com
The Australian Pink Floyd Show Darkside 50 Tour @ Sandy Amphitheatre
Given the antagonism that exists between Roger Waters and David Gilmour—as well as the premature passing of keyboardist Richard Wright and the band's founder Syd Barrettt—any opportunity to witness the real deal has long since passed. That said, the Australian Pink Floyd Show is widely accredited as the next best thing, a faithful reproduction of Floyd's remarkable flights of fantasy given the added benefit of a brilliant light show and, of course, a spectacular sound system.
Aug. 9, 7 p.m., $49-$79, 1300 E. 9400 South, Sandy,
sandyamp.com
Boz Scaggs @ Red Butte Garden
Originally a member of Steve Miller's nascent blues band, Boz Scaggs went on to enjoy a brilliant solo career, one that marked him as a classic crooner capable of turning out radio hits that appealed to both young and old. Even now, songs such as "Lowdown," "Lido Shuffle: and "Look What You've Done To Me" remain indelibly impressed in the annals of popular music. Scaggs is still brilliant, and this upcoming performance will inevitably evoke a load of musical memories.
Aug. 15, 7:30 p.m., garden members: $55/public: $60, 300 Wakara Way, SLC,
redbuttegarden.org/concerts
Mind the Gap Fest @ The Gateway
In its first rendition this year, the Mind the Gap Fest aims to showcase both local and national acts, elevate conversations surrounding the stark gender inequities unique to Utah and (in partnership with SLCC) raise money for a scholarship fund directed toward underrepresented individuals who are pursuing a career in the music industry and/or entertainment industry. With pastel popstar Beach Bunny headlining and joined by punk outfit Destroy Boys, R&B artist Orion Sun, and indie duo Sales among many more (!), promoting a good cause never felt so damned cool.
Aug. 26, 11 a.m., $59.50-$150, all ages, 400 W. 200 South, SLC,
mindthegapfest.com
Pantera @ Usana Amphitheatre
Texas-based '90s heavy metal band Pantera—known widely and affectionately as "Cowboys From Hell" after their 1990 release of the same name—are bringing their hell-bent, deeply dark vocals, weighted bass, propulsive drum lines and so-famous-as-to-be-almost-fictional guitar solos (best demonstrated on the imitable although frequently imitated track "Floods") to Utah during the late summer haze of sultry August. This tour marks the debut of the impatiently awaited and hallowed lineup featuring founders Philip Anselmo and Rex Brown, along with Charlie Benae (Anthrax), and Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society).
Aug. 29, 7 p.m., $29-199, all ages, 5150 Upper Ridge Road, West Valley City,
livenation.com
Twilight concerts @ Gallivan Center and Ogden Amphitheater
With such a seductive lineup at SLC's Gallivan Center and the Ogden Amphitheater, this summer's Twilight shows will sell out quickly. It would be in your best interest to not "sleep on" (as the kids say) such artists as Trampled by Turtles, Soccer Mommy, Rina Sawayama, Sylvan Esso, The Flaming Lips, Phantogram, Noah Cyrus and Royksopp—all of which (as of press time) have some tickets available.
For dates and prices, visit 24tix.com. Gallivan Center, 239 S. Main, SLC, saltlakearts.org/twilightconcertseries; Ogden Amphitheater, 343 E. 25th St., Ogden, ogden twilight.com
Eat and Be Merry
Catch these farmers markets and food festivals, and help sustain local ag producers.
By Erin Moore
Whether you get your kicks browsing vegetable stalls and betting your friends who can eat from the most food trucks in one afternoon, or whether you're just trying to get a taste of SLC's diverse cultural scene, our city's food markets and festivals have you covered. Not only are those listed below a good time, but you can leave with a full belly and maybe bags filled with locally grown produce.
Downtown Farmers Market
The Downtown Farmers Market is kicking off its 32nd year helping to strengthen and support local farms and culinary operations. On Saturdays in summer and early fall months, you can find fresh local fruits and veggies, grass-fed meat, eggs, dairy, honey, spreads and sauces, baked goods and more. After shopping's done, mosey on over to the center of the market to grab a food-truck breakfast or lunch to eat on the grass.
June 3–Oct. 21, Saturdays, 8 a.m.– 2 p.m., Pioneer Park, 350 S. 300 West, SLC,
slcfarmersmarket.org
West Valley City Farmers Market
A newbie on the scene, the WVC Farmers Market is bringing fresh, locally grown food, products and handmade goods to the west side of the valley, plus a youth program called Power of Produce angled towards helping kids learn about food and give them agency to make their own choices at the market.
June 22–Oct. 5, Thursday nights, Centennial Park, 5405 W. 3100 South, West Valley City,
wvc-ut.gov/1700/Farmers-Market
Utah Farm Bureau Farmers Markets
Utah Farm Bureau owns and operates two farmers markets in Murray Park and South Jordan that sell food only (with select artisans at the South Jordan market only). This means you won't find any craft vendors or musicians at these events—only fresh Utah produce available in season.
Murray: July 28-Oct. 28, Fridays & Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 296 E. Murray Park Way; South Jordan: Aug. 5-Oct. 14, Saturdays only, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., 1600 Towne Center Drive;
utahfarmbureau.org/Food/Farm-Bureau-Farmers-Markets
International Market
Debuting this summer in some of the old barn spaces at the Utah State Fairpark, this market has been pegged as a way to combat food insecurity in west side neighborhoods, which lack nearby food access. While the first season featured dozens of food vendor stalls, there are hopes to add fresh meat and vegetables, farmers-market style, to the mix.
First Saturdays of the month, Utah State Fairpark, 155 N. 1500 West, SLC,
utahstatefair.com/p/international-market
Indian Food Fair
For its fourth year, this family-friendly outdoor fest brings food trucks and restaurant vendors to one place. It's a great place to sample both traditional Indian cuisine and some fusion inventions, too—like dosas from Desilicious, where the classic Indian street food melds with both Szechuan flavor and cheesy delight. While browsing the stalls, local folk and Bollywood performances fill the air from the stage.
Aug. 5, Liberty Park, 600 E. 900 South, SLC,
indianfoodfairs.com
Utah Tacofest
Indulge in all the tacos you could ever want while vendors vie for winning best taco, in several different categories. Past vendors at this cultural celebration include Wimpy & Fritz, Tandoor Tacos, Smoke-A-Billy, Santo Taco, Cluck Truck, Los Molcajetes and so many more.
Aug. 5–6, Utah State Fairpark, 155 S. 1000 West,
utahtacofest.com
SLC VegFest
Fall in love with plant-based cuisine at this annual festival—sample goods from restaurants and makers like Vegan Daddy Meats, Namash Swahili Cuisine, Prime Corn, Old Cuss, Yumz, Sushi Squad, Trolley Wing Co. and so many more. While noshing, browse vegan-friendly prepared goods, apparel and arts 'n' crafts.
Sept. 9, Library Square, 200 E. 400 South, SLC,
slcveg.com
Eat Drink SLC
Eat Drink SLC celebrates our region's local foods and libations, lifting up local restaurateurs, distilleries, breweries and other makers who make our city a special place to eat and drink. Proceeds from their events benefit local nonprofits like Tracy Aviary, SB Dance and Women of the World. If you want to get to know our culinary landscape, add their next fest to your calendar.
Sept. 13-14, various locations,
eatdrinkslc.com
Oktoberfest
Once you've filled your mug to the brim with frothy beer at Snowbird's annual Oktoberfest, get in line inside the big tent to collect a heaping plate of bratwurst, weisswurst, spaetzle, kraut and schnitzel. And don't forget the strudel!
Weekends mid-August to mid-October,
snowbird.com/oktoberfest
Discover Food Festival
A project of the Spice Kitchen Incubator, which helps immigrants start restaurants and other food-centric businesses, Discover Food Festival is a great place to get acquainted with up-and-coming businesses and diverse cuisines in SLC.
Sept. TBD, spicekitchenincubator.org
Radius of Recreation
Where to enjoy Utah's great outdoors when the "getaway" impulse strikes.
By Pete Saltas
In 2020, with a sudden opening in our schedules, our little pod of former jet-setters found ourselves seeking adventure by car.
With no concerts, community events or friends' weddings to attend, it was much easier to plan on-the-fly weekend getaways, one-nighters and quick there-and-back-again trips.
So, we decided to check out our own backyard. Why not? People come from all over to visit Utah, so we might as well remind ourselves what we love about the place.
And even now, post-COVID, with our more robust social and event calendars, our core group still shoots out texts to our "adventure crew" to see who can get away on a whim.
I don't feel like I've even scratched the surface of what Utah has to offer, but here are some of our group's favorite last-minute getaways in what I call the "Radius of Recreation," for those times you can sneak away from your workplace or home desk early on a Friday.
1 to 2 hours away: For a nearby chance for paddle-boarding and overnight camping, take your crew north to Causey Reservoir and Ogden Canyon. With a restriction on motor vehicles, this is a great spot to relax on the water with your paddle buddies. Like most camping locations over the past few years, Ogden Canyon books up quickly, so if you plan on staying overnight, make sure to plan in advance. Drive a little further north for Utah's best beach experience at Bear Lake. I'm mad at myself for waiting until I "couldn't" do anything else to finally see Bear Lake as an adult.
Must Do: While up that way, a stop at the Shooting Star Saloon (7350 E. 200 South, Huntsville, 801-745-2002, shooting-star-saloon.business.site) is a must.
2-3 hours away: In the peak of summer, when you need to get out of the Salt Lake heat—like in 2022, with 15+ days over 100 degrees in July alone—the best bet is to head east to the Uintas. As much as I want to keep our favorite camping area a secret, I feel like the Ashley National Forest should be shared with as many good folks as possible. For a closer retreat, head up Mirror Lake Highway for first-come, first-served camping.
Must Do: Grab a cold one at Defa's Dude Ranch Saloon (16350 N. Country Road 7, Hanna, 435-848-5590).
3-5 hours away: This requires a little more advance planning, as we generally like to check out some of the area's national parks (which have seen record tourist visits), and we'd rather not have to turn around to come back home. I also don't just mean Utah's "Mighty 5," but the other proximal national parks that might as well belong to Utah.
First, closest to Salt Lake City, we have Great Basin National Park in Baker, Nevada. With some first-come, first-served camping and reserved spots available, you'll want to make sure to get on the reservation to make sure you don't have to spend the night in Baker.
Must See: A glacier in Nevada, some of the region's oldest bristlecone pines, and a ranger-led tour of Lehman Caves (5500 NV-488, Baker, 775-234-7331, nps.gov).
Second, if you've experienced Arches and Canyonlands national parks, consider a Four Corners trip by traveling beyond Moab to the dispersed camping near Hovenweep National Monument. With an extended stay, you can also explore the greater Bears Ears region—which our City Weekly writers have written about of late (see QR code)—and you can cross over to the Colorado side of the border to visit Mesa Verde National Park.
For bonus points, take the long way home through Grand Junction to check out Colorado's Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Must Stop: Ray's Tavern (35 S. Broadway, Green River, 435-564-3511). City Weekly's Best of Utah awarded this watering hole the "Best Rural Bar."
Third, with a nod to Utah's state parks, we were able to snag a last-minute reserved spot at Goblin Valley State Park. This was a great one-night camping trip.
Ticking off the obvious box of trekking around Goblin Valley 1 (closest to the parking lot), spend some time exploring Valleys 2 and 3—away from the screaming kids. Also, check out the Goblin's Lair trail. We may or may not have hot-boxed a cave (hot-caved?) there with some local, green medicinal products.
Must Do: Check out Goblin Valley's newest extension of the Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon. For our group, it was our first experience in a slot canyon, and not an overly stressful one, either.
For more of my personal favorite places to explore, reach out to pete@cityweekly.et.
Soak Up the Summer Fun(gi)
Tips for mushroom foraging that will make your experience safe, fun and tasty.
By Erin Moore
If you already love hiking, biking and going out camping in Utah's outdoors, and want a new way to engage with nature this summer, may we recommend you look into a rapidly growing movement in Utah—what foraging enthusiasts call the fungal awakening. Yes, mushroom foraging is a thing in Utah, despite how dry our climate is. The selection of wild, prized, edible mushrooms in Utah isn't as abundant as in wetter states better known for their foraging communities, but you can find treasures if you put in some time and research. Here are some tips on finding more than just views when you head outside this summer.
What, When, Where, How: What kinds of mushrooms can one even expect to find if you start looking in Utah? Well, Utah is home to many prized edibles, including morels, chanterelles, oysters and porcini—the latter of which was just made our official state mushroom in the last legislative session. They all grow at different times and places in any given location in the world where they grow, so don't immediately jump on Google with a "how to find morels"—because you might actually get advice on how to find them in, say, Minnesota.
Mushrooms, the fruiting body of fungi, have differing relationships to water, trees, plantlife and wildlife around them; even elevation may impact where and when they fruit. For example, some types of Utah morels fruit in the early spring from May to April, near streams on dappled slopes full of pine duff. Chanterelles favor disused trails or forest maintenance trails that are rocky and populated by lodgepole pines; oysters grow on cottonwoods or elms, and especially so if the tree is dying or recently dead.
Mushrooms also grow at different elevations, so if you favor high mountain camping in the high summer, certain mushrooms will await you. If you'd rather stay close to your favorite bench trails or parks, though, look when temps are milder in the early spring and late fall. Each of those seasons, too, have their own offerings.
And remember to keep moisture and temperature in mind—after it rains, mushrooms are abundant, but as it gets hotter, the higher up you'll need to go to find mushrooms in greater quantities.
Get Yourself a Guide: While it can be tempting to look online, fungi are one of the least studied kingdoms of life on earth, and their growing patterns and specificities change according to where you are. That's why it's good to buy a field guide—like Mushrooms of the Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountain Mushrooms by Habitat—which you can take with you on a foray to help identify what you find. This is especially important if you plan to eat any fungi. The internet has many answers, and websites like mushroomexpert.com are very informative and expansive in their offerings, but if you really want to know what you're looking for in our region, it's best to buy a locally specific guide.
Find a Good Society: Once you have all that down, you could consider joining a group like the Mushroom Society of Utah, where you'll meet like-minded folks who want to satiate their curiosity not only out in the wild, but at the educational talks and potlucks they host for members. It's a great place to meet people more experienced than yourself, as well as fellow newbies. They also host forays throughout the warm season, where knowledgeable guides make themselves (and their mushroom spots) available to you for questions and tips.
Migrate to the Mushrooms of Utah Facebook Page: This community page is aimed at helping mushroom enthusiasts identify mushrooms and share exciting finds, but I can only recommend it if you follow some rules. Do: Post pictures of the side of a mushroom you find, of the top and the bottom, and maybe even the mushroom cut in half. Don't: Post a blurry photo of the top of the mushroom you found in your yard and ask what it could be; you will get scolded by the group. This page is also a very fun and useful place to check in on if you want to see if other people are finding mushrooms in your area, or where the elusive fungi are if your favorite local trail isn't turning anything up.
Rules for Safety: If you buy any of the books mentioned above, or simply do enough research online, you will quickly come to realize that the prized edibles in Utah are hard to mistake for other mushrooms that you shouldn't eat. That being said, if you want to be safe, you have to do your reading.
Buy a field guide and study it every time you find a mushroom, and you'll soon learn why many of the the mushrooms that may be growing on an old tree stump in plump, flat layers (like oysters do) are absolutely safe (and delicious) to eat.
And while many may think the most important safety advice about foraging for mushrooms would involve the mushrooms themselves, you should also just carry your wilderness smarts with you when foraging. Carry bear or pepper spray if you're foraging in the high Uintas and going anywhere off-trail. Go with a group and, again, if you're somewhere very wild, it's not just smart but can be fun to carry walkie-talkies with you to check in with the locations (and the finds) of your groupmates.
With all of these tools and pieces of advice under your belt, you should be set to set out into the Utah wilds to seek out some mushrooms. Good luck, forager!
Parks
Utah has five national parks and more than a dozen national monuments, historic sites and recreation areas, all within a day's drive of Salt Lake City.
Arches National Park
5 miles north of Moab, US-191, 435-719-2299
The collection of eroded sandstone formations here is the largest of its kind in the United States. A road winds past many of the arches and many others can be found hiking.
Bryce Canyon National Park
270 miles south of SLC, off Utah SR-12, 435-834-5322
The landscape of Bryce Canyon ranges from fantastical to eerie. Unique geology conditions result in columns and spires that must be seen.
Canyonlands National Park
20 miles south of Moab, SR-313, 435-719-2313
Chopped into three distinct sections by the Colorado and Green rivers, Canyonlands is best experienced off-road or on the rivers. Island in the Sky offers amazing vistas. Only sturdy hikers and bikers should try The Maze.
Capitol Reef National Park
230 miles south of SLC, SR-24, 435-425-3791
Named for the white sandstone that resembles the buildings in Washington D.C., Capitol Reef is dominated by colorful formations and cliffs.
Zion National Park
325 miles south of SLC, Springdale, SR-9, 435-772-3256
From the wide-mouth canyon near Springdale to the cliff-lined, bottleneck canyons of the Narrows, Zion impresses from start to finish, offering visible evidence of six distinct geological epochs.
Bears Ears National Monument 356 miles from SLC; highways 191, 211, 95, 261 and 163 all provide access; 435-587-1500 Utah's youngest national monument gets its name from two buttes that rise from the horizon. Located in San Juan County, visitors can see Native American ruins and cave drawings and enjoy hiking, river rafting and rock climbing.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
25 miles east of Cedar City, SR-14 to SR-148, 435-986-7120
Cedar Breaks is home to "painted cliffs" and colorful spires with nearby forests that are home to some of the world's only Bristlecone pine trees, the oldest living things.
Dinosaur National Monument
20 miles east of Vernal, US-40 to SR-149, 435-781-7700
In addition to the world's largest quarry of Jurassic fossils anywhere, Dinosaur offers fantastic rafting on the Green and Yampa rivers.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
45 miles north of Vernal, off US-191 or via SR-43, 435-784-3445
The park, known for some of the best trout fishing in the state, extends into Wyoming and covers over 200,000 acres.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Via US-89, dam 2 miles north of Page, Arizona, 928-608-6200
Situated on the Utah-Arizona border, Lake Powell is a favorite vacation spot for myriad water sports.
Golden Spike National Monument
32 miles west of Brigham City via SR-13 & SR-83, 435-471-2209
Commemorated here is the historic occasion of May 10, 1869, when the eastern and western rail lines met and the country was connected coast-to-coast.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
300 miles south of Salt Lake via I-15, SR-24 & SR-12, 435-644-1200
Grand Staircase is more than 1.8 million acres of fabulous desert topography and geology.
Hovenweep National Monument
Around 40 miles from either Blanding or Bluff, Utah, 970-562-4282
Located in the heart of the Four Corners, here you'll find dwellings of ancestral Puebloans, including multistory towers perched on canyon rims.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
380 miles south of SLC via US-163, 435-727-5870
To capture iconic views of the American West, you can drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop, hike the Wildcat Trail and visit Forrest Gump Point. Or, book a tour to see more of Monument Valley.
Natural Bridges National Monument
East of Lake Powell, US-191, SR-95 to SR-275, 435-692-1234
Centered around three natural bridges cut by Colorado River tributaries, Natural Bridges offers great hiking and camping.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Northeast of Page, Arizona, via Lake Powell, 928-608-6200
Most accessible by boat from Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge boasts the world's highest free-standing natural bridge.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
American Fork Canyon via I-15 exit 284, SR-92, 801-756-5239
In close proximity to Salt Lake City, the cave is reached via a 1.5 mile hike and includes three separate limestone caverns.
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
801-999-2103, fs.usda.gov/uwcnf
For information regarding fishing, camping, hiking or picnicking in the mountains surrounding Salt Lake City, contact the National Forest Service.
Antelope Island State Park
4528 W. 1700 South, Syracuse, 801-773-2941
The largest island in the Great Salt Lake can be accessed via a seven-mile causeway from the town of Syracuse, about 40 miles north of Salt Lake. Home to a variety of wildlife, including free-roaming bison, the Island features sandy beaches and a boat marina.
East Canyon State Park
5535 S. SR-66, Morgan, 801-829-6866
About 28 miles northeast of Salt Lake City is a 608-acre reservoir and forest area, rich in pioneer history. A popular spot for boating, fishing and camping.
Great Salt Lake State Park
From SLC via I-80 West exit 104, 801-828-0787
Don't let the smell or the bugs stop you from visiting this must-see salt water lake. The Great Salt Lake extends over 2,000 square miles and is saltier than the ocean. The park features a marina and picnic areas.
Jordanelle State Park
From SLC via I-80 East to US-40, 435-649-9540
Located near Heber City just 40 miles from Salt Lake City, nestled among mountains, is the Jordanelle Reservoir providing fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming and paddle-boarding. There are also hiking trails and campgrounds for RVs and tent camping.
This Is the Place Heritage Park
2601 Sunnyside Ave., SLC, 801-582-1847
Site of the Mormon pioneers' entry into the Salt Lake Valley, the park features Old Deseret Village, a recreation of pioneer settlements, as well as the This Is the Place monument, the Brigham Young Forest Farmhouse and picnic areas.
Utah Lake State Park
Exit 265B from I-15 to 4400 W. Center St. Provo, 801-375-0731
The Provo River empties into Utah Lake, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West. Only 50 miles from SLC, this park offers a campground, boat ramps, marina , modern restrooms plus disc golf and year-round fishing.
Wasatch Mountain State Park
1281 Warm Springs Road, Midway, 435-654-1791
Enjoy camping in the Pine Creek Campground, or choose to play one of four 18-hole golf courses. Explore mountain trails by foot, on bikes or ride ATVs or on horseback.
Pools
Indoor Pools
Cottonwood Heights Rec Ctr
7500 S. 2700 East, Cottonwood Heights, 801-943-3190
Draper Rec Center
657 E. Vestry Road, Draper,
385-468-1995
Fairmont Aquatic Center
1044 E. Sugarmont Drive, SLC,
385-468-1540
Dimple Dell
10670 South 1000 East, Sandy,
385-468-3355
Gene Fullmer Rec Center
8015 S. 2200 West, West Jordan,
385-468-1951
Holladay Lions Rec Center
1661 East Murray-Holladay Road (4800 South), Holladay, 385-468-1700
Kearns Oquirrh Park
5624 S. Cougar Lane, Kearns,
801-966-5555
The Park Center
202 E. Murray Park Ave., Murray,
801-284-4200
Northwest Rec Center
1255 W. Clark Ave., SLC, 385-468-1305
J.L. Sorenson Rec Center
5350 W. Herriman Main St., Herriman, 385-468-1340
South Jordan Aquatic Ctr
10866 S. Redwood Road, South Jordan, 385-468-1603
SLC Sports Complex
645 S. Guardsmen Way, SLC, 385-468-1925
Steiner Aquatic Ctr West
855 W. California Ave., SLC,
385-468-1300
Outdoor Pools
Cottonwood Heights Rec Ctr
7500 S. 2700 East,
Cottonwood Heights, 801-943-3190
Crestwood Swimming Pool
1700 E. Siesta Drive,
Cottonwood Heights, 385-468-1683
Draper Outdoor Pool
657 E. Vestry Road, Draper, 385-468-1995
Kearns Oquirrh Park
5624 S. Cougar Lane, Kearns,
801-966-5555
Liberty Park Pool
650 E. 900 South, SLC, 385-468-1564
Magna Outdoor Pool
3270 S. 8400 West, Magna,
385-468-1826
Murray Aquatic Center
5109 S. Murray Park Ave., Murray,
801-290-4190
Redwood Outdoor Pool
3100 S. Redwood Road,
West Valley City, 385-468-1870
SLC Sports Complex
645 S. Guardsmen Way, SLC,
385-468-1925
South County Pool
12765 S. 1125 West, Riverton,
385-468-1362
Taylorsville Outdoor Pool
4915 S. 2700 West, Taylorsville,
385-468-1740
West Jordan Outdoor Pool
8125 S. 2200 West, West Jordan,
385-468-1941
GOLF
Salt Lake City is a golf adventure in the making. With numerous private and municipal courses located in the city and nearby (see listings below), you’ll find just the terrain and links you’re looking for.
Bonneville Golf Course
954 Connor, SLC, 801-583-9513
Eaglewood Golf Course
1110 E. Eaglewood Drive,
North Salt Lake, 801-299-0088
Fore Lakes Golf Course
1285 W. 4700 South, Taylorsville,
801-266-8621
Forest Dale Golf Course
2375 S. 900 East, SLC, 801-483-5420
Glendale Golf Course
1630 W. 2100 South, SLC,
801-974-2403
Glenmoor Golf Course
9800 S. 4800 West, South Jordan, 801-280-1742
Lakeside Golf Course
1201 N. 1100 West, West Bountiful, 801-295-1019
Meadowbrook Golf Course
4197 S. 1300 West, Taylorsville,
385-468-1500
Mick Riley Golf Course
421 S. Vine, Murray, 385-468-1400
Mountain Dell Golf Course
Parleys Canyon, I-80 Exit 134, SLC, 801-582-3812
Mountain View
Golf Course
2400 W. 8660 South, West Jordan, 385-468-1414
Mulligans Golf & Games
692 W. 10600 South, South Jordan, 801-254-3377
Murray Parkway
Golf Course
6345 S. Murray Parkway Ave., Murray, 801-262-4653
Nibley Park Golf Course
2780 S. 700 East, SLC, 801-483-5418
Old Mill Golf Course
6080 S. Wasatch Blvd., Holladay,
385-468-1440
Riverbend Golf Course
1040 W. 12800 South, Riverton,
385-468-1460
Rose Park Golf Course
1386 N. Redwood Road, SLC,
801-596-5030
South Mountain Golf Course
1247 E. Mike Weir Drive, Draper,
385-468-1480
The Ridge Golf Club
5055 Westridge Blvd., West Valley City, 801-966-4653
Thanksgiving Point Golf Club
3300 Club House Drive, Lehi, 801-768-7400
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