Days of '47 Parade facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Days of '47 Parade |
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Re-enactment of Mormon pioneers in the 1912 Pioneer Days Parade at Liberty Park, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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| Genre | Parade |
| Date(s) | July 24 |
| Frequency | Annually |
| Location(s) | Salt Lake City |
| Coordinates | 40°46′10″N 111°53′28″W / 40.76944°N 111.89111°W |
| Country | United States |
| Inaugurated | July 24, 1849 |
| Website | Official site of The Days of '47 Parade: http://www.daysof47.com/events/days-of-47-parade |
The Days of '47 Parade is a big annual parade in Salt Lake City, Utah. It happens every year on or around July 24th. This day is special because it's Pioneer Day, a state holiday in Utah. The parade lasts about three hours and starts at 9:00 a.m.
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A Look Back: The Parade's Story
On July 24, 1847, a group of people called Mormon pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley. Their leader was Brigham Young. These pioneers were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They had traveled a long way from places like Nauvoo, Illinois, in the eastern United States.
Many pioneers used handcarts or wagons pulled by oxen or horses. They crossed vast plains to reach this desert area. This land later became known as the Utah Territory.
The Days of '47 organization says that these early pioneers showed great courage and faith. Their journey still inspires people today. The parade and other events help everyone remember their hard work and accomplishments. It's a way to celebrate both past and present "pioneers."
The first parade happened on July 24, 1849. This was long before the Days of '47 became an official group. In 1931, the parade became an annual event called "Covered Wagon Days." Since the 1940s, it has been known as the Days of '47 Parade.
Many groups help create the parade. These include local church groups, businesses, and community organizations. They often sponsor colorful floats. In recent years, the parade has welcomed more participants. Other churches now join in to celebrate their own Utah pioneers.
Native Americans march in a special pre-parade. This happens before the main pioneer floats begin. The military is always well represented in the parade. You can also expect to see horses, marching bands, children, and parade queens.
The parade has been canceled a few times. There was no parade between 1932 and 1934 because of the Great Depression. It was also canceled in 1943 due to World War II. In 2020, the parade did not happen because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who Performs at the Parade?
Besides the amazing floats, the parade also features live music. High school marching bands from all over Utah participate. Their performances are often shown on television during the parade broadcast.
Watching the Parade on TV
You can watch the parade on TV. It is broadcast across the Intermountain West region. The local NBC channel, KSL-TV, usually shows the event.
Where Does the Parade Go?
The parade route starts at South Temple and State Street. It then goes east to 200 East. From there, it turns south to 900 South. Finally, it heads east to Liberty Park at 600 East. A fun fair is traditionally held at Liberty Park. It has games and rides for everyone to enjoy.
For many years, the parade started at Temple Square. It would go south on Main Street. Then it turned east at 9th South and continued towards Liberty Park. The parade has always ended at Liberty Park.
Want to Learn More?
- Official site of The Days of '47, Inc.: http://www.daysof47.com
