The Pioneer Day Parade in Salt Lake City is a cherished tradition, deeply rooted in the history and culture of Utah. This annual spectacle, a highlight of the Days of ’47 celebrations, draws thousands of spectators to the streets to witness a vibrant display of floats, music, and heritage. As one of the oldest parades in the United States, the Pioneer Day Parade 2024 promises to be another unforgettable event for families and communities alike.
When and Where to Experience the Pioneer Day Parade
Mark your calendars for Thursday, July 24th, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. for the Pioneer Day Parade. The parade will commence its route in downtown Salt Lake City, offering ample viewing opportunities along its path.
The Pioneer Day Parade route begins at the intersection of South Temple and State Street. From there, the procession will move eastward to 200 East, turn south towards 900 South, and finally head east again to 600 East. To better visualize the route and plan your viewing spot, refer to the map provided below:
(Click the map for a larger, downloadable PDF version)
Knowing the lineup order can also enhance your parade experience, especially if you are looking forward to seeing specific entries. The lineup map, also available for download, provides details on the order of participants and their staging areas:
(Click the map for a larger, downloadable PDF version)
What to Expect: A Thrilling Spectacle of Floats, Bands, and More
The Pioneer Day Parade is renowned for its colorful and elaborate floats, each telling a story or celebrating a facet of Utah’s rich pioneer heritage. Beyond the stunning floats, the parade is alive with the sounds of marching bands, the charm of equestrian units, and the playful antics of clowns. This combination creates an atmosphere of joy and excitement that captivates audiences of all ages.
Many families eagerly anticipate the parade each year, often setting up camp along the parade route the night before to secure the best viewing spots. The anticipation builds as the morning approaches, culminating in a spectacular display of community spirit and celebration.
The Pioneer Day Parade is more than just entertainment; it’s a chance to connect with history and appreciate the legacy of the pioneers who shaped Utah. It’s a morning filled with excitement, color, and community spirit that you won’t want to miss.
As you enjoy the festivities, please remember that the parade route passes through residential and business areas. Respect for private property is essential. If you are camping overnight, be mindful of noise levels and ensure you clean up your area completely before leaving, disposing of all trash and camping gear responsibly.
Participating in the Pioneer Day Parade: Entry Instructions
For those interested in being more than just spectators, the Pioneer Day Parade offers opportunities for participation. Entry into the parade is a competitive process due to limited space, so early application is crucial.
Key Entry Information:
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Application Process: All entries must be submitted online through the official application form. Ensure your application is complete with all required paperwork, including a Certificate of Insurance. Float entries also require a separate float design submission (8.5” x 11” artist’s color drawing). Antique vehicles and horse entries need pre-approval.
- Application Deadlines:
- Religious Floats: February 1st, 2025
- All Other Entries: May 1st, 2025
- Application Deadlines:
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Review and Approval: The Parade Committee reviews applications monthly, and decisions are final. Applicants will be notified of approval, rejection, or any necessary modifications.
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Parade Standards: Entries are expected to align with the parade’s theme and purpose, remaining non-political, non-controversial, and lawful. Specific restrictions apply to topics such as political advocacy, sexuality, controversial religious matters, and gun rights.
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Participant Guidelines: All participants, including walkers and drivers, must sign a release form. Participants should maintain a neat and modest appearance, presenting a positive image. Walking groups are only permitted as part of a float entry.
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Safety and Regulations: Throwing or distributing items from parade entries is prohibited. Music and sound require prior approval and must comply with licensing requirements, especially for copyrighted material. Participants under 14 cannot be costumed walkers, and those under 8 cannot ride on entries. Hydration is crucial for all participants due to the July heat and long parade route.
For detailed entry guidelines and to apply, please visit the official parade application form:
Click Here for the 2025 Parade Application Entry Form
For application inquiries, contact Jodene Smith at 801.254.4656 or [email protected].
Recognizing Our Sponsors
The Pioneer Day Parade is made possible through the generous support of various sponsors, including:
- Presented and Televised by: KSL 5
- Platinum Sponsors: (List of Platinum Sponsors – if available)
- Gold Sponsors: (List of Gold Sponsors – if available)
- Silver Sponsors: (List of Silver Sponsors – if available)
- Bronze Sponsors: (List of Bronze Sponsors – if available)
- Sustaining Sponsors: (List of Sustaining Sponsors – if available)
Their contributions help ensure the parade remains a vibrant and free community event.
Contact and Accessibility Information
For further information about the Pioneer Day Parade, please contact the Parade Chair, Jodene Smith, at 801.254.4656 or [email protected].
For ADA accommodation requests, please call 801-254-4656.
The Pioneer Day Parade 2024 (held in 2025) is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Utah’s heritage and enjoy a spectacular community event. We encourage everyone to join us for a memorable day filled with fun, history, and vibrant festivities in Salt Lake City!
