Days of ’47 Parade Route and Essential Information
The Days of ’47 Parade is a cherished tradition, recognized as one of the oldest parades in the United States. If you’re planning to attend or participate in the 2025 event, understanding the Pioneer Day Parade Route is essential. Here’s your comprehensive guide to ensure you have all the details for this spectacular celebration.
When to Watch the Parade
Mark your calendars! The Days of ’47 Parade will take place on:
Thursday, July 24th, 2025, starting at 9:00 a.m.
This date commemorates the arrival of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, making it a significant day of historical celebration.
Where is the Pioneer Day Parade Route?
The pioneer day parade route winds through the heart of Salt Lake City, offering numerous vantage points for spectators. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the route:
The parade commences at the intersection of South Temple and State Street. From there, it proceeds:
- East on South Temple to 200 East.
- South on 200 East to 900 South.
- East on 900 South to 600 East.
To visualize the pioneer day parade route, refer to the map below:
Click the map for a detailed, enlarged view of the Pioneer Day Parade Route (PDF opens in new tab).
For participants and those needing to find specific entry points or lineup locations, the lineup map provides further clarity:
Click to enlarge the Parade Lineup Map for detailed entry and staging information (PDF opens in new tab).
The Days of ’47 Parade is proudly presented and televised by KSL 5, ensuring that even those who cannot attend in person can still enjoy the festivities.
Pioneer Day Parade Route Road Closures
To accommodate the parade and ensure safety, several road closures will be in effect along and around the pioneer day parade route. Be sure to plan your travel accordingly and allow for extra time to navigate the area. Specific details regarding road closure times and affected streets will be announced closer to the event date. Keep an eye on official updates for the most accurate information to help you navigate around the pioneer day parade route.
Road closures typically impact streets along and near the Pioneer Day Parade Route to ensure safety and facilitate the event.
Spectators line the streets to enjoy the vibrant floats and performances during the annual Days of ’47 Parade.
About the Pioneer Day Parade Event
The Days of ’47 Parade is a vibrant spectacle that draws thousands of spectators each year. The parade features a delightful array of colorful floats, marching bands, equestrian units, entertaining clowns, and various other entries that embody the spirit of Pioneer Day. It’s a morning filled with excitement and visual treats, making it a perfect family outing.
Many dedicated families even camp out along the pioneer day parade route the night before to secure prime viewing spots. This tradition highlights the community’s enthusiasm for this long-standing event.
As you enjoy the festivities along the pioneer day parade route, please remember to be respectful of the local businesses and residents. If you are camping overnight, be mindful of noise levels and ensure you clean up after yourselves. This includes removing all camping gear and disposing of trash properly before leaving the area on the morning of the parade.
Elaborate floats are a hallmark of the Days of ’47 Parade, showcasing creativity and historical themes.
Participating in the Pioneer Day Parade: Entry Instructions
Interested in being part of the Days of ’47 Parade? Here’s what you need to know about entry:
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Limited Entry & Application Process: Space in the Days of ’47 Parade is limited. Early submission of your parade application is crucial to increase your chances of approval. All applications must be completed and submitted online. Ensure you provide all required documentation, including a Certificate of Insurance. Float entries also need to include a detailed float design (8.5” x 11” color drawing) uploaded with the application. Pre-approval is necessary for antique vehicles and horse entries.
Key Application Deadlines:
- Religious Floats: February 1st, 2025
- All Other Entries: May 1st, 2025
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Application Review: The Parade Committee reviews applications monthly. All fees are non-refundable. The committee’s decision is final. Applicants will be notified of approval, rejection, or any necessary revisions.
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Parade Standards Compliance: The Parade Committee reserves the right to remove any entry before or during the parade if it fails to meet the established standards.
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Lineup Information: Approximately two weeks before the parade, participants will receive detailed information regarding lineup, assembly, and their assigned position in the pioneer day parade route.
General Standards for Parade Entries
To maintain the integrity and spirit of the Days of ’47 Parade, certain standards apply to all entries:
- Content Restrictions: Entries deemed political, controversial, unlawful, or inconsistent with the parade’s theme or purpose will be rejected. This includes advocacy for political parties, public policy initiatives, sensitive topics like sexuality, religious controversies, and gun rights.
- Participant Release Forms: A signed release form is required for every participant, including drivers, pacers, and walkers, and must be submitted to the Section Leader by July TBD, 2025.
- Appearance Standards: Participants should be neat, clean, modestly dressed, and present a positive image.
- Walking Groups: Walking groups are only permitted as part of a specific float entry.
- Satellite Pieces: Small, coordinated satellite pieces accompanying floats may be allowed with prior written approval.
- Distribution Restrictions: Throwing or distributing items from parade entries is prohibited by Salt Lake City ordinances.
- Vendor Permits: Limited vendor permits are available for distributions or sales away from the pioneer day parade route. Vendor applications are due by TBD, 2025.
- Music and Sound: Limited entries with music or sound are permitted, subject to Parade Committee approval to minimize conflicts. Sound is not allowed with horse entries or antique vehicles. Copyrighted music requires permission, especially from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (contact their Intellectual Property Office at 801.240.3959 for permissions, allow 4-6 weeks).
- Age Restrictions & Costumed Participants: Costumed walkers must be at least 14 years old. No one under 8 may ride on an entry. Costumed walkers (max 20 per float, with approval) must walk alongside, not in front or behind, the float.
- Hydration: Participants must ensure they have sufficient water due to the parade route length and July heat.
- Noise Restrictions: No vocal or band practice or support music is allowed before 8:00 a.m. on parade day.
- Parking: There is no designated parking for participants or spectators along the pioneer day parade route or in lineup areas. Parking in these areas may result in towing.
- Insurance: Each entry must have a Certificate of Insurance.
- Trademarked Materials: Use of trademarked items requires written permission from the owner and approval from the Parade Committee’s legal counsel. Original works are preferred.
Online Pioneer Day Parade Application Form
Ready to apply? Click Here for the 2025 Parade Application Entry Form
For application questions or inquiries about section openings, contact Jodene Smith at 801.254.4656 or [email protected].
Bands in the Parade
Bands are invited to participate by the Parade Committee band section leader. Contact the Parade Chair via email for band participation inquiries.
Pioneer Day Parade Entry Fees
Here is a breakdown of entry fees for different categories:
- Float – Business ($325)
- Float – Civic ($225)
- Float – Government ($225)
- Float – Religious (Free)
- Horse – Single ($125)
- Horse – Commercial ($275)
- Horse – Riding Group ($125)
- Horse – Wagon/Carriage ($125)
- Musical – Business ($150)
- Musical – Civic/Club ($150)
- Antique Vehicle – Non-Commercial (Free)
- Antique Vehicle – Commercial ($325)
- Military – Non-Commercial (Free)
Don’t miss the Float Preview Party at South Towne Expo Center on July 21st and 22nd! Click here to learn more.
For additional route information, you can also view prior years’ maps:
Contact Information
For further Pioneer Day Parade information, contact Parade Chair Jodene Smith:
Phone/Fax: 801.254.4656
Email: [email protected]
For ADA accommodations, please call 801-254-4656.
Pioneer Day Parade Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Sustaining Sponsors
Enjoy the 2025 Days of ’47 Parade and experience this historic celebration along the pioneer day parade route!