Salt Lake City Festivals

Independent film lovers and artists alike come together each January for a chilly gathering known as the Sundance Film Festival. Founded by actor Robert Redford in 1981, the now world famous event has showcased some of the most influential movies of the past two and a half decades. The Sundance Foundation, a non-profit organization that caters to the development of new filmmakers, runs the festival and helps provide fellowships to those looking to work in the film industry. Sundance brings in more than 20,000 viewers, including a bevy of celebrities, while screening 120 feature length films and 60 short films. The experience is amazing for any film lover, but be sure to save some extra cash because tickets are far from cheap.

The pride of Utah's Scottish community shines each June at the Highland's Festival, a tribute to heritage and honor. The event is based around the Highland games, which are a series of stone throwing games testing strength in the competitors. The games originated in 11th century Scotland when warriors were choosen in similar competitions to determine who would be the most valuable in war. Today, stone throwing competitions are still held at the festival along with traditional Scottish fare and crafts. Kilts and bagpipes are abundant, in addition to beaming Scottish pride at this unique Utah festival.

For 31 years the Utah Arts Festival, held annually at the end of June, has kept its place as the largest arts festival in Utah. The summer event boasts four days of visual, performing and culinary arts that draw a whopping crowd of over 80,000 people. There is a full children and teen section where young ones are given the tools to express their creative side. The festival awards a stipend each year to a local or national composer to create new music for a symphony or chamber orchestra that performs at the festival. Ranked as one the 50 top arts festivals in the country, the Utah Arts Festival serves as one of the most creative outlets for Salt Lake City and the surrounding area's best creative minds.

Aiming to promote growth and awareness in the Utah community, the Utah Pride Festival consists of a three-day celebration of the gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual community. For 24 years, volunteers, staff and community organizers have worked to put on the event that often features famous headliners on the music stage. Food, music, crafts and various activities are put on thought the weekend and all lead up to the free Pride Parade on Sunday morning. The Utah Pride Festival really is a celebration for everyone and a wonderful way to support awareness and acceptance in the greater Salt Lake City community.

Get ready for 11 days of carnival bliss each September at Utah's State Fair. As one of the oldest fairs in the country, the Utah Stet Fair focuses on promoting Utah's natural grown products and services. Children's programs such as "Little Hands on the Farm," encourage children to learn about farming and each night of the fair a rodeo is held. Everything from a demolition derby to a stinky sneaker contest is featured at this fair along with the usual sweets, treats and rides. Admission is affordable and children under five are always free.