What's Happening Now — Mid-July 2026 on the Wasatch Front
Archive — July 23, 2026: Draper Days has concluded and Pioneer Day week is underway through July 25. For the most current events happening right now and through early August, see our late-July & early-August guide covering Post Malone, Death Cab for Cutie, the Stray Cats, the Sandy Balloon Festival, ABBAFAB at Daybreak, and more. For late summer through September, see our late-summer guide for Cornbelly's Sunflower Festival, Snowbird Oktoberfest, back-to-school, and more.
Earlier guides? See our comprehensive mid-July guide for detailed Draper Days and Days of '47 schedules, or our early-July guide for Independence Day coverage.
The Wasatch Front is right in the heart of its most exciting stretch of summer. This is the week where Draper Days reaches its grand finale — the parade, the drone show, the fireworks — and then the energy pivots to Days of '47, Utah's most storied Pioneer Day celebration. Meanwhile, the wildflowers in Albion Basin are putting on their annual show, farmers markets across the valley are overflowing with peak-season produce, and the Sandy Amphitheater continues to book incredible national touring acts.
If you live along the Wasatch Front, these next two weeks are the absolute pinnacle of summer community life. And if you are exploring the region for a potential move — researching neighborhoods, comparing communities — there is no better time to visit. Adam and Natalie Stark are out at these events every summer, and this is their guide to everything happening right now and in the coming weeks across Salt Lake and Utah Counties.
July 13 Through August 1: At a Glance
- Every Saturday: Sandy Farmers Market (9 a.m.) · Downtown SLC Farmers Market (8 a.m.) · Daybreak Farmers Market (9 a.m.) · Thanksgiving Point Farmers Market (9 a.m.)
- Every Sunday: 9th West Farmers Market at Jordan Park (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
- Every Monday: Saratoga Springs Farmers Market (5 p.m.) · Herriman Farmers Market
- Tuesdays: Draper Farmers Market & Food Truck Night (opens July 21, 5 p.m.) · Daybreak Cove Night Market (July 14 & 28, 5 p.m.)
- Fridays: Millcreek Harvest Market at Millcreek Common (5 p.m.)
- July 14–18 (past): Draper Days — drone show, parade, and fireworks (wrapped up)
- July 17 (past): Paul Cauthen at Sandy Amphitheater
- July 20 (Mon — Today): Herriman Summer Sunset Series (5 p.m. at J. Lynn Crane Park)
- July 21 (Tue): Days of '47 Rodeo Night One · Jimmy Eat World at Sandy Amphitheater · Draper Farmers Market opens (5 p.m.) · Float Preview Party at Mountain America Expo Center
- July 21–25: American Fork Steel Days · Days of '47 Rodeo continues
- July 22 (Wed): Jimmy Eat World second night at Sandy Amphitheater · Float Preview Party continues
- July 24 (Fri — Pioneer Day): Deseret News Marathon (6 a.m.) · Days of '47 Grand Parade (9 a.m.) · Spanish Fork Fiesta Grand Parade · Pioneer Day Drone Show at Liberty Park (10 p.m.)
- July 25 (Sat): Days of '47 Gold Medal Round + Drone/Fireworks · Steel Days Grand Parade & Fireworks
- July 26 (Sun): Totally Tubular Festival at Red Butte Garden · Melissa Etheridge & Indigo Girls at Sandy Amphitheater
- July 27 (Mon): Twilight Concert Series in SLC
- July 28 (Tue): Post Malone at Rice-Eccles Stadium
- July 28–29: Death Cab for Cutie at Sandy Amphitheater
- July 29 – Aug 1: Utah County Fair & Rodeo at Spanish Fork Fairgrounds
- July 30 – Aug 1: World Folkfest in Springville
- July 31 – Aug 2: Highland Fling in Highland
- July 31: Murray Park Farmers Market opens
- August 1–8: Lindon Days
- August 7–8: Sandy Hot Air Balloon Festival & Glow
Draper Days: The Grand Finale This Week
Draper Days 2026 wrapped up this past weekend (July 17-18) with a spectacular drone show on Friday night and the beloved parade followed by a massive fireworks display on Saturday. If you were out there enjoying the festivities, we hope you had a wonderful time — the drone show was one of the best we have seen in years. If you missed it, mark your calendar for next year, and check out the other amazing events happening this week along the Wasatch Front.
Draper Days 2026 — Wrap Up
- Friday, July 17: Park activities, live concerts, and choreographed drone show — hundreds of illuminated drones formed shapes against the Wasatch Mountain backdrop. Free admission.
- Saturday, July 18: Draper Days Parade at 9:00 a.m. through downtown Draper — floats, marching bands, community groups. Park activities and a massive fireworks display in the evening.
Draper Days 2026 has concluded. Next year's dates will be announced by the city in spring 2027.
The Friday night drone show has become the most talked-about new tradition in the south valley — hundreds of drones illuminated the sky forming patriotic images against the mountain backdrop, completely silent except for the crowd's reactions. And Saturday morning's parade through downtown Draper captured the heart of what makes this community special: neighbors lining the streets, kids grabbing candy from floats, and a genuine small-town atmosphere. Adam and Natalie help clients find homes in Draper regularly — Draper Days is always one of the first things they recommend to people considering the move, and this year's celebration did not disappoint.
Draper City Park & Downtown Draper · draperutah.gov — Draper Days
Days of '47: Pioneer Day Week Starts July 18
The moment Draper Days ends, the calendar pivots to Days of '47 — Utah's most storied Pioneer Day celebration. Running July 18–25 with nightly rodeo, the world-famous Grand Parade on July 24, and a Gold Medal Round finale, Days of '47 is one of the most unique celebrations in the American West. This is the week when Utah's pioneer heritage comes alive with parades, rodeos, fireworks, and community pride at its strongest.
Key Days of '47 Dates
- Saturday, July 18: Family Heritage Day at This is the Place Heritage Park (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) — pioneer activities, crafts, and living history demonstrations. A wonderful way to kick off Pioneer Day week with kids.
- Tuesday, July 21: Days of '47 Rodeo Night One at the Utah State Fairpark. Fun Zone opens at 5:00 p.m. (free), rodeo at 8:00 p.m. Also: Float Preview Party at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy (free admission, indoors — great way to escape the heat and see the incredible craftsmanship up close).
- July 22–23: Rodeo continues nightly. Float Preview Party continues at Mountain America Expo Center.
- Friday, July 24 (Pioneer Day): The big day. Deseret News Marathon starts at 5:30 a.m. · Days of '47 Grand Parade at 9:00 a.m. through downtown SLC — one of the largest parades in the western United States, with elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and community groups stretching for blocks. Rodeo Night Four in the evening.
- Friday, July 24, 10:00 p.m.: Pioneer Day Drone Show at Liberty Park — 300 drones creating scenes of Utah's culture and natural wonders. Free admission. A spectacular modern alternative to traditional fireworks.
- Saturday, July 25: Gold Medal Round of the Days of '47 Rodeo — the championship night with the best riders and ropers in the country. Drone and fireworks show at 10:30 p.m.
For families along the Wasatch Front, Days of '47 week is an annual tradition. The Grand Parade is one of those events that makes you proud to call Utah home — the floats are works of art, the community participation is incredible, and watching it from the street with your kids is a core memory. The Float Preview Party at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy is a hidden gem: it is free, indoors, and gives you an up-close look at the floats before they roll through downtown. Adam and Natalie attend the Grand Parade every year — it is one of their favorite summer traditions.
Utah State Fairpark, Downtown SLC & Liberty Park · daysof47.com · utahdaysof47rodeo.com
Sandy Amphitheater: Concerts Coming Up
Sandy's 9,000-seat outdoor amphitheater continues to deliver one of the best summer lineups in years. The intimate scale compared to larger venues means better sightlines and a more personal concert experience — and the mountain backdrop makes every show feel special. Here is what is on the horizon:
- July 17 (Friday): Paul Cauthen — the self-proclaimed "Big Velvet" brings his commanding baritone and outlaw country energy to the amphitheater stage. Gates 6 p.m., show 7 p.m.
- July 21 (Tuesday): Jimmy Eat World — "25 Years of Bleed American" Tour with Motion City Soundtrack and Illuminati Hotties. A nostalgic, high-energy double-header. 6:00 p.m.
- July 22 (Wednesday): Jimmy Eat World — second night. Same lineup. 6:00 p.m.
- July 26 (Sunday): Melissa Etheridge & Indigo Girls — two iconic artists share the stage for an unforgettable evening of rock and folk. 6:30 p.m.
- July 28–29 (Tue–Wed): Death Cab for Cutie — "I Built You a Tower World Tour" with Nation of Language. One of the most anticipated indie rock shows of the summer. 7:00 p.m.
Shows at this venue sell out fast. Check sandyamp.com for tickets. For Sandy and Draper residents, the amphitheater is practically in your backyard — it is one of those quality-of-life perks that makes the south valley special.
More Concerts: Red Butte Garden & Twilight Series
Beyond the Sandy Amphitheater, the Wasatch Front offers two more outstanding concert series this month:
Red Butte Garden Concert Series
One of the most beautiful outdoor concert venues in the West. On Sunday, July 26, the Totally Tubular Festival brings Thomas Dolby, A Flock of Seagulls, The Motels, Animotion, Tommy Tutone, and more for a night of '80s nostalgia in the gorgeous Red Butte Garden setting. The series continues through the summer with an eclectic lineup. On the University of Utah campus with mountain views and garden trails.
Twilight Concert Series
SLC's beloved free outdoor concert series continues at Pioneer Park. On Monday, July 27, Suki Waterhouse headlines with a warm summer evening of indie-pop. Check the Downtown SLC Alliance for the full 2026 lineup — these free shows draw great crowds and have a wonderful community atmosphere.
Free Community Concerts
Draper Concerts in the Park
Free weekly concerts every Wednesday evening (7:00 – 8:30 p.m.) at Draper Historic Park continue through August. A wonderful midweek tradition featuring local bands against the backdrop of the Wasatch foothills. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy live music with neighbors. The series wraps up the week of Draper Days with a special performance.
Draper Historic Park · draperutah.gov
LiveDaybreak Summer Concert Series
Daybreak's free summer concert series continues at America First Square on the Rio Tinto Kennecott Stage. Lakeside shows bring the Daybreak community together under the summer sky. Check mydaybreak.com for the latest lineup. If you are house-hunting in the Daybreak area, catching a concert here gives you a wonderful feel for the community vibe.
Herriman Summer Sunset Series
The Herriman Summer Sunset Series continues at J. Lynn Crane Park. Today (Monday, July 20, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.) is the next event — featuring a vendor market, food trucks, live entertainment, and family activities. The July 21 Foam Party is a hit with families — bring the kids for an afternoon of bubbles and fun. A perfect, relaxed way to spend a summer evening in the southwest valley.
J. Lynn Crane Park, Herriman · herriman.gov
Outdoor Adventures: Peak Wildflowers & Water Recreation
Mid-July is when the Wasatch Front's outdoor scene hits its absolute peak. Wildflowers are blooming at the highest elevations, all trails are clear of snow, reservoirs are at their warmest, and the long daylight hours — sunrise around 6:00 a.m., sunset near 9:00 p.m. — give you more daylight than almost anywhere in the country. Here are the highlights right now:
Albion Basin Wildflowers — Peak Bloom Right Now
The high alpine meadow above Alta ski area is erupting with some of the most spectacular wildflower displays in the Intermountain West. Lupine, Indian paintbrush, and columbine blanket the meadows against a backdrop of rugged granite peaks. The Albion Basin Interpretive Trail is a relatively easy 1-mile loop. This week and next are peak bloom. Parking fills extremely early on summer weekends (before 7:00 a.m.) — consider a weekday visit. A fee or shuttle may be required. This is a must-do at least once during a Utah summer.
Evening Hikes in Corner Canyon (Draper)
Head up Corner Canyon around 6:30–7:00 p.m. when the sun dips behind the Oquirrh range. Shady trails, cooler temperatures, and spectacular sunset views over the south valley. Over 150 miles of interconnected trails make Corner Canyon one of the best trail systems in the state. If you are considering buying a home near Corner Canyon, this is the best way to experience the lifestyle firsthand.
Paddleboarding on Oquirrh Lake (Daybreak)
Daybreak residents can rent kayaks and paddleboards for free on Oquirrh Lake. For visitors, the 3.2-mile lake loop trail is perfect for a morning walk, followed by a dirty chai and fresh pastry at Biscotts Bakery & Cafe at the Hub. The lake is calmest in the early morning — it is a small glimpse of the lifestyle that draws so many families to this community.
Blackridge Reservoir Swimming (Herriman)
This man-made reservoir with a sandy beach is Herriman's go-to summer swimming spot. The water is at its warmest now in mid-July, and the surrounding trails and mountain biking paths make it easy to combine a swim with a full outdoor day. Kayaking and fishing are also popular here — a hidden gem that feels like a mountain retreat without leaving the valley.
Bell Canyon Waterfall (Sandy/Draper)
One of the most popular local hikes — the Bell Canyon Trail leads to a dramatic waterfall that is flowing well with summer snowmelt. Arrive early (before 8:00 a.m.) on weekends to secure parking at the trailhead. The lower reservoir is also a great swimming spot on hot July days.
Tibble Fork Reservoir (American Fork Canyon)
This alpine reservoir in American Fork Canyon is one of the most popular summer destinations along the Wasatch Front. Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in crystal-clear mountain water surrounded by pine forests and granite peaks. The water is cold — refreshing on a hot July day. Arrive early on weekends as the parking lot fills by 9:00 a.m.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument (American Fork)
A guided cave tour through three stunning limestone caves is one of Utah's most unique experiences. The 1.5-mile hike up to the cave entrance is steep but rewarding, and the 60-degree cave interior is a welcome break from July heat. Reservations are essential during peak summer — book early at recreation.gov.
Splash Pads, Water Parks & Family Cooling Stations
With July temperatures pushing into the high 80s and low 90s, the valley's splash pads and water parks are the perfect afternoon escape for families. Here is where to cool off across Salt Lake and Utah Counties:
Water Parks
- Cowabunga Bay Water Park (Draper): 12047 S State St — the south valley's premier water park with slides, lazy river, wave pool, and kid zones. Open daily in July with two sessions. cowabungabay.com
- Splash Summit Waterpark (Provo): Family water park with slides and attractions. Open daily during summer season. Great for Utah County families.
- Cherry Hill (Murray/Kearns): Family recreation center with pools, water features, and mini golf. A classic Salt Lake Valley summer tradition.
Draper Smith Fields Park
Splash pad plus large playground. Open Tue–Sat, 12–8 p.m. Free. Great on Draper Days weekend.
Sandy Amphitheater Park Splash Pad
Free splash pad near the amphitheater grounds. Combine with a Saturday farmers market visit or a concert.
Herriman Splash Pads
J. Lynn Crane Park, Oquirrh Shadows Park, Rosecrest Park, Umbria Estates. Open daily 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Free.
Daybreak Splash Pads
Multiple locations throughout the Daybreak community. Free for residents and visitors. Pair with a lake walk.
Cottonwood Heights Mountain View Park
Free splash pad with mountain views. A locals' favorite for cooling off after a canyon hike.
Millcreek Common Splash Pad
Free splash pad at Millcreek Common. Open daily during summer. Combine with the Harvest Market on Friday evenings.
Farmers Markets: Peak Season Across the Valley
The 2026 farmers market season is at its absolute peak. Saturday mornings along the Wasatch Front are filled with fresh produce, local honey, artisan goods, and that unmistakable community energy. And this month, several new markets open for the season.
Daybreak Farmers Market
When: Every Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. through October 17 · Where: SoDa Row, Downtown Daybreak
A Saturday morning staple in the south valley. Browse fresh local produce, artisan goods, and specialty foods while enjoying the lakeside community atmosphere. Afterward, walk around Oquirrh Lake or grab a pastry at Biscotts Bakery & Cafe at the Hub.
Sandy Farmers Market
When: Every Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. through October 17 · Where: Sandy Amphitheater Park (1245 E 9400 S)
In peak season at the amphitheater grounds with vibrant local produce, artisan honey, fresh-baked goods, and handmade designs. Live music often accompanies the shopping.
Downtown SLC Farmers Market
When: Every Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. through October 24 · Where: Pioneer Park (300 S 300 W)
Utah's largest farmers market with over 200 vendors each week. The Tuesday evening market adds live music and a relaxed after-work atmosphere. A must-visit during the summer.
9th West Farmers Market
When: Every Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. · Where: Jordan Park / International Peace Gardens, SLC
A Sunday market option at the beautiful International Peace Gardens in Jordan Park. Great for central and south Salt Lake Valley residents who want a relaxed weekend market experience with diverse vendors.
Draper Farmers Market & Food Truck Night
When: Every Tuesday, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. through October 13 · Opens tomorrow! Where: Smith Fields Park (200 E 13400 S)
Opens tomorrow, July 21! Draper's Tuesday evening market brings together local farmers, food trucks, and families on summer evenings. Spread out a blanket, grab dinner from a rotating lineup of food trucks, and browse fresh crops while the sun sets over the Wasatch foothills.
Saratoga Springs Farmers Market
When: Every Monday, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. through September 28 · Where: Neptune Park (452 W 400 N)
Part of the city's Summer Monday Fundays with food trucks and local vendors. A great weeknight community gathering on Utah County's western edge.
Millcreek Harvest Market
When: Every Friday, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. · Where: Millcreek Common
A Friday evening market at Millcreek Common with fresh produce, food vendors, and a community atmosphere. Great for central Salt Lake Valley families looking for a weeknight market.
Daybreak Cove Night Market
When: Second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. · Where: Cove House Park, Upper Daybreak
A community favorite featuring local vendors, food, and that relaxed lakeside evening atmosphere. Next markets: Tuesday, July 14 and Tuesday, July 28.
Thanksgiving Point: Imaginaria & Family Fun
Lehi's Thanksgiving Point remains the premier family destination along the Wasatch Front. Imaginaria at Ashton Gardens continues through August 22, 2026 — an immersive summer festival bringing the 50-acre gardens to life with stunning light, sound, and interactive outdoor art installations. Explore giant American landmarks including a 40-foot Statue of Liberty, a 250-foot obstacle course, and a field of historical flags — all part of the America 250 celebration.
Also continuing through July, the Utah Symphony performs in Ashton Gardens on Friday evenings — an annual tradition featuring an evening of music surrounded by blooming flowers. One of the most memorable summer evenings you can have in Utah County.
Thanksgiving Point also features the Museum of Natural Curiosity, the Museum of Life, and the Farm at Thanksgiving Point — all excellent for keeping kids entertained on hot July afternoons. Combine a morning at the museums with an evening walk through Imaginaria for a full day of family fun.
Ashton Gardens, Thanksgiving Point, Lehi · thanksgivingpoint.org — Imaginaria
Where to Eat: Patio Dining & Local Favorites
All that exploring works up a serious appetite, and patio season is in full swing. With the long summer evenings — sunset near 9:00 p.m. — outdoor dining feels like an event. Here are Adam and Natalie's recommendations:
Daybreak & South Jordan
Biscotts Bakery & Cafe
The Hub, Downtown Daybreak · A community favorite for dirty chais, fresh pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. The perfect stop after a morning lake loop walk or Saturday market visit.
Porch Restaurant
11274 S Kestrel Rise Rd, South Jordan · Upscale casual dining with a welcoming atmosphere. Excellent for a family dinner or date night.
Draper & Sandy
The Cliff Dining Pub
12234 Draper Gate Dr · Upscale American gastropub with a patio overlooking the valley. Perfect for a warm summer evening after a Corner Canyon hike.
Sauce Boss Southern Kitchen
877 E 12300 S, Draper · Hot chicken, ribs, mac & cheese, and Southern comfort food favorites. Bold flavors worth the drive from anywhere in the south valley.
Lehi & Thanksgiving Point
Trellis Cafe
Inside Ashton Gardens, Thanksgiving Point · Seasonal patio dining with panoramic views of the waterwheel and gardens. One of the best lunch spots in Utah County during summer.
Harvest Restaurant
At Thanksgiving Point · Contemporary American comfort food with fresh, local ingredients. Excellent for dinner during Imaginaria or after a round of golf.
Herriman
Guras Spice House
5530 13400 S, Herriman · Highly rated Indian and South Asian cuisine. A local favorite with bold flavors and generous portions.
Slackwater Pizza
5197 Denali Park Dr, Herriman · Popular Utah-based pizza chain with creative specialty pies and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
Experience the Wasatch Front Lifestyle
Summer is the best time to experience everything this region has to offer. Whether you are researching neighborhoods, comparing communities, or ready to make a move, Adam and Natalie Stark know every corner of Salt Lake and Utah Counties. Let us help you find the perfect fit.
Looking for the full summer calendar?
Our guides cover everything from the early-June kickoff through Days of '47 and beyond.
Related Articles
Late-July & Early-August Guide
Pioneer Day, Balloon Festival & Death Cab for Cutie
Comprehensive Mid-July Guide
Draper Days, Days of '47 & Summer's Peak
Ultimate Summer Guide: Lakes, Trails & Parks
Complete outdoor activities guide for the Wasatch Front
Events & Festivals Directory
Annual events calendar for the entire Wasatch Front
About the Authors
Stark Group Real Estate is a premier husband-and-wife real estate team serving Utah's Wasatch Front. Combining high-level financial acumen with cutting-edge marketing, Adam and Natalie deliver a highly supportive, tech-forward, and top-tier experience for buyers and sellers across a wide range of life transitions.