- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- AmericanAppreciationCivic
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every May 31
- Holiday emoji:
- 🏞️
National Utah Day arrives every May 31, inviting us to celebrate the distinct culture, breathtaking landscapes, and resilient people of the Beehive State. Explore its five national parks, delve into its rich pioneer and Native American history, and discover why Utah continues to thrive. Take a moment to appreciate Utah’s contributions to innovation, outdoor recreation, and community spirit.
Want to sponsor National Utah Day? Learn how
Expected National Utah Day Deals
While direct ‘National Utah Day’ promotions are rare, local businesses across the state often run special offers to celebrate regional pride. Expect deals from Utah-based brands like Cotopaxi on outdoor gear, discounts at ski resorts such as Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, and promotions from local eateries in Salt Lake City and beyond. Craft breweries like Squatters Pub Brewery might offer specials, and attractions like Thanksgiving Point could have discounted admission. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 31 approaches, encouraging support for Utah’s vibrant local economy.
Platform Guide for National Utah Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalUtahDay. Share stunning photos of Utah’s national parks, local businesses, or favorite state memories.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalUtahDay. Share stories about what makes Utah special to you or highlight local community events.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalUtahDay. Highlight Utah-based companies, economic achievements, or career opportunities within the state.
National Utah Day Hero
Brigham Young
History of National Utah Day
National Utah Day, albeit an unofficial holiday, celebrates the 45th state that gained statehood in the U.S. and the people and indigenous population that contributed to its formation. The settlement history of Utah is rather unique as it is believed that a religious group trekked a significant distance in search of a land where they would be free from persecution.
Utah was originally inhabited by Native American tribes including one named Ute, which is where the state gets its name from. When the state entered the Union, the Mormon locals proposed that it be named Deseret, which meant ‘honeybee,’ according to the Book of Mormon. However, Congress felt the name sounded like ‘desert’ so they named it after the Ute tribe.
The first Mormon pioneers settled in the territory in 1847. Now, around 60% of the state’s population are members of the Mormon church. Owing to this, the culture, politics, and daily life of the state are greatly influenced by the church, however, it has still embraced change over the years.
The federal government owns approximately two-thirds of Utah’s land with around one-tenth under the state’s ownership. The native Americans there are provided with a small proportion for their use. Currently, Utah’s economy relies heavily on tourism, owing to its fantastic skiing options near the mountains, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Utah has evolved into a dynamic and diverse state that is thronged with many tourists from America and around the world.
National Utah Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the history and growth of the state. Over the years, it has come into its own and found its way onto must-visit destination lists and has become a viable option to move to.
National Utah Day timeline
The territory of Utah is established by the U.S. Congress.
Great Salt Lake City replaces Fillmore as the territorial capital of Utah.
Utah is admitted as the 45th state of the U.S.
The state of Utah passes the Utah Transfer of Public Lands Act to obtain control over a significant portion of federal-owned land in Utah.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Utah Day
Local businesses in Utah can celebrate National Utah Day by showcasing their state pride and supporting the community. Restaurants might offer specials featuring locally sourced ingredients or create dishes inspired by Utah’s culinary traditions. Retailers can highlight products made in Utah or offer discounts to residents. Businesses could also partner with local charities focused on environmental conservation or historical preservation, demonstrating their commitment to the Beehive State’s unique heritage and future.
National Utah Day FAQs
When is National Utah Day?
In 2027, National Utah Day will be observed on Monday, May 31, providing a chance to kick off the week by celebrating Utah’s unique contributions and landscapes.
What is Utah's nickname?
The moniker ‘Beehive State’ for Utah dates back to the early pioneer days, symbolizing the hard work and community focus of its residents. The beehive (deseret) also appears on the state’s official emblem, representing industry.
How many national parks are in Utah?
Known for its incredible natural beauty, Utah boasts five distinct national parks. Each park, from the towering sandstone cliffs of Zion to the unique hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic exploration.
What is the largest lake in Utah?
Dominating the landscape near Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake is not only the largest lake in Utah but also a significant ecological feature. Its vast, shallow, and saline waters support a unique array of brine shrimp and birds.
How To Celebrate National Utah Day
Visit Utah
How about visiting Utah on National Utah Day? If you stay close by, you can head over there for a weekend getaway or even plan a long trip to soak in everything Utah has to offer.
Plan a ski trip in Utah
Utah is known for its beautiful mountains that provide excellent skiing landscapes. You can go ski there for a birthday, anniversary, or just to escape the city.
Read about Utah
If you don’t know much about Utah, that’s okay. National Utah Day is the perfect way to equip yourself with all the knowledge you need about this glorious state. Search for articles online or head to the public library and settle down with some books that best describe its people and stories.
5 Super Interesting Facts About Utah
Ute tribe
The name ‘Utah’ comes from the Ute tribe, which essentially means ‘the mountain people.’
Largest lake
The Great Salt Lake is the largest lake to the west of the Mississippi River.
Natural sandstone arches
The Arches National Park contains over 2,000 natural sandstone arches.
Handmade dolls
The Uintah County Library in Utah is home to a collection of handmade dolls that have been modeled after every U.S. First Lady up to Nancy Reagan.
U.S.’s first department store
Utah is home to the country’s first department store called Zion’s Co-operative Mercantile Institution, which was later bought by Macy’s.
Why We Love National Utah Day
It celebrates Utah’s history and culture
Utah is full of history and culture owing to its Native American and Mormon pioneer ancestors. Its beautiful evolution from a territory to statehood now boasts a thriving economy and life. National Utah Day helps us remember everything this state has to offer.
Utah is a famous tourist spot
Due to Utah’s geographical position, it has been blessed with magnificent mountains, canyons, national parks, and forest lands. The mountains offer skiing landscapes and Utah is also home to the largest lake, the Great Salt Lake. National Utah Day encourages us to acknowledge the beauty of Utah in all its glory.
Utah had the first woman senator
Utah gave the United States its first woman senator, Martha Hughes Cannon. A remarkable woman, she was a leader in Utah's women's suffrage movement and helped put it in the state's constitution. She also established the first board of health and a school for the deaf and blind in Utah.
Social Media Tips for National Utah Day
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