Days of '47 Parade
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Days of '47 Parade is an annual parade presented by The Days of '47, Inc. The three-hour event is held in Salt Lake City starting at 9:00 a.m. MST on July 24, the same day as Pioneer Day, a Utah state holiday. It is one of the largest and oldest parades in the United States.
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[edit] History
On July 24, 1847, Brigham Young and a company of Mormon pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois and other locations in the eastern United States. Pulling handcarts or driving wagons with oxen or horses, thousands of pioneers carried a firm commitment to America's belief in freedom of religion as they made the trek across the plains to a vast desert landscape that became known as the Utah Territory.
According to Days of '47 Inc. "This trek of the early Utah pioneers exemplifies the courage, foresight, and faith that continue to inspire modern-day pioneers. By remembering those remarkable 1847 pioneers and all those who followed, The Days of '47 seeks to make their accomplishments and hardships live today through a variety of activities and celebrations each year. We believe the example of past and present pioneers' courage is a beacon to the world."
The parade was first held on July 24, 1849. It was then known as the "Pioneer Days Parade" up until 1931. From 1931 to 1946 the parade was known as the "Covered Wagon Days Parade". Since 1947 the parade has been known by its current name.
LDS Church wards and stakes, businesses and community groups have always sponsored floats in the parade. The military has always been well represented, and of course it always includes horses, bands, children and queens.
From the beginning, the pioneers who arrived in the valley before 1869 were honored with a dinner each July 24. The last living pioneer died in 1967. Her name was Hilda Ericson and she was 108 years old.
[edit] Performers and acts
In addition to the well-known balloons and floats, the parade also features live music and other performances. High school marching bands from across the state participate in the parade, and the television broadcasts feature performances by the bands.
[edit] Television coverage
The parade is televised throughout the intermountain area on NBC, known locally as KSL-TV Channel 5.
[edit] Parade route
The parade route starts at South Temple and Main Street, goes east to 200 East, south to 900 South, then east to Liberty Park at 600 East. Traditionally at Liberty Park a fair is held, with games and rides.
