Pioneer Day is a wonderful day celebrating the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in Utah. This event is remembered every year on July 24th. A significant, historic event took place in 1847. After Joseph Smith, a Mormon leader, was killed by an angry mob in Illinois, the Mormon community was forced to seek refuge. The community has been celebrating this day ever since. The most magnificent events, such as parades, fun quizzes, and contests, are held in Salt Lake City, the heart of the Mormon community.
History
Pioneer Day is in honor of the politician and religious leader Brigham Young and his followers arriving in Utah. Brigham Young became the state’s first governor and also served as president of the Latter-day Saints Church. Young replaced the tragically murdered Joseph Smith, who was believed to be a prophet. During his lifetime, Smith and his brother were persecuted and convicted, and in 1844 a mob broke into their prison cell and brutally executed the two brothers.
After the death of their leader, the Mormons were forced to flee. Three years later, the group ended up in Utah, where they founded Salt Lake City.
Interesting Facts
- Mormons strive to live in harmony, pay special attention to family values, and believe in a full-fledged, healthy family. Men and women are encouraged to adhere to traditional gender roles. This is their main rule for a happy life.
- Thanks to the industriousness of the Mormons, potatoes, turnips, and a dam appeared in Utah.
- The majority of Mormons today live in Utah; there are also many in Idaho, Nevada, and Arizona.
- For Mormons, Pioneer Day is an official holiday, so every year on July 24, they close their shops and businesses. Schools are also closed.
- One of the must-do activities on Pioneer Day is to walk the Mormon Trail, recreating the day the first settlers came to Utah.
- Mormons are a conservative community, with nearly 75% opposed to abortion.
- The Mormon religion in America is growing at a much faster rate than other communities and religions. About one million new parishioners join every three years.
How to Take Part
Be sure to take part in the celebrations. If they are not near, take the time to visit Utah. It is here you can see the brightest and largest events. Visit a Mormon church; this will help you immerse yourself in the Mormon religion for a day, and understand the followers of this faith. If you delve into the history of this religion, you will find many innovative ideas and victories in their annals.
When is Pioneer Day in 2024?
Pioneer Day is observed on July 24 each year.
Observations
Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
Wednesday | July | 24 | 2024 |
Thursday | July | 24 | 2025 |
Friday | July | 24 | 2026 |
Saturday | July | 24 | 2027 |
Monday | July | 24 | 2028 |
Tuesday | July | 24 | 2029 |