Utah’s Asian Community
Utah’s Asian Festival Marking Over 40 Years — and Other Ways to Celebrate the Asian Community in Utah
Utah is home to a range of Asian communities that together help weave the multicultural fabric of our state. Their journeys to Utah capture the narrative of resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of opportunity. From early immigrants seeking better prospects during the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad to the more recent waves of professionals, students, and families drawn by educational and economic opportunities, each member brings unique experiences and perspectives. The Asian community continues to thrive with the strength that enriches Utah’s story.
Celebrating Those That Help Connect Us: The Utah Asian Festival
In 1978, the Asian Association of Utah launched the first Utah Asian Festival at the Salt Palace, uniting multicultural Asian American communities. Since its founding, the festival has become a vital platform, celebrating and educating the public about Asian American experiences and contributions to Utah. The festival helps elevate and amplify the variety of Asian cultural heritage through food and performances.
Utah Japan Festival / Nihon Matsuri via. Facebook May 7, 2023
Roots of Resilience: Nihon Matsuri & The Obon Festival
Two community gatherings, the Salt Lake City Obon Festival and the Utah Japanese Festival (Nihon Matsuri 日本の祭l), aim to increase understanding and appreciation for Japanese American culture. Since 1936, the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple has hosted the Obon Festival, anchored in cherished Japanese traditions celebrating ancestors through dance and cultural offerings. The Utah Japanese Festival (Nihon Matsuri 日本の祭り), launched in 2005, is dedicated to keeping alive Japanese culture, traditions, and history.
→ Learn More about SLC Obon Festival and the Nihon Matsuri Festival
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Eateries from Around the World: Utah’s Rich Asian Food Scene
Utah’s Asian community serves food as an expression of cultural traditions, from the aroma of perfectly steamed rice to the elaborate sauces, spices, and oils that make traditional staples burst with flavor. Check out some picks from local Asian community organizations below.
Asian Community Organizations: Thriving Connections
Kathmandu Valley Co., “Festival of Colors in Spanish Fork Utah
Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple: An Amphitheater of Perseverance
For many, Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple is the go-to place to celebrate the Holi Festival — the Festival of Colors — but the building also brings awareness to the Hindu religion and Indian culture. The temple’s natural amphitheater hosts performances, cuisine tastings, and cultural exhibits that strengthen the community’s ties in Utah.
Keep Making Connections: News and Stories
Magnify Utah’s Community Pages capture organizations that support communities through resources, connections, and opportunity-building. The information does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement (CCE), Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, or divisions associated with CCE. The intent of this resource is to centralize information, not to endorse. The Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs reserves the right to accept or reject any submission or suggestion that does not align with the mission of Magnify Utah.