Utah’s Living Traditions

What event better showcases Utah’s wide-ranging cultural heritage than Salt Lake City’s Living Traditions Festival? 

Presented by the Salt Lake City Arts Council in partnership with Utah Arts & Museums, Living Traditions aims to showcase a variety of cultural traditions.

Held in the heart of Salt Lake City and at times in areas outside of downtown, the festival features music, dance, crafts and food. Festivalgoers can experience a wide range of cultural performances and demonstrations that give heart to the festival’s name.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as  weaving and pottery-making, and  participate in hands-on workshops to learn new skills.

The festival also features a diverse lineup of music and dance performances, ranging from folk and traditional music to contemporary interpretations of cultural styles.

But many festival-goers are drawn to Living Traditions for the food booths, with vendors representing cuisines from Mexico, Somalia, and Japan and more, as well as Native American traditions.

This is an opportunity to embark on a culinary journey around the world without ever leaving Salt Lake City. From street tacos and tamales to samosas and sushi, there’s something to satisfy most every craving. Admission is free and  brings together several dozens of cultures that add to the rich fabric of Utah’s community.