Pioneer Day (also archaically called the Day of Deliverance)[1] is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 in the U.S. state of Utah,[2] with some celebrations in regions of surrounding states originally settled by Mormon pioneers.[3][4] It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847,[5] where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois[6] and other locations in the eastern United States.[7]Parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities help commemorate the event. Similar to July 4th, most governmental offices[2] and many businesses are closed on Pioneer Day.[citation needed]
In addition to being an official holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day is considered a special occasion by many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).[8][9] On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart.[10] Latter-day Saints throughout the United States[11][12] and around the world may celebrate July 24 in remembrance of the LDS Churches' pioneer era, with songs, dances, and pioneer related activities.[13][14]
(... from Wikipedia on 2012-04-17 17:17:05)