2025 101 Things to Do Payson-Santaquin by Daily Herald

2016-2024

EXPLORE

THE LOCAL POSSIBILITIES!

Indoors or outdoors, sports- or arts-related, adventurous or relaxing — all this and more is available in and around the communities of Payson and Santaquin.

Residents here enjoy an amazing selection of things to see and do. Both cities have robust parks and recreation departments that offer long lists of classes and activities for children and adults alike. Parks and sports facilities offering a wide range of recreational opportunities are also readily available.

With both cities lying adjacent the Wasatch Mountains, many trails and camping locations are accessible to residents within minutes of home along with fishing opportunities and other fun water activities.

Within this magazine are 101 ideas of activities, locations, programs and more you can participate in and enjoy during 2025. When possible, a QR code is included with the idea so you can quickly access more information online.

Some ideas are events with specific dates, while others can be experienced throughout a specific season or year-round. The dated events extend into December, so keep this magazine handy to serve as your recreation guide throughout the year.

This, of course, is not an exhaustive list of all that Payson and Santaquin have to offer, but it is a starting point for beginning your explorations of these two cities.

This magazine produced by the Daily Herald

Jim Konig

& Editor: Christi C. Babbitt

Design: Marcia C. Harris

‘SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL’

MARCH 13-17

Salem Hills High School will present “Seussical the Musical,” on March 13, 14 and 17 at 7 p.m. and on March 15 at 2 p.m. in the SHHS auditorium, located at 150 Skyhawk Blvd., Salem. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at www.skyhawk.theater. This musical comedy is based on the many children’s stories written by Dr. Seuss, including “Horton Hears a Who,” “Gertrude McFuzz” and “Horton Hatches the Egg.”

SANTAQUIN MASQUERADE BALL

MARCH 14

The Santaquin Masquerade Ball will be held Friday, March 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Santaquin City Hall Multipurpose Room, 110 S. Center Street, for ages 18 and older. Those attending are encouraged to wear their finest, including a masquerade mask. Tickets are $20 per couple and $10 per person. Tickets may be purchased at https:// santaquin.activityreg.com.

RILEYS’ ORCHARD & U-PICK GARDEN 3

4

MISS SANTAQUIN PAGEANT

At Rileys’ Orchard and U-Pick Garden in Genola (just south of Santaquin), visitors can select their own greenhouse flowers and vegetable plant starts in April and May, then pick their own vegetables and fruits July through October. A schedule of when each type of produce is available on their website. Riley’s is located at 294 N. 800 East in Genola and is open Monday through Saturday during the harvest season.

MARCH 22

The 2025 Miss Santaquin Pageant will be held Saturday, March 22, at 7 p.m. in the Payson High School Auditorium, 1050 S. Main St., Payson. Admission is $10 per person.

SPRING FLING 5K & 1 MILE 5

MARCH 29

Join other running enthusiasts at the annual Spring Fling 5K Race, where vibrant blooms and fresh air will set the perfect stage for a fun-filled day of fitness and community spirit. All participants will receive a custom Spring Fling T-shirt and a finisher’s medal to commemorate their achievement. Plus, prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in various age categories! The race will begin at 10 a.m.; registration fee is $20 for the 5K and $10 for the 1 Mile race. Location is to be determined; visit the Santaquin City website for more details and to register.

MUSICAL: ‘HADESTOWN’ 6

APRIL 17-28

Salem Hills High School will present “Hadestown,” on April 17, 18, 19, 21, 24, 25, 26 and 28 at 7 p.m. in the SHHS auditorium, located at 150 Skyhawk Blvd., Salem. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at www.skyhawk.theater. This Tony Awardwinning musical tells the story of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in which Eurydice goes to work in an industrial version of the Greek underworld and her lover Orpheus attempts to save her from her fate.

TEEN FLASHLIGHT HUNT 7

APRIL 18

This event for ages 13 through 18 puts a new spin on the traditional egg hunt. The fifth annual Teen Flashlight Hunt will begin at 9 p.m. at the Harvest View Sports Complex, 1400 S. Harvest View Drive, Santaquin. Participants will use glow sticks and flashlights (bring your own flashlight) to hunt for eggs in the dark. Some eggs will have prize numbers in them. The Flashlight Hunt will begin at 9 p.m. and end around 9:30 p.m. Games, bounce houses and food will then be available, with the activities continuing until 10:30 p.m.

8 ROB GARDNER’S ‘LAMB OF GOD’

GROTTO FALLS TRAIL 9

The Grotto Falls Trail is an easy and very popular trail that follows a stream up to a waterfall and shallow pool surrounded by rocky cliffs. The trail crosses the stream several times; small log “bridges” are in place. This hike is best enjoyed in spring, summer and fall. Traveling south on the Nebo Loop Road, the trailhead is located 8 miles south of Payson City on the Mount Nebo National Scenic Byway (Nebo Loop). The trailhead is located just south of the Bennie Creek trailhead. There is a fenced gravel parking lot for your car.

APRIL 18, 19 & 20

Rob Gardner’s Easter oratorio “Lamb of God” will be presented by the South Canyons Chorus and Orchestra on April 18 at 7 p.m. (for ages 6 and older), April 19 at 4 p.m. (for all ages) and April 20 at 7 p.m. (for ages 6 and older) in the Payson High School Auditorium, 1050 S. Main Street, Payson. Admission is free but tickets are required and can be obtained at southcanyonsmusic. org. “Lamb of God” is a powerful oratorio that tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ, with a focus on the crucifixion and resurrection.

ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION 10

APRIL 24

Payson City is part of the Tree City USA program and is proud of the trees it has in its parks and around the city. Every April, as part of an Arbor Day ceremony, the city invites a third-grade class from one of the local elementary schools to join with city representatives at a city park to plant trees and learn about the importance of planting and caring for trees. The public is invited to attend this event; check the city website for more details.

EASTER EGG HUNTS 11

APRIL 19

Payson and Santaquin cities both offer Easter Egg Hunts as part of the spring season. Both will be held on March 30 this year. Grab your baskets and go on the hunt at these popular free events!

The Santaquin Great Egg Hunt will be held Saturday, April 19, at the Harvest View Sports Complex, 1400 S. Harvest View Drive (please note: this is a NEW location for the hunt). The hunt for ages 1 through 12 will start at 9 a.m. The age divisions will be as follows: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10 and 11-12. An all-abilities hunt for ages 1 through 12 will start at 9:30 a.m. There will be other fun activities and surprises as well such as a petting zoo, special golden eggs and photo ops with the Easter Bunny.

The Payson Easter Egg Hunt will also be held on Saturday, April 19. It will take place at the Hillman Softball Complex, 955 S. Main, at 10 a.m. Children ages 2 through 12 may participate; the event is free of charge. Children will have an egg-cellent time gathering filled eggs. FEE

GREAT FOR KIDS!

ICE BREAKER PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

APRIL 24, 25 & 26

Santaquin Recreation will present its third annual Ice Breaker Pickleball Tournament on April 24, 25 and 26 at the Harvest View Sports Complex, 1400 S. Harvest View Drive. Players are guaranteed six games - five game round robin with a single elimination bracket. Awards will be presented. There will be Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles divisions. Registration is available on the Santaquin City website (scan the QR code).

APRIL 26

The purpose of this annual event in Payson is to Pay It Forward in the local community. The community will come together in the morning to run in the 5K/1 mile challenge, and then after the race go to local businesses and give gift cards to those shopping in the businesses. Let’s all “Pay It Forward” in our community. The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Memorial Park, 300 S. Main, Payson. Register at paysoncityrec.activityreg.com.

PLAY DISC GOLF 14

Disc golf courses are available in both Payson and Santaquin. The Payson Canyon Disc Golf Course is located at 12161 Forest Road 015 and has 18 holes. Santaquin offers a 9-hole disc golf course at Theodore Ahlin Park, 1125 S. Pole Canyon Road.

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SPRING DISC GOLF TOURNAMENT

APRIL 26

Santaquin Recreation will host the Spring Disc Golf Tournament on April 26. This event will have multiple divisions to compete in for fabulous prizes. Those participating must bring their own discs. The tournament will be held at Theodore Ahlin Park, 1125 S. Pole Canyon Road, Santaquin. Check-in time is 8:30 to 9 a.m. A longest drive contest will be held at 9 a.m. with the tournament following the contest. Registration is available online at santaquin.activityreg. com (or scan QR code).

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! FUN FREE

Payson Disc Golf Course

Santaquin Disc Golf Course

BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

SPRING

The dates for the Blossom Festival at Rowley’s Red Barn change from year to year depending on when the blossoming will peak, so visit the website for updates! Visitors should check in at the barn when they arrive; they are then welcome to walk through designated areas of the orchard and enjoy the incredible flowering beauty spring brings to Santaquin’s fruit orchards. Don’t forget your camera! Visitors are welcome anytime the Red Barn is open. Rowley’s Red Barn is located at 901 S. 300 West, Santaquin.

MUSICAL: ‘LES MISERABLES’

APRIL 29 - MAY 3

The Payson High School drama department will be presenting the beloved musical “Les Miserables” April 29 through May 3 at 7 p.m. in the Payson High School Auditorium, 1050 S. Main Street, Payson. Tickets are $10 per person or $45 for a family pass of six tickets. Tickets may be purchased at the door or at phs-theatre.org.

DE MAYO/ VIVA EL MARIACHI

MAY 5

Payson City will host the Cinco de Mayo/Viva el Mariachi celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Peteetneet Amphitheater, 10 N. 600 East. The event will feature a variety of performing groups presenting traditional music and dance. Mexican food trucks and craft booths will also be on site.

MAGAZINE

19

SANTAQUIN ART FESTIVAL

MAY 10

The Santaquin Art Festival will include art booths, live demonstrations, classes for youth and adults, youth arts performances, food trucks and a plein air (painting out of doors) event. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Santaquin City Hall Multipurpose Room. Admission is free, but some events or activities may have fees to participate.

JOIN THE YOUTH CITY COUNCIL

Both Santaquin and Payson offer this opportunity to local youth. Members of the youth city council assist with civic activities and learn more about how their city operates. For more information, contact your local city office.

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES 21

MAY 26

Memorial Day services are planned in both Payson and Santaquin in 2025. American Legion Santaquin Post 84 will hold its annual Memorial Day Program on Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Monument in the Santaquin City Cemetery, 100 E. 300 South. The public is invited to attend; please bring your own chairs. The Payson Memorial Day program will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Payson City Cemetery, 400 N. 800 East.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST 22

MAY 26

Each Memorial Day, the Santaquin Fire/ EMS Association hosts a pancake breakfast at the city’s Public Safety Building, 275 W. Main Street. This year’s breakfast will be held on May 26 from 7 to 10 a.m. Money raised benefits the city’s fire and EMS department.

DAILY HERALD

Dr David Baggaley Chiropractic

Dr. TJ Phelps Chiropractic

PLAY BASKETBALL 23

Through a grant from the Utah Jazz as well as donations and RAP tax funds, a basketball court was built in Santaquin’s Centennial Park, 300 W. 100 South. The grant money allowed the court to be constructed with higher-quality materials; the hoops even have an adjustment mechanism allowing users to raise and lower the baskets. The court features six basketball hoops arranged to provide half-court or fullcourt play as well as the Jazz logo. Basketballs can be checked out for free from the Santaquin Recreation Office located across the street from Centennial Park.

GLADSTAN GOLF COURSE 24

The Gladstan Golf Course, a Utah Valley gem, features 18 holes of rolling fairways, bunkers and water hazards. Located at 1 Gladstan Drive in Payson, the course is nestled at the base of Loafer Mountain. The Gladstan course presents golfers with unique challenges in a beautiful environment that offers panoramic views of Utah Valley. Golfers will find that they have used every club in their bag after tackling Gladstan.

UTAH VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

JUNE 5-21

Some of Utah Valley’s most beautiful homes will be on display as part of the 2025 Utah Valley Parade of Homes set for June 5-21. Presented by the Utah Valley Home Builders Association, this popular event features more than 20 homes located throughout the valley, with the public invited to purchase tickets that allow them to enter and tour each of the homes. These homes feature the latest in home decor trends, design and technology, providing the perfect opportunity for those considering building a home to view their options. It’s also great for those who just like looking at homes! Tickets can be purchased online.

KIDS MARATHON

JUNE 7

Kids can run, make new friends and celebrate a healthy lifestyle by participating in the Kids Marathon. Through this event, kids can walk, run or roll by wheelchair 25 miles before June 7. They can keep track of their progress on a tracking sheet available for download on the Santaquin City website (scan the QR code). Kids are invited to run the final 1.2 miles of their marathon at a culminating fitness event on June 7 at Santaquin’s Centennial Park and receive a special marathon medal recognizing their hard work. The time for the June 7 event is yet to be determined - check the website for more information.

SPRINGVILLE ART CITY DAYS: June 7-14

GENOLA TOWN DAYS: June 19-21

SPANISH FORK FIESTA DAYS: July 9-31

MAPLETON PIONEER DAYS: July 11-19 SALEM DAYS: August 1-9 PAYSON ONION DAYS: August 29 - September 1

ADVENTURE DAY & GRAN FONDO UTAH

JUNE 7

Adventure Day at Memorial Park, 300 S. Main, Payson, will feature inflatables that the whole family will have fun exploring. There will also be business vendors and food vendors in the park along with activities you can sign up for. Payson City is also excited to host the Gran Fondo Utah event that same day. This bicycling event will feature multiple routes to accommodate riders of varying abilities. The Gran course will tackle the iconic Nebo Loop climb. This event is a new addition to the Gran Fondo National Series lineup of events, which help cyclists earn points toward qualifying for the USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships.

VISIT THE PAYSON TEMPLE

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FAMILY FITNESS DAY

JUNE 7

Santaquin Recreation will present its Family Fitness Day on June 7 in Centennial Park, 300 W. 100 South, Santaquin. This event is open to all ages; get ready to run, make new friends and celebrate a healthy lifestyle. The event will include a 5K race. For more information, check the Santaquin Recreation page.

30 JOIN THE SENIOR CITIZENS

Interested in a painting or woodcarving class, a fitness class, a game of Bingo or simply a lunch with friends? Contact your Senior Citizens Center. There’s one in Payson at 439 W. Utah Avenue (801465-5215.). In Santaquin, the seniors meet at 110 S. Center Street (801-754-1700).

While only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may enter the church’s Payson Utah Temple, the grounds are open to visitors. Located at 1494 S. 930 West, Payson, this nearly 97,000-square-foot structure features a single spire topped with an Angel Moroni statue. The meticulously groomed grounds around the temple are bursting with flowers in the spring and summer and offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

32 FREE FISHING DAY

JUNE 7

Saturday, June 7, is free fishing day in Utah. On this one day, everyone in Utah can fish for free — just remember that all of the state’s other fishing laws and rules still apply. If you want to explore your fishing options within the state, check out the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website. There’s an amazing amount of information there that will help you figure out where to go, what equipment you will need and how to get started.

SPLASH PAD 33

FREE

What better way to cool off in the summer than splashing around in the water? Take the kids to Sunset Trails Park in Santaquin and enjoy the splash pad. While you’re there, the kids can also play on the playground equipment and swings. A large pavilion is available along with smaller picnic pavilions and a rest room.

GO ON A TREASURE HUNT

As soon as the weather warms up in south Utah Valley, people start cleaning out their homes and garages and putting items up for sale, often at extremely cheap prices. Rise early on a Saturday morning and start combing your local neighborhoods for unexpected finds. Don’t miss out! Or, hold your own sale and turn your unwanted goods into cash.

PHOTO CONTEST 35

Santaquin City hosts a photo contest throughout the year, with a winner decided each month. At the end of the year, an overall winner for the year is announced. Entrants can win gift cards or money off their utility bill. Contestants must live in Santaquin or within a 10-mile radius of the Santaquin City limits. For complete submission rules and deadlines, scan the QR code.

‘HERE COMES THE SUN’ ROCK FESTIVAL

JUNE 27 & 28

The “Here Comes the Sun” Rock Festival will be presented on Friday, June 27, from 2:30 to 9:45 p.m. and Saturday, June 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. at Memorial Park, 300 S. Main Street, Payson. This music festival is a production of the Utah Live Concerts Foundation. ULCF’s formal mission is to create better opportunities and affordable family entertainment using our area’s deep reservoir of local talent. In addition to live music, the event will feature food trucks and art vendors.

THEODORE AHLIN PARK 37

East of Interstate 15 and above the city of Santaquin is Theodore L. Ahlin Park. Here, you can find a fishing pond and utilize the on-site fish cleaning station, or you can simply use the walking path around the pond to enjoy both the summer weather and the valley views. There’s a restroom available at this park as well as a disc golf course. Theodore Ahlin Park is located at 1125 S. Pole Canyon Road in Santaquin.

CAMP MAPLE DELL 38

Operated by the Crossroads of the West Council of the Boys Scouts of America, Camp Maple Dell in Payson Canyon offers day camp options for Scouts and other youth. What’s less known is that the camp’s facilities are available for rental for non-Scout (family, school, church and community) groups throughout the year. Whether you are only looking for a few campsites or want to host a family reunion, wedding or a corporate event utilizing Maple Dell’s cabins, lodges and kitchens, they can provide a beautiful, memorable location for your needs.

This photo by Chelsea Rowley was the overall winner for 2024 in the Santaquin Photo Contest.

Payson Canyon has a selection of campgrounds where you can sleep under the stars and enjoy many recreational activities. The campgrounds include:

• MAPLE LAKE CAMPGROUND: Located 5 miles south of Payson on the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. Activities: Fishing, rafting, kayaking, swimming, hiking.

• MAPLE BENCH CAMPGROUND: Also located on the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. Activities: Fishing, rafting, kayaking, hiking.

• PAYSON LAKES CAMPGROUND: A local favorite. Located 12 miles from Payson. This large campground features picnic tables, grills, campfire circles and water spigots at its sites.

PAYSON CITY BAND

The Payson City Band has been a popular attraction for more than 100 years. Its Sunday evening concerts have been presented each summer since 1909 and have become a staple in the community. The band performs every Sunday evening from the week of the 4th of July through Labor Day at Memorial Park, 300 S. Main, Payson, and countless locals and visitors flock to the park to experience this summertime tradition. The concerts start at 8 p.m.

CITY RECREATION PROGRAMS

PETEETNEET MUSEUM & CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

Originally Peteetneet Academy, this building served as an elementary school for nearly 90 years before its transformation into a museum and civic center in the late 1980s. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places soon after. Today, the museum serves to help patrons understand more about Payson’s community story. Exhibits here include an art gallery, a collection of black and white photos taken by a Payson pioneer, a recreated blacksmith shop, a western room, pioneer and Native American artifacts and more. The Peteetneet Museum is located at 10 N. 600 East in Payson. Public tours are available Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Peteetneet museum also offers rental opportunities for various events.

Do you love softball? Baseball? Dance? Soccer? Classes and competitions of all types are offered by the Payson and Santaquin city recreation departments. All ages can find a sport or activity to participate in that’s right for them. Go to the cities’ websites to check out what’s happening and sign up to participate.

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MOUNT NEBO SCENIC BYWAY (NEBO LOOP)

Beginning at the edge of Payson, the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway, also known as the Nebo Loop, answers every nature lover’s dreams. It’s filled with wildlife, valley vistas and wrap-around views of majestic Mt. Nebo.. There are multiple scenic view pullouts. The 35-mile road crosses through the Uinta National Forest and continues to UT-132, where one can either turn west and head to Nephi or east and drive into Sanpete County. Plan on about 90 minutes of travel time without stops.

Photo

FOREBAY AREA

The Forebay area is a large portion of land in the foothills south of Payson that is popular for hiking, mountain biking and other recreational activities. Miles of trails wind through hundreds of acres here, offering outdoor lovers opportunities to explore without going too far from home. Efforts to improve the area and its trails continue, including identifying trailheads, creating signage and proposing potential new trails while still protecting the environment. The Forebay trailhead is located about 3.5 miles up Payson Canyon; a paved parking lot is available there.

LEARN ABOUT LOCAL HISTORY 45

PAYSON SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

JULY 11 & 12

The annual Payson Scottish Festival and Highland Games event celebrates Scottish traditions in all forms: dance, music, food, competition and entertainment. The first festival was organized 40 years ago as part of Payson’s Golden Onion Days, but today the festival is held for two days in early July. Events during the festival include a strongman competition, a bagpipe parade and competition, folk music and dancing performances, and a highland dance competition. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of craft and food booths. This year’s festival will be open from 5 to 9 p.m. on July 11 and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 12.

Within Santaquin’s downtown district are three historical markers commemorating events that occurred in the city’s past. Two are located in Squash Head Park, 50 E. Main Street, and memorialize the bravery of Santaquin’s first pioneers, the Native American chief who assisted them, and the construction of the city’s first Relief Society Hall. The third marker, located at the intersection of 100 West and 100 South, commemorates the DominguezEscalante expedition (which camped nearby in 1776), the work of Lt. John C. Fremont (who visited the area) to study the Great Basin area, and the establishment of a Native American farm in the area in 1855. A tour of these markers can provide visitors with a new appreciation for where they live.

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) are made up of trained volunteers who provide assistance during and following a disaster when first responders’ efforts may be exhausted or delayed. CERT training provides citizens with the basic skills they will need to handle their own needs and then to respond to their community needs in the aftermath of a disaster. The training addresses topics including medical operations, disaster psychology, fire safety, light search and rescue, terrorism and utility control. The training concludes with a mock disaster. CERT training is provided in both Payson and Santaquin. In Payson, contact Payson Fire & Rescue at 801-4655252 for more Information. In Santaquin, contact Chris Lindquist at 801-754-1940.

48 SPRING LAKE

Spring Lake isn’t large, but it’s a great place for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing, and it’s only minutes from the Santaquin and Payson city centers. Don’t have the time or desire to drive all the way up a canyon? There’s some water fun to be had here. You’re most likely to catch rainbow trout in this lake, which is periodically stocked with this variety of fish. Bluebills are also common here. Spring Lake is located in the town of Spring Lake just off UT-198 between Payson and Santaquin. Visitors can enjoy a walking path around the perimeter of the lake. Spring Lake park hours are from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

SHOP HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PAYSON

With its historic architecture and variety of unique, locally owned shops, downtown Payson is a great place to spend time. The historic section of Main Street extends from 100 North to 100 South. There’s specialty shops, barber and salon services, ice cream, restaurants and more. This area recently underwent a multimillion dollar improvement project that upgraded the street’s infrastructure and the road itself as well as the area’s landscaping. A water feature was also added.

HOLLOW PARK TRAIL

The Hollow Park Trail in Payson is a 1.7-mile loop around the park that is popular for road biking, jogging and walking. The trail winds through a natural wooded area within a small valley located between 800 South, 500 East, Strawberry Canal Road and Greenridge Avenue. There’s a playground and picnic tables near 800 South.

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Photo courtesy Payson City

At approximately 1150 South and 600 East in Payson, as one leaves the city and begins driving up the Nebo Loop Road through Payson Canyon, is a turnoff that leads to the trailhead for the Payson “P” hike. This trail is approximately 1 mile (in and out) and takes hikers to the large “P” on Little Mountain above the city. The view from the “P” is spectacular. The hike is generally considered easy, but there is little shade, so you may want to explore it at a cooler time of day.

PAYSON SKATE PARK 52

The Payson Skate Park is located at 600 South and Parkview Drive (next to the Payson Community Pool) and offers concrete bowls and other features as well as an adjacent open lawn area. It’s open to skateboarders daily from 7:30 a.m. to dusk (weather permitting). The use of protective equipment is strongly recommended. No motorized vehicles are allowed.

PAYSON CITY POOL 53

Head to the Payson City Pool to cool off this summer. Located at 655 S. Main Street, this outdoor facility offers a lap pool and a play area for the kids with a lazy river and water slides. Open swim hours and exercise hours are offered, including water aerobics and adult swim classes. The pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Operating hours vary by the day; check the website for hours and information on swim lessons. Half-price swim nights are offered every Monday and Thursday evening.

VOLUNTEER 54

Local schools, churches, community organizations — there are needs everywhere, and volunteers are the answer. Find one that suits you and/or your family and help build the community and your local quality of life. You’ll feel great about yourself, plus, as an added benefit, you’ll meet new friends! If you need ideas for where help might be needed, visit justserve.org or contact your local city offices.

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CHIEFTAIN MUSEUM

Santaquin’s Chieftain Museum invites all groups, families and individuals to enjoy the many displays housed in its historic former elementary school building located at 100 W. 100 South. The museum’s structure was built in 1903 and served as a school for the community until the early 1980s. The museum’s founders, Donna Bott and Florence Lamb, with the support of the community, accomplished their goal to turn the building into a museum, and it was dedicated in 1990. Its history displays include a school room, military room, country store, country kitchen, Native American room and a blacksmith shop. A new “Historic Pipeline” exhibit demonstrates how water was brought down Santaquin Canyon for early pioneer use.

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Payson and Santaquin cities offer libraries for residents where they can not only check out books but also participate in a wide variety of activities ranging from book clubs and children’s story times to craft and family game nights. Payson’s library is located at 66 S. Main Street; Santaquin’s library is located at 20 W. 100 South.

RESEARCH YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY

The Payson Utah FamilySearch Center and the Santaquin Utah FamilySearch Center are open to anyone interested in learning more about their family history. Both centers are staffed by trained volunteers who are available to provide assistance. The center’s resources are available free of charge and include a variety of premium family history software as well as computer workstations and

photo scanners. Classes are also offered regularly on a wide variety of topics. The Payson center is located at 955 W. 450 South and the Santaquin center is located at 45 S. 500 West.

Payson Library Santaquin Library

Payson Family Search

Santaquin Family Search

HILLMAN RECREATION COMPLEX

With multiple baseball fields, softball fields and soccer fields, Gene Hillman Recreation Complex in Payson will be filled with sporting action throughout the summer. Drop by and catch a game, or join a city league and play here! It’s located just east of Payson High School and just south of the Payson Community Pool and Constitution Park.

DRY CREEK TRAIL

Dry Creek runs through Payson City, and next to it is a paved walking and jogging path known as Dry Creek Trail. The trail is also popular for road biking. It connects several parks, including Jesse Taylor Park, Maples Park, Hidden Cove Park and Dry Mountain Park. Despite its name, Dry Creek has water flowing in it much of the year, and there are wooded areas near the trail in some places. It is considered an easy trail and, despite its popularity, one can enjoy seclusion at certain times of day.

DOG PARK 60

Take Rover to the Dog Park! Santaquin City offers a selection of parks, including one designed for fourlegged furry friends. The Dog Park at 1783 Sawtooth Blvd. features an enclosed offleash area, benches and grassy and nograss areas.

ROWLEY’S RED BARN 61

Built on a family-owned and operated fruit farm, Rowley’s Red Barn is located on the southern end of Santaquin. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of orchards, the iconic red barn boasts an ice cream counter, fudge and pastry display and specialty packaged foods, including chocolate-covered fruits, popcorn, nuts and fruit butters. Farm-fresh produce varies depending on the season; the possibilities include fresh apples, peaches, cherries, pears and more. The Red Barn is located at 901 S. 300 West, Santaquin

Photo courtesy Payson City

Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, has swept the nation and is growing in popularity internationally. Santaquin has pickleball courts available to the public at Harvest View Sports Complex, 1400 S. Harvest View Drive. In Payson, pickleball courts can be found in Memorial Park, 300 S. Main Street, and at Mt. Nebo Junior High School, 851 W. 450 South.

HARVEST VIEW SPORTS COMPLEX

The Harvest View Sports Complex at 1400 S. Harvest View Drive in Santaquin features multiple grassy sports fields as well as high-quality lighting for nighttime games. There’s also multiple pickleball courts and restrooms, all with a beautiful view of the nearby mountain peaks. It’s a perfect place to spend a warm summer evening watching the game or even playing in one.

SANTAQUIN ORCHARD DAYS 65

JULY 26 - AUGUST 2

64 TAKE A WALKING HISTORY TOUR

Several historical markers are scattered within walking distance of each other in Payson’s downtown area. Three of them are found in Memorial Park: the Pioneer Industry marker, which notes early structures built in the area; the City Hall marker, which includes a bell once rung as a curfew signal for local children; and the Dominguez y Escalante Expedition marker, which commemorates the arrival of a party of Spanish explorers into Utah Valley in 1776. Within half a mile of the park are several other historical markers, including two noting the locations of the corners of the Payson pioneer fort and one located near the Payson City Building which is accompanied by a pioneer log cabin built in 1863.

Each summer, Santaquin City hosts Orchard Days, a celebration that brings the city’s residents together to celebrate their community’s heritage. Named after the area’s plentiful orchards, the celebration includes many different events for all ages, such as the Little Buck-A-Roo Rodeo at the Santaquin Rodeo Arena, a car show, concerts in the park, a movie night and a quilt show. The Family Night event offers activities for every member of the family, including a children’s parade, food and craft vendors and musical entertainment. For the sports enthusiast, there are a variety of athletic events, including the Home Run Derby, a 5K run and the Rocky Mountain Pro Rodeo Association Rodeo.

66 SPRING LAKE TROUT FARM

At Spring Lake Trout Farm, you can enjoy year-round fishing. Cost is $8.50 per pound, and that includes all the equipment and bait you need. They’ll even clean and fillet the fish at no extra charge. Catch and release is also available, and groups can schedule times to fish together. Spring Lake Trout Farm is located at 3409 W. 12300 South in Payson.

SANTAQUIN ORCHARD DAYS RODEO

AUGUST 1 & 2

The RMPRA Orchard Days Rodeo is held on the final two nights of the Orchard Days celebration at the Santaquin Rodeo Arena, 200 S. 400 West. This rodeo has won the RMPRA Rodeo of the Year award multiple times and will feature all your favorite rodeo events, including bareback riding, steer wrestling and bull riding. Tickets can be purchased online and seating is general admission on the lawn beside the arena.

UTAH COUNTY FAIR

JULY 31, AUGUST 1 & 2

The Utah County Fair offers three days full of fun! Enter your garden produce or homemade project in the Open Class and see if you can win a blue ribbon. Then enjoy all the fair’s activities and events; entry into the fair is free. Craft and product vendors offer their wares; there’s games, activities and inflatables for kids; the Lego Display fascinates adults and kids alike; and there’s musical entertainment ongoing throughout the three-day event. Get some food at the Food Court and attend one of the fair’s evening events: the Western Night Rodeo, the Monster Trucks show or the legendary Demolition Derby. Admission to the fair is free; the rodeo is also free of charge. Tickets for the Monster Trucks and Demolition Derby events may be purchased at sfcitytix.com beginning June 1. Volunteers are needed to help conduct fair events; visit the fair website to sign up.

WESTERN NIGHT RODEO 69

MONSTER TRUCKS 70

AUGUST 1

Giant monster trucks will tear up the dirt, fly through the air and provide heartpounding excitement inside the Spanish Fork Fairgrounds Arena on Friday, Aug. 1, as part of the Utah County Fair. The event begins at 7 p.m. and the arena is located at 475 S. Main St., Spanish Fork. Tickets for this popular annual event will go on sale June 1 at sfcitytix.com.

DEMOLITION DERBY 71

JULY 31

The Western Night Rodeo is held every year on the Thursday night of the Utah County Fair. Cowboys and cowgirls compete in all your favorite rodeo events during this action-packed event. The best part? Admission is free! The rodeo begins at 7 p.m. in the main arena at the Spanish Fork Fairgrounds, 475 S. Main St., Spanish Fork. Seating is first come, first served.

AUGUST 2

The Demolition Derby held as part of the Utah County Fair is one of the most popular annual events in the county. It sells out every year. With cars crashing, wheels spinning and the crowd cheering those vehicles that last the longest, it’s easy to see why so many people are attracted to this exciting event!

The Demolition Derby begins at 7 p.m. Aug. 2 in the Spanish Fork Fairgrounds Arena, 475 S. Main St., Spanish Fork. Tickets for the derby will go on sale June 1 at sfcitytix.com; don’t wait to purchase yours, or you might miss out on the fun.

72 PAYSON LAKES

About 11 miles up Payson Canyon are McClelland Lake, Box Lake and Big East Lake, which are collectively known as Payson Lakes. These lakes offers a huge variety of recreational opportunities ranging from fishing to swimming, boating, hiking, picnicking and more. Big East Lake, the largest of the three lakes, has a walking path, picnic tables and a beach for swimmers to enjoy. All of it happens in the midst of beautiful mountain peaks.

SOUTH COUNTY LANES

Family-owned and -operated South County Lanes offers bowling seven days a week. Reserve a lane online for your family or get all your closest friends together and book a party! There’s bowling leagues available as well. The fun isn’t limited to bowling; South County Lanes also has a laser tag arena, an arcade, pool tables and a snack bar and grill.

ATTEND A CITY COUNCIL MEETING 74

Attending a city council meeting is one of the best ways to learn about your city’s activities and share your views with your elected officials. The Payson City Council meets on the first and third Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Payson City Building, 439 W. Utah Ave. Santaquin City Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. at the Santaquin City Offices, 110 S. Center Street.

SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL

AUGUST

During August, Rowley’s Red Barn invites the public to visit its sunflower patch and enjoy the beauty of hundreds of blooming sunflowers. There are many shades of sunflower blooms! The patch is open Monday through Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. (check the website for exact dates). Visit the Red Barn first for directions or to catch a ride on a wagon to the sunflower field. Admission is $10 per person for ages 3 and older. Sunflower blooms are also for sale. You may want to bring a water bottle, and don’t forget your camera.

PAYSON SALMON SUPPER 76

AUGUST 1

Each year, thousands of people converge on Payson’s Memorial Park with one goal: eat salmon. The Payson Salmon Supper is a long-standing tradition that began in 1954 after a local church leader visited Alaska and brought back salmon for a small church event. The event continued annually, attracting more people each year. Eventually, it became a fundraiser for the leader’s Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints ward. When the event became too popular to manage, church leaders asked Payson City officials to take charge of it. Now, the city buys nearly 5,000 pounds of farm-fed salmon from a company in Alaska and volunteers cook the fish over large open-air grills using dried fruit wood for fuel. The dinner also features corn on the cob, a baked potato, salad, a roll and a cookie. There will also be a souvenir booth and entertainment throughout the evening. All the money raised goes to benefit the city’s parks and events. Tickets will go on sale at the beginning of June on the city’s website. Get tickets early; this event sells out.

Payson City Coucil

Santaquin City Council

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! FUN

AUGUST 21SEPTEMBER 1

Payson Community Theatre will present “Newsies: The Musical” Aug. 21 through Sept. 1 at Salem Hills High School, 150 Skyhawk Blvd., Salem. This stage adaptation of the Disney 1992 film won two Tony Awards, including one for Best Original Score. It tells the story of young newspaper sellers, or “newsies,” working in New York City in 1899.

JOIN A COMMUNITY SYMPHONY 78

The Nebo Philharmonic Orchestra is a community performing group with no formal auditions. If you play an instrument — whether you’re a music teacher, a hobbyist, an experienced teenager (age 16+) or someone who hasn’t had a chance to play in years — you can join this group (if there are positions available). Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Salem Community Center, 151 W. 300 South. Visit the symphony’s website (nebophil.org) to see which instruments are needed and for more information.

A COUNTRY FARM 79

CENTENNIAL PARK 80

Santaquin’s Centennial Park is a great place to spend an afternoon or even all day outside. There’s playground equipment, a sand volleyball pit, a basketball court, open grassy areas and restrooms. A pavilion on site may be used if not already reserved (reservations can be made on the city website). The park is located at 300 W. 100 South.

A Country Farm is a small, family-owned working farm in Payson that offers a fun fall destination featuring a pumpkin patch, farm field trips and a farm fresh market each year during the month of October. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hayrides, a petting zoo, feeding the animals, make it/ take it crafts and more. The farm is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is free; activities cost between 50 cents and $5 per person. The market includes items such as pumpkins, winter squash, gourds, seasonal decor, sunflower heads and raw honey. The farm is located at 4058 W. 9600 South, Payson.

LICENSE YOUR PET

The South Utah Valley Animal Shelter offers pet licensing clinics at various locations in southern Utah County throughout the year. These events include an opportunity to have your pet vaccinated. To obtain a Utah County Animal License, your pet must be at least four months of age and have a current rabies vaccination. You are required to license your pet within 30 days of acquiring the new animal or moving into Utah County. To see a list of these licensing clinics and register to participate, visit the South Utah Valley Animal Shelter webpage.

PAYSON GOLDEN ONION DAYS

AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 1

Payson City’s annual celebration Golden Onion Days is held each year on Labor Day weekend and includes events such as concerts, a carnival, a baby contest, a car show, 5K and 10K races, a parade, fireworks, food, and merchandise vendors. This annual celebration was first held in 1929 as an opportunity for residents and former residents to renew old friendships and make new ones. Originally known as the Onion Harvest and Homecoming, the event honored Payson’s status as an agricultural district and outstanding producer of onions. The celebration was later renamed Payson City Golden Onion Days, and that is the name that remains to this day.

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER

Throughout September and into October, locals have the opportunity to pick their own autumn fruits right off the trees as part of Rowley’s Red Barn’s Harvest Festival & Pick Your Own event. Each Friday and Saturday between 3:30 and 9:30 p.m. (check the website for exact dates), visitors can check in at a booth across the road from the barn and employees will guide you to the different varieties of apple available on the farm. Bags and boxes will be available. Admission is free; you only pay for the fruit you pick.

In the past 90 days if you have been the driver or passenger in an automobile collision you can redeem this gift card for a FREE 50 Minute Massage! Call today to schedule.

SUPPORT LOCAL STUDENTS

When fall is in the air, it’s time for football. For a great evening out, attend your local high school’s football game and cheer them to victory. As the football season wraps up, however, what is one to do? The activities continue throughout the year, with students showcasing their talents in a variety of sporting events, plays, concerts and more. Visit the websites of your local schools to check out their calendars and learn what games, performances and activities are open to the public.

FESTIVAL LATINO DE PAYSON

SEPTEMBER 20

Payson City’s sixth annual Latino cultural celebration, Festival Latino de Payson, will be held Saturday, Sept 20. This will be a free event for the community and will feature local musicians and dancers from many Latin American countries. The festival will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 9 p.m. at the Peteetneet Amphitheatre, 10 N. 600 East, Payson. There will be food and merchandise vendors at the event as well.

GLEN RAY’S CORN MAZE 86

Glen Ray’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch at 1750 W. 8000 South, Spanish Fork, offers a 7.5-acre corn maze, a pumpkin patch and tons of other activities for kids and families each October. Try out giant yard games, take a ride on the cow train, race rubber ducks, climb the straw bale pyramid and enjoy some yummy treats at the concessions stand. All these activities are offered by a family that has been farming in the area for more than 150 years and over six generations.

FIELD OF FRIGHT 87

This haunted attraction is not for the faint of heart. Each year during the Halloween season, the undead souls of the farm emerge, waiting in the shadows for unsuspecting passersby to wander in. They might come after you when you least expect it! The Field of Fright is presented during the Halloween season as part of Glen Ray’s Corn Maze at 1750 W. 8000 South, Spanish Fork. Tickets may be purchased online.

SEPTEMBER 22-27

Each year, beautiful quilts are exhibited at the Peteetneet Museum, 10 N. 600 East, Payson, as part of the Payson Quilt Show. Quilters of all ages are invited to submit their works to be part of this show. Come and see these colorful works of art by talented quilters and take part in the mystery quilt class, home tour, trunk show and quilters yard sale. The show is free to view, but there is a small fee for those who want to enter their quilts. For more information and to sign up, go to paysonquiltshow.com.

HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS 91

FALL FESTIVAL

Rowley’s Red Barn in Santaquin offers its Fall Festival, including wagon rides to the “Back Forty,” from late September through October. A tractor-pulled wagon ride takes visitors through the fruit farm and the Back Forty area. Visitors can also enjoy three different corn mazes, apple cannons, zip lines, barnyard bouncers and a corn pit. Visit with the animals too! Fall doesn’t get more fun than this. The Red Barn is located at 901 S. 300 West, Santaquin.

SPOOKY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM 90

Each year in late October as part of the Halloween season, Santaquin’s Chieftain Museum presents its Spooky Night at the Museum event. All are invited to don their spookiest costumes and and walk through the museum, where they can enjoy Halloween decor and collect treats and prizes. Visitors then exit through the Senior Center where games can be played and concessions purchased. There is a small admission fee. The museum is located at 100 W. 100 South. For this year’s dates and to register to attend, visit santaquin.gov/ museum or scan the QR code.

Each month, Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry in Spanish Fork serves more than 1,000 families in south Utah County. Located at 45 E. 100 North, Tabitha’s Way accepts donations of food, and you can also participate as a volunteer. Typically, volunteers perform tasks such as handing out food to clients, preparing the pantry to serve clients, sorting food, cleaning and organizing, helping with special events and serving on committees. For information about how to donate food or conduct a food drive, or to learn more about volunteering, contact the pantry by emailing info@tabithasway.org or call 801-709-8573 during business hours (Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

APPLE HARVEST RUN 92

OCTOBER 4

This race will have participants running through Santaquin orchards during harvest time. The Apple Harvest Run starts at Rowley’s Red Barn, 901 S. 300 West, Santaqyin and proceeds along a hardpacked dirt road in nearby apple and cherry orchards. Participants can select a 1-mile, a 5K or a 10K race. Registration may be done online at runsignup.com or by scanning the QR code.

BIG BAND CONCERT 93

OCTOBER 24

Payson City will host its annual Big Band Concert on Friday, Oct. 24, at 7 p..m. at the Peteetneet Museum, 10 N. 600 East. Come in costume and dance the night away while listening to a live big band. Admission is free. This is a fun family-friendly event.

SANTAQUIN GRAND TRUNK OR TREAT

OCTOBER 31

Each year on Halloween, Santaquin offers its Grand Trunk or Treat event at Centennial Park, 300 W. 100 South. Come dressed in your Halloween costume and collect candy at various community booths. Businesses may sign up to hand out candy; to sign up, contact the city recreation office.

NEBO HOLIDAY CHORUS & ORCHESTRA

The Nebo Holiday Chorus & Orchestra was established by residents of Spanish Fork to promote the performing arts and provide quality performances of large choral works free of charge for the southern Utah community. Each Christmas season, the NHCO brings together more than 100 choir members and instrumental performers to present Handel’s “Messiah.” Rehearsals take place from the end of October through the middle of December. Membership in the chorus and orchestra is open to auditioned participants living within the Nebo School District area of southern Utah County. Community members ages 16 and older are encouraged to audition. The auditions will be held in October; visit the NHCO website for more details.

NOVEMBER 4

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. All the information you need to register, learn how to vote and see election results can be found at vote.utahcounty.gov. Voter registration is open to citizens of the United States and those who have been residents of Utah for at least 30 days prior to Election Day. Registration can be completed online, by mail or in person.

97 SANTA DASH

98 PETEETNEET CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE & TRAIN SHOW

NOVEMBER 28

The annual Santa Dash will have you running through the heart of Payson. The dash is a 1-mile run/walk that ends at Peteetneet Museum where participants can enjoy hot chocolate and a doughnut and sing Christmas carols while waiting for the Christmas lights to be turned on. Running outdoors in December not your thing? Come and enjoy the Christmas lighting. The dash begins at 4 p.m.; entry fee is $8. The first 100 people receive a Santa hat.

DECEMBER 5 & 6

Come and see the Peteetneet Museum in Payson decorated in all its Christmas glory. Vendors will be tucked away in every room, adding lights, texture and a yummy Christmas fragrance throughout the building. While there, visitors can enjoy the annual miniature train show and other wonderful entertainment in the auditorium. Don’t forget to pick up a delicious treat before you leave! This year’s Peteetneet Christmas Boutique will be held Friday, Dec. 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Peteetneet Museum is located at 10 N. 600 East, Payson. Admission to the boutique and

99 HOLLY DAYS

DECEMBER

In early December, Santaquin presents a multi-day event known as Holly Days. These days are full of activities such as live entertainment, craft and goodie booths, outdoor carriage rides, carolers, a drone show, reindeer and visits with Santa himself. Check the city website for details.

The Payson Community Creche is an annual event that includes musical performances, an exhibit of hundreds of tabletop Nativity scenes, caroling and an outdoor display. The events happen at various locations; check the Facebook page for details.

Watching movies at home is fine, but there’s nothing like actually going to the movie theater and watching a flick with a giant tub of popcorn. It’s all about the experience, and Stadium Cinemas in Payson offers it every day. You can even rent an entire theater and enjoy the show with dozens of your closest friends!