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City Cast Salt Lake

Keep It Local

Keep It Local by City Cast Salt Lake features spotlights on local businesses we love and personal, curated, and neighborly recommendations that will help you live your best Salt Lake life right now. So, if you’re ready to ditch the national chains, e-commerce giants, and big box stores,

sign up now for the new weekly newsletter from City Cast Salt Lake.

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Salt Lake

Shelby Hintze

You may already be seeing Christmas decorations creeping onto the shelves at your favorite big-box stores, but thankfully, local retailers are giving Halloween the attention it deserves. From spooky home decor and creepy collectibles to vintage finds and delightfully weird odds and ends, these local shops are keeping the spirit of Halloween alive … at least until Christmas stuff inevitably takes over.

While Spirit Halloweens are taking over strip malls across the country, 

 has your spooky decor on lock all year long! This South Salt Lake shop specializes in horror, oddities, spooky home decor, and collectibles. The shop started when Landrie Miller wanted to 

 in her house but couldn’t find macabre decor outside of Halloween season. And Spoox Bootique was born, just like Rosemary’s Baby.

And if you’d like your spooky season purchases to not be limited to decor, but also lean towards … the practical, check out 

 for your metaphysical supplies, classes, and events year-round.

For Halloween decor with the oh-so-important touch of nostalgia, check out 

Bonus! Used stuff is more likely to be haunted, too!

 not only has adorable Halloween decor, books, and clothes, but also a 

 is really fun. I’m probably going to add these 

 to my growing candle collection. And while you’re at it, get some 

 at the candy counter and your flu shot at the pharmacy (walk-ins welcome before 5 p.m.)!

And if you’re ready to become the person with the incredible Halloween village that grows every year, or the friend with the figurine collection that takes up the whole mantle, check out 

. Pro tip: Start collecting something now so all your friends and family know what to get you for gifts. It’s a public service, really.

From spooky home decor and creepy collectibles to vintage finds and delightfully weird odds and ends, these local shops are keeping the spirit of Halloween alive.

Spooky Season Starts at these Salt Lake City Shops

Spooky Season Starts at These Local Shops

I have a hard time buying plants. I mean, I do it — and I do plenty of it — but I always get caught up on questions like, “What will this look like once all the flowers are gone?” and “How big does this actually get?”

To get answers to those questions, and to find inspiration, I love visiting the many planned gardens and demonstration gardens around Utah. They’re a great way to see native and water-wise plants in action. Many gardens also offer classes and workshops and host tours led by gardening experts.

Plus, fall is the PERFECT time to get outdoors post-heat, pre-cold.

 include Water Conservation Garden, Herb Garden, Medicinal Garden, and Four Seasons Garden.

 covering gardening, horticulture, nature and ecology, wellness, and creative activities.

 led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

 demonstrates drought-tolerant plants and hydrozoning, showing you plants that need no supplemental watering, all the way up to plants that need a shower a couple times a week.

Perennial Water-wise Garden showcases low-water perennials that provide color throughout the growing seasons.

Powerline Arboretum features trees appropriate for planting under or near power lines — a helpful resource if you’re trying to avoid the classic “oops, this tree got enormous” problem.

 from Master Gardeners and a horticulturist.

Jordan Valley Water Conservation Garden Park

 featuring Utah-friendly plants, pathways, and educational exhibits.

More than 1,000 water-wise plants in the 

, with information about water needs, maintenance, and bloom seasons.

 covering water-efficient landscaping, irrigation, plants, and conservation.

Plant labels throughout the garden, making it easy to identify plants you might want to use in your own yard.

Utah's Best Fall Gardens To Visit

Get Inspired by Fall Gardens

When it comes to gardening, we usually think about spring planting. But here’s a little secret: Many of the best spring plants were actually planted in the fall. Cooler temperatures give plants time to develop strong, healthy root systems before winter, so they’re more established — and often need less water — when spring arrives.

The nurseries below have knowledgeable staff who can help you figure out what to plant, when to plant it, and where it will thrive.

Right now at Millcreek Gardens, you can find markdowns on trees while supplies last. We’re talking 30% to 50% off fruit trees, 20% off shade and flowering trees, and 40% off dogwoods. You’ll also find perennials marked down.

Take it from me. The only tree I’ve had die was one I planted in the spring, while all of my fall-planted trees are thriving. Don’t be like me. Plant your trees now.

⏳ Best Deal for the Time-Strapped Gardener: 

Have you ever looked at a plant at a nursery and thought, “That’s lovely, but it’s not going to fit in my Honda Civic”? Glover Nursery has you covered.

The family-owned nursery has a huge selection of trees, shrubs, and perennials. With certain minimum purchases and plant sizes, they’ll even 

. I did this with one tree, and it was so worth it.

For fall plants, seasonal décor, and a little gardening inspiration, check out Sun River Gardens in Orem. This garden center and home décor powerhouse has some of the best 

 for adding a little fall color to your porch right now.

I also love getting pumpkins here because of the creative displays they put together. And, really, it’s all about the merchandising.

🌿 Best Place for a Little Bit of Everything: 

Red Butte Garden Fall Bulb and Plant Sale

Red Butte Garden’s Fall Bulb & Native Plant Sale runs Sept. 25-26. You’ll find 

, with plenty of options suited to Utah’s climate.

The sale will be at the Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre, and admission is free.

And if you have any other questions about where to even start planning your water-wise yard, friend of the pod 

YardFarmer has a great list of free resources

Plant Now: Your Utah Garden’s Fall 2026 Shopping Guide

Plant Now: Your Utah Garden’s Fall Shopping Guide

Do you read every Keep It Local newsletter? We’ve made lots of Hispanic-owned business recommendations over the past few months, as well as small businesses highlighting Hispanic makers. Let’s see how well you’re paying attention. (Hint: You can find all the answers in the 

Ready to play?

Test Your Salt Lake Knowledge

Utah is home to Hispanic- and Latino-owned businesses offering everything from art and music to groceries and fitness classes. So this Hispanic Heritage Month, skip the generic “celebrate diversity” post and actually go spend some money with a local business. Your wallet doesn’t have a language barrier.

Find your new favorite artist, maker, or market

, an Ogden-based market created by first-generation Hispanic entrepreneur Jeanette Castel. The market was founded to give Hispanic and Latino small-business owners a place to showcase their products, share their stories, and connect with the community. The next market is for 

Looking for something to hang on your wall, give as a gift, or just admire? Check out 

. I first saw Esther Merino’s work at Craft Lake City several years ago and have to snag a piece every time I see it! Esther uses her textile and fiber art largely to depict the beauty and strength of Peruvian women. She has been featured in several shows at JKR Gallery in Provo over the last few years, including the 

 brings Mexican American culture and community to life through bold, colorful murals. Founded by artists Miguel Galaz, Alan Ochoa, and Luis Novoa, the collective uses nature, patterns, and calligraphy to create public art that celebrates the cultures and stories woven into Utah communities. You can appreciate their 

 … and maybe even hire them to create one for your business!

, founded by Eli Madrigal, now has 10 locations across Utah. All the stores have different offerings, but I love the pineapple cutting machine at my location in Salt Lake City. The butcher will also fry up a whole fish for you to serve at home if you’re intimidated by hot oil. Not me, but maybe you are. And I find the prices, on produce especially, to be some of the best in the city.

 focuses on traditional dances from every region of Mexico. They offer classes for 

 for adults with some experience. And you can see the team perform at events all over the state.

Looking for a workout that feels more like a party than a punishment? Latina- and queer-owned 

 is built around movement, music and community. The Salt Lake City studio aims to make everyone feel seen and welcome, regardless of experience or fitness level. Expect high-energy cycling, themed rides, Latin-inspired music, and a community where you can show up exactly as you are.

Shop at These Hispanic-owned Businesses in Utah

Hispanic Heritage Month Is a Great Excuse to Shop Local

While the peach harvest may look a little different this year, local restaurants are still embracing the season, featuring the beloved stone fruit in a variety of menu offerings. Here are some of the treats you need to try before we go full pumpkin spice.

According to the food influencers on Instagram, the most anticipated peach treat is the 

 in Highland. Frozen custard, fresh Highland Garden peaches, a maple cream syrup, and homemade streuseltopping. Yeah, sign me up.

There’s always a debate on what makes a milkshake a milkshake. Can you drink it through a straw or does it need to be eaten with a spoon? Either way, adding peaches is a must. Check out the 

 in Spanish Fork and Orem. Or if you’d rather use a spoon, 

If you’re looking for a baked good, two bakery staples are getting the peach treatment. The gluten-free 

 is usually topped with raspberries but will feature peaches in September. And the 

 features strawberries, peaches, honey, and goat cheese. At 

 with cinnamon, homemade crumble, a Biscoff cookie crust, and fresh whipped cream.

 makes peaches the star of every course. You can order a peach-centered appetizer, main, dessert, or get all three as part of a prix-fixe menu. Peaches and burrata to start, a grilled pork chop with caramelized peaches and a bourbon jus, finished with a thyme-roasted peaches crumble.

The Best Peach Treats in Utah

Get Your Peach Fix With These Treats

As summer winds down, temperatures drop and we finally start spending a little more time indoors, so fresh produce might not be top of mind. But don’t put away your farmers market tote just yet.

Late September and early October are some of the best times to shop for locally grown Utah produce. The summer favorites may be fading, but they’re making room for crisp apples, hearty root vegetables, and the squashes that practically beg to become soup.

Depending on where you shop and how the growing season shakes out, you’ll find plenty of Utah-grown produce, including:

Winter squash, including butternut, delicata, and spaghetti squash

Shopping at farmers markets keeps money in the hands of local growers while giving you a chance to eat what’s actually in season.

Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.Open through Oct. 11

Thursdays, 4-8 p.m., at Bountiful Town SquareThe 2026 market runs through Oct. 15 and accepts SNAP/EBT, including through Double Up Food Bucks Utah and Produce Rx.

Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.Open through October 17

Saturdays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.The market's fall season continues into Oct. 24, with a winter market returning Nov. 15 at 209 E. 500 South.

Did we miss your favorite market? Do you have a can’t-miss vendor? Let us know and we might include it in future City Cast Salt Lake newsletters!

Email me!

Fresh Produce and Farmers Markets For Fall in Utah

Fresh Utah Produce Isn’t Done Yet

 and sentenced to death for murder in Utah. His trial and subsequent death 

So, it’s fair to say Utah’s relationship with organized labor has been … complicated.

Utah is a right-to-work state, meaning workers cannot be required to join or financially support a union as a condition of employment. That can make organizing more difficult, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen.

When unions successfully negotiate better standards, they can help raise expectations for wages and working conditions across an industry. Better wages mean workers have more money to spend locally, while better benefits and greater job stability can make it easier for people to build lives and stay in their communities.

This Labor Day, here are some ways you can support organized local labor with your money and attention.

Several smaller groups of employees in Utah have joined larger, national unions.

 joined the local Teamsters 222. Winco is a local-ish grocery chain (the first location was in Boise) and is personally my favorite grocery store. Knowing the employees are able to collectively bargain makes me love it even more. And while you’re at it, here’s 

Utah ski resort employees paved the way for other mountain resort workers. In 2015, 

 joined the Communications Workers of America, and in 2022, Park City lift mechanics and electricians voted to unionize alongside them. Today, they're part of 

. In Utah, the union represents more than 200 Park City ski patrollers, roughly 50 lift mechanics and electricians, as well as ski patrollers at 

Utah Building and Trades for Your Next Project

 means supporting skilled workers, fair wages, safer workplaces, and quality training, while investing your money in businesses that help strengthen Utah’s workforce and local economy. Save this list for your next project.

IBEW 354 represents 3,000 electrical workers in Utah and has a 

plumbers, pipefitters, and HVAC specialists

Utah Union Businesses and Workers to Support Labor Day 2026

Your Labor Day To-Do List: Support Utah Workers

unionized city employees who keep our libraries

 running? Make sure you have a library card!

September is National City Library Card Signup Month. If you don’t have a library card already, that’s OK. It’s easy to 

. Remember, you will need ID and a piece of mail, a check, a paystub, etc. to prove you are a Salt Lake City or County resident. (You can still pay $80 a year if you live outside Salt Lake County but want the perks!)

All this month, if you show your Salt Lake library card, you can get discounts at local businesses like:

, my personal favorite place to get a classic combination plate, a crispy Diet Coke, and to try all the different salsas at the salsa bar before realizing I can only handle the mild.

 to stock up on all the witchy, cozy, fall romances. “

, especially since I keep forgetting to sign up for my free birthday cake! I definitely want to give the new Galactic Brownie a try.

. I’ve taken several watercolor classes there and want to try the 

other perks of having a Salt Lake City Library card

 featuring City Library Signup Month ambassador, Laufey, from the American Library Association!

Local Discounts With Your Salt Lake City Library Card 2026

Your Library Card Is More Powerful Than You Think

After Utah's thrilling wins in the newest MICHELIN travel guide region, we’re holding out hope that another Utah restaurant will take home a star in the future.

Hell’s Backbone Grill is a perfect example of the MICHELIN criteria — innovative, consistent, sustainable, and well worth the trip.

If you know me IRL or have gathered anything from reading this newsletter, I’m an indoor cat. So I’m not making many trips to Southern Utah for hikes or camping. That said, I WOULD make a trip just for 

The Boulder, Utah, restaurant is a longtime destination for farm-to-table dining, with offerings made from ingredients grown at its own 

 or from local suppliers. The menu changes with the seasons, so you'll have a new experience with each trip.

The restaurant has been serving diners in the heart of southern Utah since 2000, when chefs Jen Castle and Blake Spalding decided to build a restaurant around their shared commitment to food, community, and sustainability.

Over the years, it has become part of Boulder’s community fabric and an advocate for the landscapes surrounding it. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is woven into its operations, and Castle and Spalding became 

vocal advocates for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

. Their work has earned national attention, including multiple James Beard Award nominations.

In 2025, after 25 years of renting the property, Castle, Spalding, and longtime team members purchased the Boulder Mountain Lodge and restaurant, giving this beloved Utah institution a new chapter.

Black powder biscuits (and buying mixes to give as gifts), Three Sisters posole, butter dipped farm radishes, trout ‘n herbs, summer buttermilk pie.