For small businesses, it’s not always about selling you something. Sometimes, the goal is to also bring people together — through classes, book readings, seasonal celebrations, and events that turn strangers into regulars. (Of course, if you want to spend a little money while you’re there, no one’s going to complain.)
Whether you’re a corporate baddie (or a corporate saddie) looking for an excuse to leave the house, a parent trying to keep the kids entertained over fall break, or just someone who thinks autumn is best spent out in the community, Salt Lake businesses have plenty going on. Here’s what to add to your weekend agenda.
Family-Friendly Fall Agenda
- Make a day of the Salt Lake Book Festival. On Saturday, Oct. 17, The Gateway will host a full day of author conversations, panels, signings, and local vendors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There’s also a dedicated kids’ stage and storytimes, like with the author of “How to Escape a Playdate.” General admission is free, though select events require tickets. I am going to stock up on books from PaperPie for my nieces.
- Create a tradition at The Kinlands. This is one of the most aesthetic pumpkin patches in the valley. Even if you and the kids have already been to a pumpkin patch this season, run them ragged here anyway and snap cute pictures while you’re at it. Plus, the swings, bean pool, and slides are free with $2 wagon rides, seven days a week. P.S. Check out the autumn shoppe for great home decor, local foodstuffs, and see if you can get some love from the shop cat!
- Give the haunted house a test run. New this year, the award-winning Nightmare on 13th is offering a Day Haunt experience for older kids or wimpy adults (guilty). Go trick-or-treating through the haunted house: Same decor and lighting as the main attraction, but nothing is jumping out at you.
Debauchery for Students, Singles, and DINKs
- Start with books, stay for the party. The Salt Lake Book Festival is for grown-ups, too. Browse independent vendors, catch an author conversation, or make Friday night’s Prologue at the Salt Lake City Public Library your literary pregame. The kickoff includes an adult spelling bee and a rooftop party with drinks, dancing, and authors.
- Step into Something Wicked’s Halloween pop-up at Studio at Soundwell, featuring vintage horror movie decor, spooky cocktails, themed bites, DJs, tarot, and weekly scary-oke. Plus, check out the daytime mini-broom-making event!
- Bring your sense of humor to Crone’s Hollow for BYOC Comedy: Bring Your Own Cauldron, featuring local comedians, grown-up jokes, and magical mischief. The show is free, but there’s a suggested donation for the performers.
