austin

Austin

chicago

Chicago

denver

Denver

lasvegas

Las Vegas

madison

Madison

nashville

Nashville

philly

Philly

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

portland

Portland

saltlake

Salt Lake

seattle

Seattle

twincities

Twin Cities

We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Salt Lake

Shelby Hintze

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?

Ivana Martinez

September is about as dog-friendly as it gets, with events all month long. Here are some places you should take your furry friend.

Who said Oktoberfest was just for the humans? Bring your pup to the festival Sept. 5-7 at Snowbasin Resort. Get there early: The first 50 dogs will get a free bandana. Dogs must be on leashes.

Take your dog out to the ballgame Sept. 9 to see the Salt Lake Bees play at The Ballpark at America First Square. Expect pet-friendly amenities and other dog lovers.

As pool season comes to an end, dogs all over the valley will get to take a dip Sept. 12. Find a pool or splash pad near you:

Maybe you’re looking for a buddy for your dog? On Sept. 11 and 12 at Wheeler Farm, there will be adoptions, a pet psychic, food trucks, and a chance to have your photo professionally taken.

Can’t take your dog anywhere because they have behavioral issues? Same. But the Humane Society of Utah has a cool two-part training starting Sept. 26 to address some of those pesky triggers. Hopefully, it'll give you and your pup the confidence to venture out more.

Here's where you should take your furry friend this September in Utah. 

Best Places To Take Your Dog in Utah in September 2026

Best Places To Take Your Dog This September

Find the best of everything that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Salt Lake’s Best

Salt Lake's Best

Terina Ria

September is summer and fall: Keep enjoying warm days while settling into cozy nights. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this in-between month.

Your Guide to September 2026 in Salt Lake

Head to Red Butte Garden for the Intermountain Hoop Dance Competition on Sept. 12, where Indigenous dancers use hoops to tell visual stories. Then stick around for drum groups, artists, food trucks, and community organizations.

Take an early fall road trip to Torrey in southern Utah for Fort Desolation Fest from Sept 24-26. The three-day outdoor music festival brings together Andrew Bird, Tune-Yards, and Bella White. It’s right near Capitol Reef so there’s plenty of adventuring to do between shows.

No hair? No problem. Meet some fellow baldies at this Salt Lake City meetup on Sept. 26. Among all the shiny heads, you can expect games, competitions, and giveaways. Bald caps are welcome, too.

Get ahead of your winter weaving and attend a class at Bewitched by Alpacas in Bluffdale. You’ll learn the basics on a handcrafted loom while alpacas and goats hangout nearby. Classes take place on various days throughout the month.

Atelier’s fourth annual Dollhouse Show on Sept. 12 features tiny worlds handmade by more than 20 local artists. It might even inspire you to take on a tiny hobby of your own.

Make the most of September in Salt Lake with meetups, crafting, hoop dancing, and festivals.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in September 2026

September in Utah screams festival season. Here are some recommendations to add to your list.

: Rise up, mi gente Latina, 'cause from Sept. 4-7, we’re dancing and eating our hearts out in Utah County's Historic Courthouse. Bring the whole family and make a day (or weekend) of it.

: Immerse yourself in Afro culture on Sept. 5 at Salt Lake City’s Library Square. You’ll shop local, see fashion and art showcases, and hear live music performances. Make sure to come with an empty stomach.

: Enjoy the fall foliage at Snowbird with a stein and a brat, now till Oct. 11. Make the most of it and rent a room at the resort or plan a ride back. Pro-tip: Thrift your stein mug or borrow one so you don’t get up-charged.

: Experience the locals version of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” from Sept. 11-13 at Holy Trinity Cathedral, marking the festival's 50th year. You already know I’ll be in the baklava line.

: Samba your way to Orem on Sept. 12, home to one of the state's largest Brazilian festivals. Expect live music, capoeira, art, activities, and a full day of culture.

 For vegetarians and animal lovers, VegFest is back on Sept. 12 at Salt Lake’s Library Square. Prepare yourselves for a beer garden, kid-friendly activities, and delicious food.

: Calling all pasta lovers to the Gateway from Sept. 19-20; get ready for the food coma of your lives. Bring on the vino.

: Head up to the Capitol Hill neighborhood Sept. 26 for some live music and dancing next to the Marmalade Library.

Salt Lake Festivals September 2026

September 2026’s Best Festivals

Twenty-seven years ago today, a destructive tornado tore through downtown Salt Lake City and left behind an unusual piece of history: a desk. In honor of the anniversary, we’re looking back at that story and a few other Utah deep cuts.

On Aug. 11, 1999, an F2 tornado in Salt Lake City killed one person, injured more than 80, and damaged 300 buildings and homes. Salvaged wood from uprooted trees at the Capitol was turned into a “tornado desk” that now sits in the Governor’s Ceremonial Office. Then-first lady Jacalyn Leavitt even 

turned the story into a children’s book

 in 2001, with tickets starting at just $29. Fair organizers at the time loved booking “rising stars,” including the likes of NSYNC and Britney Spears.

 at the Outlets at Traverse Mountain’s 2013 Christmas tree lighting. What are the chances we’ll get her for the 13th anniversary?

In May 1972, Salt Lake man Michael Hansen 

 in protest of the Vietnam War, and redirected it on a Salt Lake City → Los Angeles → Dallas → Tampa → Havana joy ride.

From Salt Lake’s tornado desk to Destiny’s Child at the State Fair, revisit four surprising moments from Utah history.

4 Utah History Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Utah Deep Cuts You Should Know About

What Salt Lakers have been wondering. We break down why things in Salt Lake City are the way they are and how they work.

Salt Lake, Explained

It’s the last full month of summer. Before the season winds down, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to soak up August in Salt Lake.

Browse hundreds of local artists at the 18th annual 

, Aug. 7-9, then keep the treasure hunt going at the 

 sidewalk sale, Aug. 7-8. And later in the month, spend the day at the 

When you need some reprieve from the heat, there’s nothing like strolling through an art gallery. The 

 starts today, Aug. 4, at Urban Arts Gallery, featuring original artwork on skateboard decks.

What says summer more than barbecue? Bonus points if it’s in the mountains. Head to Deer Valley Resort for smoked meats, cold brews, live music, and killer views at the last 

 where you can swim, paddleboard, kayak, or relax on the sandy beach. Reserve a time slot for your group and enjoy the whole place to yourself.

. Their expansive menu includes crispy poke nachos, fried musubi, and large platters that will feed your whole family.

For even more ideas listen to our August guide episode 🎧

Make the most of August in Salt Lake with festival, art shows, mountain barbecue, and more.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in August 2026

Angie Treasure

What better way to celebrate a day all about Salt Lake than by supporting local businesses? Thirty-plus shops, restaurants, and bars up and down 900 South are offering deals in celebration of 

Physical copies will be available for pickup at the following locations:

Visit the businesses for a signature or stamp and enjoy the promotions while you're at it. Every five stamps gets you one ticket to enter an opportunity drawing. Bring your passport with stamps to the City Cast Salt Lake booth at the Milk Block between 5-7:30 p.m. Must be present to win!

Don't want a physical passport? No sweat. Just mention the 801 Day deal at a participating business and enjoy your discount or free activity. (Note: You can only enter the drawing if you have a physical passport.)

The Milk Block is on 402-430 E. and 900 S. The 9 Line is a bike path along 900 South, so we recommend biking. There are a handful of bike racks at the Milk Blocks. If you're looking to take public transit, 

 goes up and down 900 South. If you're driving, you can park on the streets around the venue or at nearby Liberty Park and walk or bike over.

The Milk Block is ADA accessible. We recommend you enter on Denver Street or 900 South.

City Cast Salt Lake is a daily local podcast and newsletter that keeps you up to date on all things Salt Lake City, with conversations and recommendations that make you feel more connected to this beautiful, complex place we call home.

This event is made possible by our sponsors:

City Cast Salt Lake 801 Day Business Deals 2026

The 9 Line Business Passport

 has been at the forefront of Utah's specialty food movement. When 

 opened the downtown deli in 1997, gourmet cheese, single-origin chocolate, artisan olive oils, and imported charcuterie were still niche products in Utah. Caputo's 

introduced customers to flavors and food traditions 

from around the world while championing local producers, proving that Utah's culinary scene could be both globally connected and deeply rooted in place.

Caputo's has also helped cultivate a more adventurous dining culture in Salt Lake. For many Utahns, it served as a first introduction to foods they couldn't find anywhere else, and a big difference from the casseroles and Jell-O salads many born-and-raised Utahns were used to. Its influence can be seen in the rise of independent bakeries, specialty grocers, farmers markets, and chef-driven restaurants that now define Salt Lake's thriving culinary scene.

Today, under the leadership of Matt Caputo, the family business continues to push the state's food culture forward. Beyond its 

, hosting tastings, workshops, and classes that help customers understand the stories behind artisan foods. The market has also played a role in nurturing 

, helping launch and promote local makers while giving small producers a platform alongside world-renowned artisans.

How Caputo's in Salt Lake City Changed Utah's Food Scene

Before Viral Charcuterie Boards, There Was Caputo’s

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Salt Lake City. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Salt Lake Food & Drink

Food & Drink

This article is sponsored by Rocky Mountain Power

Summer temps in Utah are high, but your power bill doesn’t have to be. A few small changes around the house can make a noticeable difference without sacrificing comfort.

One of the easiest ways to lower your power bill is setting your air conditioner a few degrees higher. Rocky Mountain Power says 78 is great, and a smart thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away.

: Replace or clean filters monthly and consider a seasonal tune-up to help your AC run more efficiently.

Most loads don't need hot water, so switching to cold can save energy. And don’t forget to clean the dryer’s lint trap after every load.

: Save your energy-intensive chores, like laundry and dish washing, for the evening when your house is cooler.

West-facing windows during the summers can be brutal. Keep the blinds or curtains closed during the day, then crack the windows in the evening to let cooler air in.

: Avoid the oven on hot days and use a toaster oven, microwave, or grill instead.

Electronics keep draining power even when they’re off, so unplug devices you aren’t using or connect them to a power strip for an easy shutoff.

: Lower your water heater to 120 degrees. You’ll still have plenty of hot water, but with lower energy costs.

Utah summers are expensive. These simple tips can help Salt Lake residents stay cool, use less energy, and lower their monthly power bills.

How To Save Money on Your Summer Energy Bill in Salt Lake City

How To Save Money on Your Summer Power Bill

Tips and tricks for living your best Salt Lake City life, by locals, for locals.

Salt Lake Life Hacks

Do you read every Keep It Local newsletter?

Test Your Salt Lake Knowledge

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

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!

Keep It Local

Test Your Salt Lake Knowledge

Shelby Hintze

Share article

Keep It Local

Hispanic Heritage Month Is a Great Excuse to Shop Local

Get Your Peach Fix With These Treats

Fresh Utah Produce Isn’t Done Yet

Your Labor Day To-Do List: Support Utah Workers

Your Library Card Is More Powerful Than You Think

A MICHELIN Star? We’d Give It to Hell’s Backbone

Move Over, MICHELIN: These Are Our Utah Picks

How Beehive Meals Turned Dinner Into a Big Business

The latest in Salt Lake

Best Places To Take Your Dog This September

Your Guide to Salt Lake in September 2026

September 2026’s Best Festivals

Utah Deep Cuts You Should Know About

Your Guide to Salt Lake in August 2026

The 9 Line Business Passport

Before Viral Charcuterie Boards, There Was Caputo’s

How To Save Money on Your Summer Power Bill