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City Cast Salt Lake

Shelby Hintze

It’s quiz time! Think you know Salt Lake’s haunted trivia? Test your knowledge to find out!

Is the McCune Mansion one of the many haunted spots in Salt Lake? (fotoVoyager/

This article is sponsored by Rocky Mountain Power.

Test Your Energy-Saving Knowledge

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

Salt Lake Life Hacks

Terina Ria

) — the best way to experience Salt Lake is through the eyes of someone who lives here. Yep, that’s me! Here’s how I’d spend a day around town.

, an SLC staple. My go-to is the browned-butter caramel latte. Or catch 

, a monthly pop-up. Their next gathering is on Oct. 25 at 1809 West Temple. Grab a pastry, sandwich, or tartine at 

, a 10,000-square-foot warehouse packed with vintage finds, or explore the oddities at the newly opened 

, just in time for Halloween. Then bring some Y2K fashion home from 

 created by the owner of Kissing Whiskey Vintage. This handy directory features over 175 vintage shops.

, an independent record shop tucked inside a historic 1930s home. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

, which features 28 distinct gardens representing countries from around the world.

, a communal bathhouse where you can cycle between saunas, cold plunge, and warm pool. Then enjoy Northern Indian cuisine for dine-in or takeout at 

, which just received recognition by the Michelin Guide.

Explore Salt Lake City with a local’s guide to the best coffee shops, vintage stores, restaurants, and hidden gems.

A Local's Guide to Salt Lake City Fall 2026

A Local's Guide to Salt Lake City

Everything to know about Salt Lake City neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Salt Lake Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

Will you be leaning into the spooky or snuggly this month? The best thing is you don’t have to choose and you can do it all.

Your Guide to October 2026 in Salt Lake

Are you in a creative slump? Join a free, 

 working their way through Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way” at Make Well studio. The program kicks off Oct. 1 and meets every other Thursday. No artistic experience required.

 is a scary movie club with a twist: Every month, view a horror, thriller, or cult classic at Murray Theater, but you won’t know what you’re watching until you arrive. Memberships start at $15.

Remember, It’s Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus

Celebrate everyone’s favorite Halloween movie, “Hocus Pocus,” by watching it all month long: 

This month was made for book nerds. Start things off with a 

 at The King’s English Bookshop on Oct. 4. Then fill the rest of your calendar with author talks, workshops, and other literary fun at the 

Visit Lake Effect’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” pop-up, which turns the downtown bar into a 

 every Monday through Oct. 26, featuring the Pumpkin King himself. Tickets are $25 per person.

Make the most of October in Salt Lake by creating, watching scary movies, and nonstop reading.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in October 2026

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

Salt Lake’s Best

Salt Lake's Best

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

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

Is the McCune Mansion haunted? Or the Walker Center? Test your haunted history knowledge in this scary quiz.


How Well Do You Know Salt Lake’s Haunted Spots?

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

Did you overestimate your ability to make gifts for everyone on your holiday list? That’s OK! Take a class, learn a new skill, or at least block off a couple of hours to work uninterrupted with someone to help you along the way. You get a new skill; your loved one gets a gift.

: Are you feeling the call of your inner Nick Offerman? Take a four-week-long intro to turning course at 

 and leave with four gift-worthy projects. You can also learn to use the woodshop at Make Salt Lake and 

 Go solo or with friends to make your own candle at 

Get a kit with all the supplies to make five cards and then actually MAKE THEM at the 

. A set of ready-made cards for multiple occasions is an awesome gift to your most thoughtful friend.

. Your impending late-night breakdown over a broken needle while you finish all these other projects thanks you.

Make a cutting board, a leather journal, or a set of handmade cards for someone special while picking up a new skill at these local workshops.

Craft Classes in Salt Lake City to Make Holiday Gifts

If this is the year you vowed to make all your Christmas gifts, I have some bad news: You have about 60 days. The good news? Utah has a long crafting tradition, and the local crafting community is ready to help.

So grab your shopping list, clear some space on the dining room table, and prepare to develop a very specific new personality trait. Let’s get making!

Needlepoint, Cross-Stitch, and Embroidery

Yes, there’s a difference. And I was reminded that if I confused any of them, I’d get emails.

 in Midvale offer modern takes on this classic craft. Both carry canvases, threads, and other supplies, plus classes for all skill levels. If you finish a project and have absolutely no idea what to do with it next, check out 

 on Instagram for local finishing services.

For patterns, kits, and supplies, I love the selection at 

 in Gardner Village. It’s also a massive quilting store with tons of kits, fabric, quilting notions, and knowledgeable staff. Shout out to the employee who called me brave for buying a tough cross-stitch pattern as my first project. No, I haven’t finished it yet.

Any good sewist knows not all fabric stores will have what you need for your specific project.

 for high-quality apparel fabric, patterns, specialty tools, and everything you need to make something for your friend’s closet.

 For a huge selection, your go-to should be the 

 in West Jordan. I also love the curation at 

 in Provo. Fair warning: You’ll probably leave with fabric for a project you weren’t planning to make. That’s just how it works. Accept it.

 If you’re planning to make a bag for someone on your list, I’d recommend 

 in Salt Lake City. Choosing the fabric is the fun part, but don’t forget the stabilizers, hardware, and straps.

Scrapbooking has gotten a rebrand as junk journaling, and the wood crafts my mom made at Relief Society are making a comeback.

Support Utah-based businesses and shop online from 

 for coordinated collections of paper, stickers, and embellishments.

For classic scrapbooking supplies, check out 

 in Orem (note: the store is not wheelchair accessible). Despite not being a traditional scrapbooking store, I also love 

 in Murray offers unfinished wood projects, seasonal decor, and kits for the kinds of crafts you might remember from childhood.

Whether you’re making bracelets for everyone you know or attempting a pair of earrings that look like they belong in a boutique, these shops can help you find the supplies to make it happen. For walls of beads, findings, and tools, check out 

I know there are a million other craft stores I missed (I didn’t even TOUCH on knitting and crocheting!).

My Happy Place

What’s Your Favorite Craft Store?

Utah has a long crafting tradition, and the local crafting community is ready to help. Here’s where to buy craft supplies for DIY gifts.

Utah Craft Stores for Handmade Christmas Gifts

Utah’s Craft Stores to the Rescue (Because Christmas Is Coming)

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.

 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 

 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 

 for great home decor, local foodstuffs, and see if you can get some love from the shop cat!

 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

 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.

 at Studio at Soundwell, featuring vintage horror movie decor, spooky cocktails, themed bites, DJs, tarot, and weekly scary-oke. Plus, check out the daytime 

Bring your sense of humor to Crone’s Hollow

 for BYOC Comedy: Bring Your Own Cauldron, featuring 

, and magical mischief. The show is free, but there’s a suggested donation for the performers.

Keep the kids busy with a no-scare haunted house and pumpkin patch, or treat yourself to scary-oke, witchy comedy, and a rooftop book festival party.

Salt Lake Fall Break Guide: Pumpkin Patches to Parties

Fall Break for the Pumpkin Patch Crowd and the Party Crowd

Because sometimes you just want to support Utah-based small businesses from the comfort of your couch. Here’s what I’m eyeing right now.

 from Harmony is giving me “Over the Garden Wall” 

I will read anything by Barbara Kingsolver, so I’m excited to get her new book, 

I’m loving the trend of teeny buttons on a cardigan, and this 

Peach Dragonfruit gummies from Swedish Moose

I allow myself one new candle each fall, and as a proud Rose Park resident, I think I need this 

. Buying candles online is risky, but I need to represent my neighborhood!

Cafe Rio…beauty products? Look, I’m intrigued. Idaho-based Poppy and Pout has teamed up with the iconic Salt Lake City brand. I might have to try the mint limeade-inspired 

 lip balm. Although I think I would prefer a Tomatillo Ranch flavor.

My Salt Lake shopping list

🛍️ What are you buying locally this month? Tell us!

Because sometimes you want to support Utah-based small businesses from the comfort of your couch. Here’s what we’re eyeing right now.

Utah Small Businesses to Shop Online This October

Add to Cart: October Edition

Halloween costumes don’t have to come from a plastic bag at a big-box store, and honestly, they’re a lot more fun when they don’t. Whether you want a fully assembled costume, are hunting for the perfect weird accessory, or just want to sneak a little Halloween into your everyday wardrobe, there are plenty of local options. Here’s where to start.

If you want to buy (or rent!) a costume that you can put on and go, these local shops have you covered.

 has a wide selection of new and used adult costumes and accessories, including makeup and temporary hair dye. If you’re building your own costume, the shop also has a solid vintage clothing section.

 in Provo is a theater kid’s dream, with a huge selection of makeup, wigs, and fake blood. You can also rent more elaborate costumes by phone or in-store if your Halloween plans require a little more production value.

, or a bald cap that could transform you into any number of Utah politicians.

 rents pieces to local theater companies, but you don’t have to be in a production to take advantage of the selection. The shop has costumes and pieces from dozens of recent Scera shows, so you can get a little more theatrical with your Halloween look.

Skip the corporate thrift shop and check out local vintage and consignment stores for pieces you can mix, match, and wear again.

Halloween costumes don’t have to come from a big-box store. Here are eight shops in the Salt Lake City area to source your 2026 costume.

Keep It Local

How Well Do You Know Salt Lake’s Haunted Spots?

Shelby Hintze

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Keep It Local

Craft Classes in Salt Lake City to Make Holiday Gifts

Utah’s Craft Stores to the Rescue (Because Christmas Is Coming)

Fall Break for the Pumpkin Patch Crowd and the Party Crowd

Add to Cart: October Edition

Trick or Treat Yourself to a Local Costume

Spooky Season Starts at These Local Shops

Get Inspired by Fall Gardens

Plant Now: Your Utah Garden’s Fall Shopping Guide

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