Few people go as hard for parades as Shireen Ghorbani. We had the former County Councilmember on City Cast Salt Lake for part one of our Summer Entertainment Guide. Listen to the episode for a hilarious mascot story, as well as the do’s and don’ts of throwing candy, and the perfect song for making an entrance. Below, you’ll find the best parades to check out:
“I do recommend Sandy. It’s in the evening, and if I’m remembering correctly, it’s a loop. They typically have music, it’s cute, and cozy, and charming. It's just a nice setup, there’s a lot of lawn space you can be out on.” -Shireen
Shireen’s #1 Pick: Magna 4th of July
“A fantastic parade, great for so many reasons, but it also feels wild in a way that some of the other ones don’t. Wild unbridled exuberance. The music's great, people are just having a great time. Main Street in Magna is darling. And I don’t think a lot of people have experienced it. If you go, make sure you get on Main.” -Shireen
Ali’s Late Summer Pick: Sandy Horse Parade
“Last year, the Heritage Festival finally brought back the horse parade after 15 years. They have like 100 horses, a true horse parade, and everyone gets all dressed up. Also, great for families. That’s in September, which some people still consider summer, and those people are me.” - City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta
My Nostalgia Pick: Murray Fun Days
This was my family’s tradition growing up because my mom was born and raised in Murray. She walked, or rather baton twirled, in the parade when she attended Murray High School. For me, it was a thrill as a kid to run out in the middle of State Street, and almost get hit by a giant paper mache castle, for a single piece of taffy. Or sheepishly wave at Miss Murray/Miss South Jordan/Miss Taylorsville ... or cheer on the Murray High School band (of course). Shout out to my Uncle Randy who always got up extra early to save our spot (which we considered prime real estate) right between the McDonald’s and (former) Einstein Bagels.
