Small Town Arts
Even the smallest towns benefit from the tourism generated by the larger attractions. Give yourself some leeway in order to enjoy the multitude of festivals, concerts and other cultural events.
Of course there is Cedar City’s Utah Shakespearean Festival, or other fun events such as the Thunderbird International Film Festival, or The Neil Simon Festival.
The kids are sure to enjoy the famous puppeteer, Dimitry Rashkin, performing at the non-profit D.R. Puppets’ Theatre. But don’t limit this activity to just the little ones, some of the shows are tailored for older kids (and perhaps even the “kid at heart.”) Come early and stroll through the Liberty Art Gallery, displaying gorgeous Russian and American works.
History buffs will enjoy the Castle Valley Pageant’s live historical reenactments, set amidst beautiful hills and valleys.
Park City, with the presence of a large town, offers the annual Sundance Film Festival, the premier independent film showcase in the country. During the spring, Lehi, Utah hosts a Thanksgiving Point’s Tulip Festival where tulips abound within a 55-acre garden. Don’t miss the Elko Cowboy Poetry Festival, in Nevada, which has gained international acclaim. Burning Man, where modern wild men go to go crazy (they call it “radical self expression”), is held in the Black Rock Desert in northern Nevada each year.
Foodies might enjoy heading down to Santa Fe for the annual Wine and Chile Fiesta where 100 wineries showcase their wares for five days in October. Tucson offers a Slow Food & Film Festival during January where participants eat, discuss film screenings and sample local restaurants.
