Salt Lake Winter Roundup: Celebrating Community and Culture with 15,000 Attendees

Salt Lake Winter Roundup 2025

On February 8, 2025, the streets of downtown Salt Lake City were a vibrant tapestry of activity, as the second annual Salt Lake Winter Roundup drew in over 15,000 attendees. This year’s event commemorated the anniversary of the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Games' Opening Ceremonies, making it not just a celebration of winter sports, but a reflection of the community's spirit and its rich cultural heritage.

Hosted by Visit Salt Lake, in collaboration with the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo, this festive gathering showcased the unique fusion of sports, arts, and local flavor. The excitement kicked off with an electrifying Skijoring display, a thrilling blend of rodeo and skiing that had spectators on the edge of their seats. This adrenaline-fueled spectacle saw skilled skiers being pulled by horses down the city's streets, combining speed and skill to entertain the crowds.

Throughout the day, live performances by local musicians and artistic groups filled the air with culture and celebration. The infectious energy created a lively atmosphere, drawing smiles and cheers from families and individuals alike. A variety of activities catered to all ages, from thrilling demonstrations to interactive, hands-on experiences that engaged attendees in the spirit of the day.

The culinary highlight was undoubtedly the local flavors presented by RR Barbeque and a host of food trucks, each offering delicious bites that represented Salt Lake's vibrant food scene. This culinary showcase not only teased the taste buds but also helped highlight the area's unique culinary talents, cementing the event as a true feast for the senses.

Kaitlin Eskelson, President and CEO of Visit Salt Lake, commented, “This year's Winter Roundup was a beautiful representation of our community’s spirit and the rich history of Salt Lake. Seeing so many people come together to celebrate what makes our destination unique is inspiring. It’s crucial for supporting local businesses, from hotels to restaurants.”

Indeed, the economic boost from such events cannot be understated. The Winter Roundup significantly enhanced downtown activity, encouraging both locals and visitors to engage with the local economy. This has immediate benefits for local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses that thrive on increased foot traffic.

Tommy Joe Lucia, Executive Director of the Days of '47 Rodeo, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Salt Lake for this magnificent downtown celebration. The event not only reflects Utah's western heritage but also fosters a sense of community pride.”

In summary, the 2025 Salt Lake Winter Roundup was more than just an event; it was a reaffirmation of Salt Lake City's identity. Celebrating sports, arts, and culture in an inclusive environment, it highlighted the significance of community gatherings in enhancing local tourism and fostering economic growth. The successful turnout and community involvement set a hopeful tone for future events that continue to unite and celebrate the diverse fabric of Salt Lake City.

For more about Salt Lake's events and attractions, visit Visit Salt Lake.