Pioneer Day (also archaically called the Day of Deliverance)^[1] is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 in the U.S. state of Utah,^[2] with some celebrations in regions of surrounding states originally settled by Mormon pioneers.^[3][4] It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847,^[5] where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois and other locations in the eastern United States.^[6]Parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities help commemorate the event.

In addition to being an official holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day is considered a special occasion by many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).^[7][8] On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart.^[9] Latter-day Saints throughout the United States^[10][11] and around the world may celebrate July 24 in remembrance of the LDS Churches' pioneer era, with songs, dances, and pioneer related activities.^[12][13]

(... from Wikipedia on 2010-07-30 13:08:26 )