Since 1945, Steel Days has been a yearly tradition in American Fork, first named for the impact that the steel industry had on the valley. Before that, the yearly celebration days went through a series of other names: Timber Day, Liberty Day and Poultry Day. Since it became Steel Days, it has continued with activities and celebrations enjoyed by generations of families.

This year, Steel Days will be held July 13-21 and will feature some traditional favorites as well as new activities, according to Josh Walker, president of the American Fork Chamber of Commerce.

Something that is new this year is the American Fork Idol Competition. Those wanting to compete can sign up to participate in the singing competition before a panel of judges. The winner will have the opportunity to sing on the night of The Big Show, which features a concert with a live band.

The downtown market is also new this year. During Steel Days, a market with a variety of vendors will be ongoing in the parking lot by the Bank of American Fork. The Steel Days Pickleball Tournament will also be happening for the first time this year, Walker said.

Other activities that residents and visitors love to attend will be coming back this year. A horseshoe tournament will be held on July 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Rotary Park, 400 S. 200 East. Anyone age 16 and older is welcome to compete.

This year will mark the 27th anniversary of the Steel Days Quilt Show. This year’s theme is “Picnic in the Park.” This free event will display the works of local artisans and several different awards will be given. The quilts will be exhibited on July 19 and 20 at the Senior Citizens Center, 54 E. Main Street, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on July 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The annual Tea with the Queen will be held on July 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Fox Hollow Golf Club. Miss American Fork will host the event and participants can come dressed up in princess attire. A variety of activities will be available including face painting and fingernail painting. A light lunch will also be served.

The City of Fun Carnival will be open July 19 from noon to 10:30 p.m., July 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and July 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The city sells universal tickets called SteelDeal tickets a few weeks in advance of the celebration. The purchase allows visitors to present one ticket for any ride at the carnival. The SteelDeal tickets are available for purchase at several different local businesses, listed on the Steel Days website.

“The most popular event is the fair and Big Show,” Walker said. These are held the last day of the celebration, July 21. “The parade is also popular,” Walker said. Just before the parade, which is held on July 21 at 9:30 a.m., there will be a breakfast fundraiser, put on by the American Fork High School Marching Band. “That has always been a popular tradition,” Walker said.

For more information about Steel Days and to register for the events, check out the website at http://www.steeldaysaf.com.