Springville keeping with tradition and ‘soaring to new heights’ in annual Art City Days
Kids enjoy the festivities and the setting up of hot air balloons as they rise into the air during the Art City Days Hot Air Balloon Festival Saturday, June 11, 2016 in Springville. DOMINIC VALENTE, Daily Herald
Kids enjoy the festivities and the setting up of hot air balloons in anticipation during the Art City Days Hot Air Balloon Festival Saturday, June 11, 2016 in Springville. DOMINIC VALENTE, Daily Herald
Springville firefighters make pancakes during the Art City Days annual Fireman's Breakfast at Springville's Fire Station No. 41 on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Springville.
Nathan Scott, a firefighter and EMT for Springville, explains the trucks to attendees of the Art City Days annual Fireman's Breakfast at Springville's Fire Station No. 41 on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Springville.
The first week of June, the city of Springville will hold its annual Art City Days, filled with festivities that include a carnival, parade, 5K run, balloon festival, fireworks and of course an art show to commemorate the city’s roots.
It was in 1849 when Springville — not yet a city — began its journey toward what is now known for its contribution to the arts. According to a report published on the city’s website, pioneer artist, Philo Dibble, an early Springville settler, envisioned what he called, “The creation of a fine arts museum or gallery to be established for the benefit of the Mormon people.” While Dibble’s premonition wasn’t realized until after his death, his push for an art-centered community helped pave the way for many artists and art collectors to eventually build Utah’s first museum of art.
Over the years, the city has continued its long-standing support for the arts which is evident in several of its events during Art City Days, including its daily art festival, children’s art festival and highlighting a resident artist at the parade. The art show will be held at the Brown Gallery that was recently restored after a devastating fire in 2017, once again showing Springville’s commitment to local art.
Alongside keeping with its artistic roots, the city is moving forward as it believes it embraces growth and even welcomes new police chief, Craig Martinez, just in time for Art City Days. It could be said that Springville is “soaring to new heights,” which is the theme of this year’s event.
In keeping with the theme, there will be a Balloon Fest, where 12 balloons will be launched and free balloon rides will be offered. There will also be an Eagles tribute band from Colorado called, “The Long Run,” who will perform soaring renditions of songs from their favorite band to close out the festivities the evening of June 8.
Other events to be aware of are the 5K Family Fun Run at 7:30 a.m. on June 1, Hometown Rodeo at 6:30 p.m. on June 1, Talent Festival at 7 p.m. on June 1, outdoor movie at 9:00 p.m. on June 3 and the fireman’s breakfast starting at 6:00 a.m. June 7 and 8.