Manti, Sanpete County seat, hosts travelers seeking quiet relaxation and historical reflection. Visitors spend a night or two at quaint bed and breakfasts, or tour the grounds of the historic Manti LDS Temple, built in 1888. Others come for the thrills offered on any of the nearby fishing or ATV, hiking and mountain biking trails.

But in June of each year, Manti takes on new life and excitement when Manti LDS Temple grounds turn into a giant stage, larger than a football field, for the Mormon Miracle Pageant. The town truly comes alive as a cast of over 500 works to combine dance, music, and drama in a unique production for a large audience seated under the canopy of stars. The pageant runs for eight nights, June 16-25, except Sundays and Mondays. This year will mark the 50th year of the pageant.

Each year, the pageant retells the account of the resurrected Jesus Christ visiting the people on the American continents. The dramatization includes Christ healing and teaching the people, as well as blessing the children, just as he did in Jerusalem.

Time fast-forwards to the 1800s, when farm boy Joseph Smith received and later translated the record of this ancient American people. The record is known today as the Book of Mormon.

Finally, the presentation concludes with the story of a fictional couple searching for religious truth and enlightenment and the joy they find upon discovering that family relationships can be eternal.

First time pageant-goers will find the following tips useful: Arrive early for optimum seating. First-come seating is provided for 14,500 and there is room on the grass for additional spectators. June evenings can be cool so bring a sweater or blanket. Blankets may be used on chairs but are not allowed in the aisles. The blanket area is now larger.

There are facilities and accommodations for special needs, lost and found, drinking fountains, restrooms, translators. Search and Rescue and emergency personnel are on site.

The pageant is free, but dinner is not. Bring a picnic dinner, or plan to purchase a barbequed turkey or roast beef dinner at the pageant. The tasty meals are reasonably priced and will be served each evening during the pageant at the National Guard Armory, 100 West Union. No food or drink is allowed on the grounds. Manti City Vendor Plaza, 100 East 350 North, will have a variety of food and craft booths.

Plan to stay overnight in Manti the night of the pageant as traffic will be exceptionally congested at the conclusion of the production. Many visitors find that staying at a bed and breakfast adds to the experience, providing a unique local perspective, plus great service. Whether choosing a bed and breakfast, hotel, or campground, be sure to make reservations well in advance.

Camping at Manti City Park, 200 North 300 West, is allowed only during pageant on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reservations are not taken. Restroom facilities are available, but no showers. Set up tents or trailers and a camp-fee collector will visit the site to collect. The park is within walking distance of the temple grounds.

Take some time before or after the pageant to explore the region. Take scenic drives, rent ATVs, or visit museums, unique boutiques and craftsman shops.

For those not familiar with the story of The Book of Mormon, it may help to learn a bit about its history before attending the pageant. Background information can be obtained from locals or members of the LDS Church or check out a copy of The Book of Mormon from the library in Ephraim, Mt. Pleasant or Manti.