August in Salt Lake City is packed with exciting events, from performing arts and outdoor films to farmers markets and cultural festivals. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to the top events happening in Salt Lake City in August 2025, listed in chronological order.
1. Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival (July 25 – August 3)
Dive into the creative chaos of the 2025 Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival, a performing arts extravaganza showcasing 20 artists and groups in theatre, dance, music, magic, and storytelling. This uncensored, unadjudicated festival runs over two weekends, July 25-27 and August 1-3, from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Catch performances at The Alliance Theater at Trolley Square (two venues) and MadKing Productions’ Fellowship Theater at The Gateway. Expect original, bold, and boundary-pushing shows that celebrate artistic freedom.
2. Summer Outdoor Film Series (July 11 – August 1)
Spend your Friday nights under the stars at the 2025 Summer Outdoor Film Series at Liberty Park, hosted by the Utah Film Center. This free event features a diverse lineup of incredible films, each starting at 8:00 PM. Bring a blanket and enjoy these cinematic gems, perfect for summer evenings with friends and family. Here’s the full lineup:
- July 11: FLOW (Tumbleweeds) – Kick off the series with this engaging film, ideal for audiences of all ages, showcasing storytelling that sparks imagination.
- July 18: THE APOLLO (Black, Bold & Brilliant) – Celebrate the iconic Apollo Theater’s legacy with this powerful documentary highlighting Black culture and artistry.
- July 25: RIDDLE OF FIRE (Utah Filmmaker Showcase) – Enjoy a locally crafted adventure, spotlighting Utah’s talented filmmakers and their unique storytelling.
- August 1: MOVE YA BODY: THE BIRTH OF HOUSE (Utah Queer Film Festival) – Close the series with a vibrant exploration of house music’s origins, celebrating queer culture and dance.
Each screening offers a unique cinematic experience under the open sky, making Liberty Park the place to be this summer!
3. Hairspray the Musical (August 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9)
Get ready to dance with Hairspray the Musical at Murray Park Amphitheater (495 East 5300 South). Set in 1962, this vibrant production follows Tracy Turnblad, a plus-sized teen who becomes a star on The Corny Collins Show and fights for racial integration. Directed by Tammy Ross, performances are at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children, seniors, and military (plus fees), with group discounts for six or more. Don’t miss this uplifting, toe-tapping show!
4. Once Upon a Mattress (July 18 – August 2)
Laugh and sing along with Once Upon a Mattress, a hilarious retelling of The Princess and the Pea. This musical comedy follows Princess Winnifred as she navigates Queen Aggravain’s impossible tests to win Prince Dauntless’s hand. With raucous and romantic songs, this production runs through August 2 at a venue to be announced. Perfect for families and fans of classic fairy tales with a twist.
5. Shrek the Musical (August 1 – August 16)
Join the ogre we all love in Shrek the Musical, a hilarious and heartwarming show at a venue TBD. Follow Shrek as he rescues Princess Fiona, battles Lord Farquaad, and discovers love in unexpected ways. With dazzling sets, whimsical puppetry, and high-energy dance numbers, this family-friendly musical runs from August 1-16. It’s a fairy tale adventure that celebrates being true to yourself.
6. Murray Park Farmer’s Market (Every Friday and Saturday, July 25 – October 25)
Shop fresh and local at the 2025 Murray Park Farmer’s Market, held every Friday and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Murray Park. Operated by the Utah Farm Bureau, this food-only market connects consumers with Utah farmers, offering fresh produce, bread, jams, salsa, and tamales. It’s a great way to support local agriculture and stock up on seasonal goodies.
7. 6th Annual Indian Food Fair (August 2)
Savor the flavors of India at the 6th Annual Indian Food Fair on August 2 at a location TBD. This free event features classic dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and samosas, alongside vibrant cultural experiences. Bring your appetite and immerse yourself in the spices and spirit of India from morning to evening.
8. Rockstock Music Festival (August 2)
Rock out at the Rockstock Music Festival 2025 on August 2 at Smith’s Ballpark from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This one-night-only classic rock tribute festival features top-tier bands performing hits by Queen, Aerosmith, Heart, Journey, and the Eagles. Enjoy food trucks, a lively festival vibe, and “front row” lawn seating. Tickets and details are available at www.RockStockTour.com.
9. Comedy Rumble (August 2 & 9)
Laugh out loud at the Comedy Rumble, hosted by Wiseguys Comedy and The Fresh King Benjamin. On August 2 and 9 at a venue TBD, eight local comedians battle in three fastshe rounds for the title of Closer, earning ten minutes to close the night. Round 1 features one-minute sets, Round 2 has three-minute sets, and Round 3 pits the final two in five-minute performances. Audience votes decide the winner in this fast-paced, hilarious competition.
10. Downtown Farmers Market (Every Saturday)
Celebrate 34 years of the Downtown Farmers Market 2025, a beloved summer tradition every Saturday at a location TBD. Shop the freshest local produce, grass-fed meats, eggs, dairy, honey, and artisanal goods like sauces and baked goods. This market strengthens the connection between consumers and Utah’s small farms, offering a vibrant shopping experience.
11. Mondays in the Park Concert Series (August 4 & 11)
Enjoy free traditional folk music and cultural dance at the 2025 Mondays in the Park Concert Series on August 4 and 11 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Liberty Park in front of the Chase Home Museum. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic for a relaxing evening of family-friendly entertainment, presented by the Salt Lake City Arts Council and Utah Division of Arts & Museums.
12. Night Out Against Crime & Rolling Car Show (August 5)
Join the community at Big Cottonwood Regional Park from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM for the Night Out Against Crime & Rolling Car Show. This free event features a rolling car show at 7:00 PM, interactive booths, police and fire vehicles, games, and live music, fostering safety awareness and community connection in Millcreek.
13. Red Butte Outdoor Concert Series: Rick Springfield “I Want My ‘80s Tour” (August 6)
Rock the night away at the Red Butte Outdoor Concert Series on August 6 at Red Butte Garden. Rick Springfield’s “I Want My ‘80s Tour” features John Waite, Wang Chung, and Paul Young, starting at 6:30 PM (gates open at 5:30 PM). Tickets are $92 for Garden members and $97 for the public. Get ready for a nostalgic ‘80s party!
14. The Quills Writing Conference (August 7-10)
Writers, editors, and authors gather at The Quills Writing Conference 2025 from August 7-10 in the Salt Lake City mountains. Featuring guests like Travis Baldree, Courtney Milan, and Sammi Walker, this event offers classes, workshops, pitch sessions, and signing events. Tickets for in-person or virtual attendance are available at www.leagueofutahwriters.com.
15. Sandy City Hot Air Balloon Festival (August 8-9)
Soar to new heights at the 18th Annual Sandy City Hot Air Balloon Festival on August 8-9 at Storm Mountain Park (980 East 11400 South) and City Promenade (10000 S. Centennial Parkway). Enjoy early morning balloon launches (weather permitting) around 6:30 AM, tethered rides, food trucks, and a morning DJ. On Saturday evening, the Balloon Glow from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM features illuminated balloons, a DJ dance party, bounce houses, face painting, and a spectacular 10:00 PM drone show. Admission is free.
16. Craft Lake City DIY Fest (August 8-10)
Celebrate Utah’s handmade culture at the 17th Annual Craft Lake City DIY Fest from August 8-10, presented by Harmons. This free festival at a TBD location features over 500 local artisans, vintage vendors, foodies, youth entrepreneurs, performers, and STEM exhibitors, showcasing the best of Utah’s art, music, science, and technology.
17. BugFest 2025 (August 9-10)
Get up close with Utah’s tiniest residents at BugFest 2025 on August 9-10 at the Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU). This family-friendly event spotlights the praying mantis with expert speakers, face painting, specimen displays, iNaturalist activities, a BugBar with insect treats, and access to the Mysteries of the Ice Ages exhibit. It’s a buzzing celebration of Utah’s insects and pollinators.
18. Snowbird’s Oktoberfest (Every Saturday and Sunday, August 9 – October 12)
Raise a glass at Snowbird’s Oktoberfest 2025, running every Saturday and Sunday from August 9 through October 12, plus Labor Day, from noon to 6:00 PM. Enjoy live music, traditional Bavarian food, over 50 beer varieties, and family-friendly activities. This free festival at Snowbird Resort draws thousands with its vibrant atmosphere. Download the Snowbird App for updates.
19. Yappy Hour at Pioneer Park (August 14)
Bring your furry friends to Yappy Hour at Pioneer Park for an evening of live music, food, beer, and pet-friendly fun. This free, all-ages event includes a large off-leash area for dogs to play. Outside coolers and drinks are prohibited, but the tail-wagging good time is guaranteed!
20. Salt Lake Gallery Stroll (August 15)
Explore Salt Lake City’s thriving visual arts scene at the 2025 Salt Lake Gallery Stroll on August 15. This free event, held the third Friday of each month (except December), invites the public to meet artists and browse galleries after hours. Some sponsors offer special discounts for participants, making it a perfect evening for art lovers.
21. Westside CultureFest (August 15-16)
Celebrate the creative heartbeat of Salt Lake’s West Side at Westside CultureFest on August 15-16 from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. This free festival features over 30 performances, an artist market, food trucks, a bar area, and kid-friendly art activities, showcasing the community’s vibrant arts scene.
22. Millcreek Arts Fest (August 16)
Discover over 70 artists and 10 musical acts at the 2025 Millcreek Arts Fest on August 16 at the Historic Baldwin Radio Factory. This free event, supported by ZAP and local businesses, offers fine art, unique gifts, food vendors, live entertainment, and a Kids Zone for family fun. Enjoy a day of creativity and community.
23. Utah Summer Dance Festival (August 16)
Experience global dance styles at the Utah Summer Dance Festival on August 16 at a TBD location. This free event showcases Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and other dance forms, uniting communities through professional and student performances. It’s a vibrant celebration of multicultural movement.
24. Opening Knights (August 22)
Embark on a Dungeons & Dragons adventure at Opening Knights on August 22 at a TBD venue. Join heroes in the Eastern Heartlands of Faerûn, participating in the story by rerolling dice, speaking for gods, and playing monsters. Produced by Dungeon XP, this interactive show offers a unique, imagination-fueled experience. (Not affiliated with Wizards of the Coast.)
25. Festival of Cultures: Rooted and Rising: Many Roots, One U (August 27)
Celebrate diversity at the 2025 Festival of Cultures on August 27 at the University of Utah. Themed “Rooted and Rising: Many Roots, One U,” this free event features cultural performances, food trucks, vendors, and educational programming, fostering connection and growth through art, music, and storytelling.
26. Utah Night Market (August 29-30)
Savor Asian cuisine at the Utah Night Market on August 29 (3:00 PM – 9:00 PM) and August 30 (11:00 AM – 9:00 PM) at Jordan Park (1000 South 900 West). Enjoy dumplings, noodles, boba, desserts, and an anime marketplace. Tickets include free parking; children 17 and under are free. Bring a lawn chair and cash for vendors ($5-$17). Pets on leashes are welcome.
27. Kaleidoscope Festival Kick Off (August 30)
Kick off a two-week celebration of arts for older adults at the Kaleidoscope Festival on August 30 at Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. This free event, part of Healthy Aging Month, features performances, exhibits, and creative classes, with additional events statewide. Celebrate creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.
Ongoing Events
- Summer Showdown (Every Friday & Saturday): Cult and indie films compete at the Broadway to be crowned the Champion of Summer. Enjoy cinematic goodness and vote for your favorite.
- Coca-Cola Sunset Cinema (Every Thursday): Catch classic films like Moana 2 (August 7) and The Fall Guy (August 14) at 8:00 PM on Moonbeam Lawn in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Bring a blanket; 25/26 Ikon Pass holders and canyon residents get food discounts.
- Big Cottonwood Canyon Flea Market (Every Sunday): Shop vintage, handmade, and local goods from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Brighton, Utah, for a laid-back mountain market experience.
- Footloose the Musical (Various Dates): Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Footloose with a high-energy musical about Ren McCormack’s dance revolution in a small town. Check local listings for dates and venues.
- Harry Potter: The Exhibition (Various Dates): Explore the Harry Potter universe with interactive exhibits, props, and costumes at a TBD venue. Practice Quidditch, brew potions, and earn house points.
- Mysteries of the Ice Ages – A Special Exhibition (Ongoing, opened June 7): Discover 80,000 years of Earth’s history at NHMU, with 120+ specimens, artifacts, and interactives about Ice Age creatures, Neanderthals, and the Beringia land bridge. Included with museum admission (free for NHMU members and University of Utah affiliates).
August 2025 in Salt Lake City is a vibrant blend of arts, culture, food, and outdoor fun. Plan your month with these events and make unforgettable memories under the Utah sun! For more details, check event websites or local listings.
