A phone call between three local officials turned into Utah County's first-ever Pioneer Day fireworks show, and it took just 11 days to pull off.

Professional fireworks will launch from barges over Utah Lake at 10 p.m. Friday, July 24, visible to residents across several north-shore communities including Lehi, American Fork and Lindon.

The idea started when Lehi City Councilwoman Emily Lockhart, Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran and state Rep. Stephanie Gricius talked about how residents could still celebrate Pioneer Day while wildfire-related fireworks bans remain in effect across the valley. Lehi's ban extends through Saturday, July 26. Cedar Hills has also prohibited personal fireworks under Stage Two fire restrictions.

"I can't stress enough how many people and organizations had to say, 'We'll get it done,'" Beltran said in a social media post reported by the Lehi Free Press on July 17. "Just 11 days after the idea was first discussed, we were able to organize Utah County's first fireworks show on Utah Lake. It truly has been a Herculean effort."

The show required coordination among the Utah Lake Authority, the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, the Utah County Sheriff's Office, local governments, businesses and dozens of volunteers working on a compressed timeline.

Lockhart said the event reflects Pioneer Day's spirit and will give families across Utah County a way to celebrate together. Rep. Gricius said organizers hope it becomes an annual tradition for generations to come.

Where to watch

Spectators can view the fireworks from the American Fork Marina, Lindon Marina, publicly accessible shorelines or from boats on the lake. Boaters must follow all safety requirements. Paddleboards and other non-motorized watercraft are not permitted on Utah Lake after dark.

Title sponsors are QTS Data Centers in Eagle Mountain and UtahCity in Vineyard.

Upcoming community events

  • Friday, July 24: Utah County Pioneer Day fireworks over Utah Lake, 10 p.m. View from American Fork Marina, Lindon Marina or shoreline access points.
  • Saturday, July 25: Lehi Splash Party at Family Park Amphitheater (1999 N. 600 E.), free admission. Live music at 6 p.m., headliner Late Night Thoughts, food trucks 6–9:30 p.m., city fireworks show after the concert. (Separate from the Utah Lake display.)