Salt Lake City, UT

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City, Utah, is more than just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a bustling hub of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, with a calendar packed full of events that draw locals and visitors alike. From heart-pounding sports matchups to soul-stirring concerts and captivating theater performances, Salt Lake City’s event scene has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the city’s biggest venues, explore the types of events that keep the city buzzing, and highlight some recent and upcoming happenings that make Salt Lake City a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a music lover, a sports fanatic, or a theater buff, this vibrant city has an experience waiting for you.

Why Salt Lake City is an Event Lover’s Paradise

Salt Lake City’s unique blend of urban energy and mountain-town charm creates the perfect setting for a diverse array of events. The city’s venues, ranging from intimate clubs to massive arenas, host everything from world-class performers to local talent, ensuring there’s always something exciting on the horizon. With a rich cultural heritage, a thriving arts scene, and a passionate sports community, Salt Lake City strikes a perfect chord between big-city entertainment and small-town hospitality. Plus, its manageable size means you can easily navigate from one event to another, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere without the overwhelming hustle of larger metros.

The city’s event calendar is a reflection of its dynamic community. Annual festivals like the Utah Arts Festival and Pioneer Day celebrations bring thousands together, while venues like the Delta Center and Eccles Theater keep the energy high year-round with concerts, sports, and performances. Whether you’re planning a trip or you’re a local looking to rediscover your city, Salt Lake City’s events offer endless opportunities to connect, celebrate, and create memories.

The Biggest Venues in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City boasts an impressive lineup of venues that cater to a wide range of events. These spaces are the heart of the city’s entertainment scene, hosting everything from NBA games to Broadway shows. Here’s a look at some of the biggest and most iconic venues in the city.

Delta Center: The Epicenter of Sports and Concerts

The Delta Center, formerly known as Vivint Arena, is Salt Lake City’s premier venue for major sports and entertainment events. Located in the heart of downtown, this 18,300-seat arena is home to the Utah Jazz (NBA) and the Utah Hockey Club (NHL), making it a go-to spot for sports fans. The arena’s state-of-the-art facilities and prime location make it a favorite for concerts as well, hosting global superstars like Post Malone, Twenty One Pilots, and Sabrina Carpenter. With a packed schedule of events, from basketball games to high-energy music performances, the Delta Center is a cornerstone of Salt Lake City’s entertainment landscape. Recent concerts in 2025 have included acts like Peso Pluma and Blink-182, showcasing the venue’s versatility in accommodating diverse genres.

Rice-Eccles Stadium: Where Sports and Spectacle Collide

Home to the University of Utah’s Utes football team, Rice-Eccles Stadium is a 51,444-seat colossus that dominates the city’s sports scene. Located on the University of Utah campus, this stadium is a hub for college football, with fans packing the stands to cheer on the Utes during their thrilling matchups. Beyond football, Rice-Eccles has hosted major events like the 2002 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies, cementing its status as a venue for monumental occasions. The stadium also occasionally hosts concerts and community events, making it a versatile space for large-scale gatherings. The roar of the crowd during a Utes game is an experience that captures the heart of Salt Lake City’s community spirit.

Eccles Theater: A Stage for the Arts

For theater lovers, the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater is a crown jewel in Salt Lake City’s cultural scene. This 2,500-seat venue, opened in 2016, is known for its stunning architecture and top-notch acoustics, making it the perfect setting for Broadway tours, musicals, and live performances. The Eccles Theater hosts a variety of shows, from national tours of hits like Hamilton and Wicked to local productions and dance performances. Its intimate yet grand design ensures that every seat feels close to the action, creating a magical experience for audiences. Recent seasons have featured critically acclaimed shows like The Jonas Brothers 20th Anniversary Tour (in a nearby venue, but indicative of the theater’s draw for big names) and smaller, innovative performances that highlight local talent.

The Union Event Center: Versatile and Vibrant

The Union Event Center is a favorite for mid-sized concerts and private events, offering a more intimate setting than the Delta Center while still accommodating large crowds. With a capacity of around 3,500, this venue is ideal for corporate events, non-profit galas, and concerts by artists like Collective Soul, scheduled for January 2025. Its flexible layout and modern amenities make it a go-to spot for everything from rock shows to business conferences, adding to Salt Lake City’s diverse event offerings.

Abravanel Hall: A Symphony of Sound

Abravanel Hall, home to the Utah Symphony, is a 2,811-seat venue renowned for its exceptional acoustics and elegant design. Located in downtown Salt Lake City, this venue is a haven for classical music lovers, hosting symphony performances, opera, and special events. Its gold-leafed lobby and stunning chandelier create an atmosphere of grandeur, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Beyond classical music, Abravanel Hall occasionally hosts jazz performances and guest artists, adding variety to its calendar. If you’re looking for a refined cultural experience, this venue is a must-visit.

The Complex: A Hub for Live Music

The Complex, located at 536 West 100 South, is a multi-room venue that caters to music lovers with a passion for rock, hip-hop, and indie acts. With spaces like the Grand and the Rockwell, The Complex can accommodate both intimate gigs and larger concerts, hosting artists like The Lumineers and Hozier in recent years. Its industrial-chic vibe and top-tier sound system make it a favorite among local and touring bands. With over 54 upcoming concerts scheduled in 2025, The Complex is a hotspot for discovering new music and enjoying established acts.

Other Notable Venues

Salt Lake City’s event scene extends beyond its largest venues. Smaller but equally vibrant spaces like Kilby Court, a beloved indie music venue, and Peery’s Egyptian Theatre, a historic spot for theater and film, add depth to the city’s offerings. The Great Saltair, located near the Great Salt Lake, is a unique venue for concerts and festivals, known for hosting acts like Tyler Childers. The Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre and Sandy Amphitheater also bring outdoor concerts to the mix, with recent performances by artists like Lyle Lovett. These venues ensure that Salt Lake City’s event landscape is as diverse as its audience.

The Usual Events: Sports, Concerts, and Theater

Salt Lake City’s event calendar is a vibrant tapestry woven with sports, music, and performing arts. Here’s a closer look at the types of events that keep the city alive year-round.

Sports: A City of Passionate Fans

Sports are a cornerstone of Salt Lake City’s identity, with fans rallying behind their teams in venues across the city. The Delta Center is the epicenter of professional sports, hosting the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club. Basketball games draw massive crowds, with the Jazz’s fast-paced matchups creating an electric atmosphere. The Utah Hockey Club, the NHL’s newest team, has added a fresh wave of excitement to the city’s sports scene, with fans flocking to see their inaugural season in 2025.

College sports are equally big, with Rice-Eccles Stadium serving as the battleground for the University of Utah Utes. Football season transforms the city into a sea of red, as fans tailgate and cheer through thrilling games against rivals like the BYU Cougars. Beyond football, the Utes’ basketball and gymnastics teams also draw dedicated crowds. For those who prefer smaller-scale sports, America First Field hosts Real Salt Lake, the city’s Major League Soccer team, offering family-friendly matches with a passionate fanbase.

Annual events like the Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo bring a Western flair to the city, with professional bull riders and barrel racers competing in a celebration of Utah’s pioneer heritage. These events, often held at venues like the Utah State Fairpark, attract visitors from across the region and add a unique flavor to the sports scene.

Concerts: A Soundtrack for Every Taste

Salt Lake City’s music scene is as diverse as its landscape, with venues hosting everything from chart-topping pop stars to underground indie bands. The Delta Center is the go-to spot for major concerts, with recent and upcoming performances by artists like Fred Again, Grupo Firme, and Marina Diamandis. These shows draw thousands, creating unforgettable nights filled with music and energy.

For those who prefer a more intimate setting, The Complex and The Depot offer a closer connection to the artists. The Complex’s 2025 lineup includes acts like Stephen Wilson Jr. and Charlotte Sands, catering to fans of rock, punk, and alternative genres. Kilby Court, a small but legendary venue, is a launching pad for up-and-coming bands, making it a favorite among music enthusiasts looking to discover new talent. Outdoor venues like the Sandy Amphitheater and The Great Saltair bring the magic of live music under the stars, with performances like Muscadine Bloodline and Lyle Lovett lighting up the summer nights.

Festivals also play a big role in the music scene. The Twilight Concert Series, held annually in downtown Salt Lake City, is a summer staple that brings together local and national acts for a celebration of music and community. The Utah Arts Festival, another highlight, combines music with visual arts and performances, creating a multi-sensory experience that draws thousands.

Theater: From Broadway to Local Stages

Salt Lake City’s theater scene is a blend of world-class productions and local creativity. The Eccles Theater is the star of the show, hosting Broadway tours that bring blockbuster musicals like The Lion King and Dear Evan Hansen to Utah. These performances are a major draw for theatergoers, offering a taste of New York’s Broadway in the heart of Salt Lake City. The venue also supports local productions, from ballet to modern dance, ensuring a diverse lineup that appeals to all ages.

Smaller venues like Peery’s Egyptian Theatre and the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center add to the city’s theatrical offerings. Peery’s, with its ornate Egyptian-inspired design, is a historic gem that hosts plays, musicals, and film screenings. The Rose Wagner, home to the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company and Repertory Dance Theatre, is a hub for contemporary dance and experimental performances. These venues provide a platform for local artists to shine, making Salt Lake City a nurturing ground for creative talent.

Community theater is also thriving, with groups like the Hale Centre Theatre in Sandy producing high-quality shows in an intimate setting. From family-friendly musicals to thought-provoking dramas, these productions add a personal touch to the city’s theater scene, fostering a sense of connection among audiences.

Recent and Upcoming Events in 2025

Salt Lake City’s 2025 event calendar is already shaping up to be a blockbuster. Here are some highlights of recent and upcoming events that showcase the city’s vibrant spirit:

• Concerts at the Delta Center (October 2025): The Delta Center is hosting a series of high-profile concerts, including performances on October 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 23, and 25. While specific artists for these dates haven’t been detailed in recent sources, the venue’s history of hosting stars like The Jonas Brothers and Peso Pluma suggests a lineup of major acts. Check the Delta Center’s official website for the latest updates.

• Collective Soul at The Union Event Center (January 20, 2025): Rock fans can look forward to Collective Soul’s performance at The Union Event Center, a perfect example of the venue’s ability to host iconic bands in a more intimate setting. Tickets are available through SeatGeek and other platforms.

• Utah Arts Festival (June 2025): This annual festival transforms downtown Salt Lake City into a celebration of art, music, and performance. With live music, visual art installations, and interactive activities, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s creative pulse.

• Pioneer Day (July 24, 2025): A uniquely Utah celebration, Pioneer Day honors the state’s history with parades, rodeos, and fireworks. The Days of ’47 Rodeo at the Utah State Fairpark is a highlight, featuring top-tier competitors and family-friendly entertainment.

• Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club Games: The Delta Center will be buzzing throughout 2025 with NBA and NHL games. The Utah Jazz continue to draw massive crowds, while the Utah Hockey Club’s inaugural season has fans excited for a new era of hockey in Salt Lake City. Check Vivid Seats or Ticketmaster for tickets.

• Broadway at the Eccles: The Eccles Theater’s 2025 season promises a lineup of award-winning musicals and plays. While specific shows for 2025 are still being announced, past seasons have included hits like Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Six, so expect more Broadway magic.

Tips for Enjoying Events in Salt Lake City

To make the most of your event experience in Salt Lake City, here are a few tips:

• Plan Ahead: Popular events, especially at the Delta Center and Eccles Theater, often sell out quickly. Check platforms like Ticketmaster, Vivid Seats, or SeatGeek for tickets and seating charts, and book early to secure the best seats.

• Explore VIP Options: For a premium experience, consider VIP concert tickets or meet-and-greet packages, which often include early entry, exclusive merchandise, and access to lounges. These are especially popular for concerts at larger venues.

• Check the Calendar: Websites like VisitSaltLake.com and Songkick.com offer comprehensive event calendars, helping you plan your visit around festivals, concerts, or sports events. Submitting your own event to these platforms can also help spread the word if you’re hosting something.

• Embrace the Outdoors: For outdoor events like the Twilight Concert Series or concerts at Sandy Amphitheater, bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the mountain air and open-air vibes.

• Support Local: Don’t miss out on smaller venues like Kilby Court or local festivals like the Utah Arts Festival. These events offer a chance to connect with Salt Lake City’s creative community and discover hidden gems.

Why Salt Lake City’s Events Stand Out

What makes Salt Lake City’s events truly special is the sense of community that permeates every gathering. Whether you’re cheering for the Utah Jazz, dancing at a concert, or applauding a Broadway show, you’ll feel the warmth and enthusiasm of a city that loves to celebrate. The combination of world-class venues, a diverse range of events, and the stunning natural backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains creates an experience that’s hard to beat.

From the roar of the crowd at Rice-Eccles Stadium to the quiet beauty of a symphony at Abravanel Hall, Salt Lake City offers a little bit of everything. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the music, get swept up in the drama of a live performance, or feel the thrill of a game-winning shot. No matter what brings you to Salt Lake City, the events here will leave you with memories to cherish and stories to tell.

In Short

Salt Lake City, UT, is a destination where entertainment and culture collide in the most spectacular ways. With iconic venues like the Delta Center, Eccles Theater, and Rice-Eccles Stadium, the city hosts a dazzling array of sports, concerts, and theater performances that cater to every taste. Whether you’re catching a Utah Jazz game, singing along with your favorite band, or marveling at a Broadway production, Salt Lake City’s events are sure to leave you inspired. So, grab your tickets, check the calendar, and dive into the vibrant heart of this mountain city. There’s always something happening in Salt Lake City, and you won’t want to miss a moment of it.