The Follow The Flag organization held its 12th annual By The Dawn's Early Light flag ceremony on July 4, 2026, in Pleasant Grove. The event featured the unfurling of a massive American flag spanning 12,000 square feet over the Grove Creek Trail canyon floor.
Massive Flag Spans Canyon
The ceremony, which took place between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., utilized a gargantuan flag weighing over 400 pounds. According to Follow The Flag, the red, white, and blue fabric was designed to fly 300 feet above the canyon floor.
To accompany the flag's flight, the event featured cannon fire, a horse procession, a flyover, and a choir. The organization described the ceremony as an over-the-top American celebration intended to remind attendees of the sacred nature of the land.
Mission of Patriotism
The organization's founders, Kyle Fox and Ron Nix, have noted that the simple concept of flying a large flag across a 600-foot canyon wall has achieved an impact far greater than anyone originally anticipated. The Follow The Flag team stated that the sight of the flag at the base of the mountains creates a hallowed atmosphere.
According to the organization's mission, these displays are intended to honor those who sacrifice for American freedoms and to inspire a unified people. The group described its purpose as having the responsibility to be courageous, speak out, and inspire patriotism in others, regardless of age, wealth, or religious affiliation.
Emotional Impact on Attendees
The emotional impact of the ceremony has been documented by the group through various accounts. Follow The Flag reported that mothers of fallen soldiers have stood beneath the waving flag and wept, while veterans have stood in silence with hands over their hearts during the event.
The organization also highlighted that children are often inspired and excited by the scale of the display.
Event Logistics and Access
The event was accessible to both in-person attendees and virtual viewers. Follow The Flag provided a live broadcast of the ceremony via their Facebook page and YouTube channel for those unable to visit the Grove Creek Trail in person.
For those attending on-site, the organization provided logistics including a drop-off point at the top of Grove Creek Drive and advised attendees to use city street parking while respecting local residents and driveways.
Regional Event Recognition
The By The Dawn's Early Light ceremony is recognized as a notable special event within the broader region of Salt Lake City, appearing in local festival and special event listings for 2026.
Organizational Mission
Follow The Flag continues to operate out of Pleasant Grove, maintaining missions focused on honoring military service members and providing healing for those facing trials such as health issues, war trauma, and loss. The organization uses its platform to promote the idea of a unified American people through large-scale patriotic displays.
