Salt Lake County will celebrate Welcoming Week from September 10 through 19 with a free community festival and a proclamation signed by mayors from across the valley, according to a September 8 statement. The annual national campaign aims to build stronger connections and celebrate stories and experiences that strengthen communities.
The Salt Lake County Office for New Americans led the planning for this year's celebration in collaboration with city and community partners. The centerpiece of the week is the Better Together Neighborhood Fest: The Courage to Connect, which was scheduled for Saturday, September 12, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the South Salt Lake Community Center, located at 2531 South 400 East.
This free and family-friendly festival features cultural performances, community workshops, a panel discussion, and a screening of #SheBelongs. Local vendors and community organizations will also be on site to share resources. The event carries the 2026 Welcoming Week theme, Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect.
South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood was scheduled to read a proclamation during the opening ceremony at noon, a document signed by mayors from various communities across Salt Lake County. Mayor Jenny Wilson stated that Welcoming Week serves as a reminder that strong communities are built through relationships and that listening to neighbors strengthens the community.
The celebration was organized with support from the Office for New Americans, the City of South Salt Lake, and various local businesses and community organizations. The Office for New Americans intends to continue its work with partners following the conclusion of Welcoming Week.
