President Dallin H. Oaks and Sister Kristen M. Oaks made a surprise appearance during the Days of '47 Parade in Salt Lake City on Friday, July 24, 2026. The couple rode in a vehicle along the parade route, following grand marshal Camille N. Johnson and her husband, Brother Douglas R. Johnson.
Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson served as this year's parade grand marshal, marking the second time a woman has held the honor. The first female grand marshal was Sister Jean B. Bingham in 2022.
In an interview held before the parade, Johnson stated she was thrilled to honor her own pioneer ancestors and celebrate pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints globally. The 2026 festivities featured the theme Like, Learn, Love Pioneers.
Various Utah stakes from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints created floats for the event. Many volunteers drew inspiration from stories of ancestors, pioneers, and temple work.
Several floats received awards during the parade, including the Salt Lake East Mill Creek North Stake, which won the Sweepstakes Award. Other award recipients included the Bluffdale Utah South Stake for Outstanding Animation, the West Jordan Utah Wasatch Meadows Stake (Spanish) for the Legacy Award, and the South Jordan Utah Glenmoor Stake for the People's Choice Award.
Other awards presented included the Spirit of Faith Award, the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Award, the Brigham Young Award, the Ensign Award, the Utah Award, the Children's Choice Award, the Community Award, the Hilda Erickson Award, and the Pioneers Award.
