Though some find onions to be a most smelly bulb, organizers of Payson's Golden Onion Days celebration said the festivities' namesake has given them a taste of sweet success.

The celebration takes its name from the aromatic yet edible biennial plant that many of Payson's settlers grew in their fields.Running from Friday, Aug. 30, through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, it is the last of many such community events in Utah County. Bolstered by the holiday weekend, it's the last event of the season to draw large crowds to Payson, said publicity chairwoman Carol Butler said.

Similar to many other community celebrations, this year's theme is "Celebrate Freedom," a tribute to returning Utah National Guard troops. Butler said activities scheduled for this year's event will play on the theme and also manage to show off what she calls "a most unique little community."

For example, the annual Iron Man Triathlon begins at the city's Spring Lake suburb, the two-man Best Ball Golf Tournament is held at the city's Gladstan Golf Course, the Labor Day Mammoth Parade runs from the high school down to the city's southern borders, and helicopter rides give customers a quick tour of Payson, she said.

View Comments

The Golden Onion Days Committee has gotten very excited over the last two years about trying to spread the word about the city. "What better way is there to show our city than by scheduling events around it?" Butler asked.

The committee has retained most of last year's members, including Butler and chairman Fred Swain, so perhaps it's not too surprising that most of the same events as last year will be held.

Included in those events are spectator-oriented activities such as arts and craft shows, displays in the park and the community theater's annual production (this year's musical is "Fiddler on the Roof") - which should accommodate both large crowds and a wide age group.

However, the celebration's schedule still has events for those on a limited budget as well - including a children's arts and craft show, band concerts and talent contests.

Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.