Sugarhouse Fireworks
Happy Independence Day! The whole family got together (my in-laws, and my brother) for a day at the water park, then headed to Sugarhouse Park to hang out under a canopy playing games and trying some new food truck tastes before ending the night with an awesome fireworks show.
Our second year coming to Sugarhouse Park we’ve learned a few tips for an even better next year!
Tip 1: Parking
Parking was already difficult by 4pm with people annoyingly saving remaining parking spots with their bodies and chairs preventing cars already there from parking. Next year I think we will definitely try to start parking by 3pm near the exit.
Tip 2: Setting Up
Making it an all-day event was fun! People were grilling, set up tents, and basically camping out until dark. A wagon and canopy were smart to beat the heat. When the sun no longer beat down on us, we took down our canopy and brought it to the car parked nearby.
The ideal spot had bathrooms nearby, music directly below, food trucks on the side, and a slope of hill to play some outdoor games.
Tip 3: Food
An ice chest is a good idea. Bring extra water bottles and ice (preferably dried ice!), as it was much hotter than we anticipated and all liquids started disappearing! The food trucks were awesome! You can never have enough snacks. We brought crackers, frozen Capri Sun and lunchables for the kids; BBQ chips, granola bars, pudding, and soda for adults.
We decided on Korean BBQ in a bowl from a food truck for dinner! The beef bowl was delish, and they gave out free potstickers to first-time customers. I can’t wait to try the other food trucks next time!
Tip 4: With Children
All day is a long time to wait for kids! Glow sticks are a fun treat for them when it starts getting dark, but not yet fireworks time. Balls, bubbles, board books, and other outdoor activities will help them use their energy. And of course, bring lots of extra snacks, (cold, maybe even frozen) drinks, and baby bottles/diaper supplies. Don’t want to run out of those!
Also, blankets came in handy when nightfall came and they fell asleep.
Tip 5: Activities
Sing along with the band, dance to the DJ’s mix, play some ball, roll down the hill, take a nap, or watch what the kids do to have fun!
Tip 6: Getting Home
Even after waiting an hour after the festivities and playing a game of Dominoes (Mexican Train) before being gently kicked out by the park cops, we still hit traffic pretty badly since we had to re-park closer to where our kids were sleeping so we could haul all the gear without leaving them helpless and alone.
My opinion on this one is find a GREAT parking spot, plan a back route to get out of there, and walk over to where you need to be. You might not have to wait for traffic to start moving, and you might beat the rush!
Love, Kat
