IVINS — Members of the military, active and retired, can enjoy free entry at Snow Canyon State Park this Saturday at the second annual Utah State Parks Military Appreciation Day, sponsored by the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation.

In recognition of veterans and the U.S. military, Saturday’s Utah State Parks Military Appreciation Day will feature a lively flag presentation by Santa Clara Scout Troop 1882, with Peter Hansen coordinating the effort.

Everyone visiting Snow Canyon State Park on Saturday will be treated to a patriotic display. Members of Santa Clara Scout Troop 1882 will line the park’s south entrance in a show of appreciation for all veterans arriving to the park that day.

Celebrations like this are important, Utah State Parks Deputy Director Jeff Rasmussen said, because it helps people remember the sacrifices these men and women make.

“Their efforts have secured the freedoms we enjoy every day,” Rasmussen said, “and we want to recognize the sacrifices they have made to keep us safe.”

In fact, all Utah State Parks will offer free day-use entrance and will have special activities and events planned on Military Appreciation Day.

Throughout Utah, celebrations and activities such as pancake breakfasts, 5K races, flag ceremonies, musket demonstrations, canoe rentals, and even civil war style drills will be featured at state parks in honor of the nation’s military.

“All of our parks have added new opportunities over the past few years,” Rasmussen said. “If you haven’t been in a while, rest assured you will be pleasantly surprised with all the fun activities we have to offer.”

Utah State Parks Military Appreciation Day is marked each year on the second Saturday of August.  For more information, contact Utah State Parks and Recreation at (801) 538-7220 or stateparks.utah.gov

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