As the sun sets behind the red cliffs of St. George, the D on the hill glows against the desert sky. For more than a century, that hillside letter has stood as a symbol of Southern Utah’s pride in its university and the campus and community’s shared tradition of working hard for the benefit of others. Each spring, that spirit comes to life during D-Week.
Hosted by Utah Tech University, D-Week is more than a lineup of events. Dating back to 1915, when the student body constructed the D on the hill, this spirit week honors longstanding traditions that continue to unite students, alumni and community members.
D-Week 2026 begins Monday, April 6, with Brooks’ City Tour, featuring pop-up parties offering deals, promotions and giveaways at local businesses and featured Art in the City bison throughout the day.
Trailblazer baseball takes on the University of Utah on Tuesday, April 7, at 4 PM at Utah Tech’s Hurst Baseball Complex. The matchup brings a spark of rivalry and an opportunity for fans to rally together in blue and red.
Tradition continues off the field with The Great Race, a friendly competition dating back to a 1960s bike race through St. George. Over the decades, the event has evolved into a 10-person relay featuring a mix of running, swimming, pedaling and navigating the infamous mud pit. This year’s race begins at 5 PM on Friday, April 10, in Greater Zion Stadium.
Friday evening also celebrates Brooks the Bison’s 10th birthday. Introduced during D-Week in 2016, Brooks will be honored at the Brooks’ Birthday Carnival from 6 PM to 8 PM on Encampment Mall. The family-friendly event features games, entertainment and activities.
On Saturday, April 11, students, alumni and community members will hike Black Ridge to repaint the iconic D. The tradition begins at 8 AM, with breakfast served as participants continue a ritual more than a century in the making.
Additional events throughout the week highlight student leadership, alumni achievement and community engagement, including the Trailblazer Queen Pageant, live music performances and award ceremonies.
For updated details on all D-Week festivities, visit utahtech.edu/dweek.
