
From Soups & S’mores to Spooks & Sparkles: Celebrate 150 Years in Orderville
Nestled within the scenic Long Valley of western Kane County, Orderville, Utah, is a small community with a remarkable past. Founded in 1875 under the United Order as directed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Brigham Young, it flourished as one of the most successful and long-lasting experiments in communal living. This unified effort helped Orderville quickly grow into a self-sustaining settlement and, for a time, attracted many newcomers. Though national legislation and internal pressures led to the eventual dissolution of the Order in the mid-1880s, the town’s spirit of cooperation lives on. Today, with a population of around 600, Orderville continues to celebrate its heritage through community events that bring residents and visitors together.
Soup Town Days (April 19, 2025)
Soup Town Days launches the year’s festivities at the North Events Center. Pioneer demonstrators begin setting up booths at 10 AM, opening them for public viewing from noon until 3 PM. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Soup Contest requires all entries to be submitted by April 5. On the day of the event, participants must have a 6-8 quart crockpot of soup at the venue by 10:30 a.m., with judging from 10:45–11:45 a.m. Free soup samples will be served from noon to 2:00 p.m., offering a warm, delicious lunch to everyone. Later in the day, grab your seats at the Carroll Arena for Lawn Mower Races starting at 5:00 p.m. (To participate, contact Shane Frost at 435-691-2382 and pay the $25 registration fee.) A new feature this year is a Wiffle Ball Tournament, with details soon to be announced.
Orderville’s 150th Anniversary Celebration (July 4 & 5, 2025)
This summer marks an incredible milestone—Orderville’s 150th anniversary. On July 4, a free breakfast at the town park will fuel a morning of fun, followed by a parade on Main Street. Afterward, festivities continue at the park with games, burgers, and plenty of hometown camaraderie. That evening, the Carroll Arena hosts a lively rodeo, and the night concludes with a spectacular fireworks show. On July 5, the celebration focuses on the rich history of local ancestors and community traditions. There will be interactive Pioneer Village booths where you can learn to make bread, churn butter, and even try your hand at quilting. Local experts will also share insights into the area’s geology during the “Orderville Rocks” portion of the day. Don’t miss the chance to contribute stories and photos to a new memory book by contacting Merlin or Christine Esplin. Festivities continue with a “Rock Thru the Ages” dance and a two-man saw contest. Be sure to stick around for the special moment when 150 people roast s’mores simultaneously in honor of the 150th birthday.
Halloween Bash (Near Halloween, Date & Time TBA)
As autumn settles in, Orderville embraces the spooky season with a community-wide celebration on Halloween night. Expect hauntingly good food, themed games, sweet treats, and lively music. Costumes are highly encouraged, making the evening a fantastic family-friendly event. Time is to be announced, so keep an eye on local bulletins for details.
Holiday Light Parade and Events (First Week of December)
Rounding out the year, Orderville’s cherished holiday tradition lights up the first week of December. For more than 25 years, townsfolk have gathered around a towering pine in the heart of the community. Kindergarten and first-grade students serenade the crowd with cheerful carols before the tree sparkles to life. Over the years, the celebration has grown to include a light parade, dinner, visits from Santa, and a dance party in the center of Main Street. As each new strand of lights is strung, Orderville’s communal spirit shines brighter, closing out the year in a warm glow that honors the town’s enduring legacy.
Mark your calendars and experience the heart of Orderville’s 150th anniversary celebrations! From the Soup Town Days in April, where you can savor delicious soups and witness exciting lawn mower races, to the grand 150th Anniversary Celebration in July, filled with parades, rodeos, and pioneer activities, Orderville promises a year of festivities. Don’t miss the Halloween Bash and the enchanting Holiday Light Parade, where the town’s spirit shines brightest. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking small-town charm, Orderville welcomes you to celebrate its rich heritage and enduring community spirit throughout the year. For more info on Orderville visit townoforderville.com