Local News – Heber Valley Life

Original Family Musical WHIMSY! Premieres at Heber City’s Historic Ideal Playhouse

HVL Staff — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 22:18:41 +0000

HEBER CITY, Utah — Art Around the Square, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is proud to present the world premiere of WHIMSY!, an original family musical, this October at Heber City’s historic Ideal Playhouse.

WHIMSY! was written by local playwright and artist Susette Gertsch and is directed by Laurie Turnblom, retired director of the Wasatch High School Theatre Department. WHIMSY! is a heartwarming musical fantasy celebrating imagination, courage, and the extraordinary things that happen when we dare to dream beyond the voices that whisper, “Not good enough.” Filled with original music, memorable characters, and uplifting storytelling, the production is designed to delight audiences of all ages. The Ideal Playhouse’s large LED screen and imaginative staging will help bring the magical world of WHIMSY! to life.

“WHIMSY! is a story of courage, love, and imagination. It celebrates the creative spark in every heart,” said Susette Gertsch. “We can’t wait to share this story with our community and invite audiences of all ages to experience the magic together.”

We invite you to be a part of this exciting world premiere. Video auditions remain open through August 19, and the production is seeking performers, paid production team members, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to help bring this exciting new musical to life.

WHIMSY! is made possible in part through generous support from the Heber City TAP Tax, Wasatch County TAP Tax, Art Around the Square, and additional community sponsors and donors.

Art Around the Square is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the Wasatch County and Heber Valley communities by creating high-quality performing and visual arts experiences that inspire, educate, and bring people together.

Performance Dates

October 15–17 & 22–24, 2026

Evening performances and Saturday matinees at the Ideal Playhouse, 113 North Main Street, Heber City, Utah.

Tickets Now on Sale

Be among the first to experience WHIMSY! For tickets, audition information, volunteer opportunities, and additional details, visit WhimsyMusical.com. Email questions to WhimsyUpdates@gmail.com.

Park City Opera Presents: The Tender Land

HVL Staff — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 22:31:01 +0000

This weekend, celebrate America’s 250th with an opera that captures the American spirit. Set against the open landscapes of the American West, Copland’s The Tender Land is a coming-of-age story about longing, independence, and resilience.

Don’t miss this cast of nationally acclaimed singers bringing Copland’s timeless score to life, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Before the curtain rises, enjoy complimentary American bites by Chef Galen Zamarra, a cash bar with a signature cocktail by Alpine Distillery, and folk music!

Join us July 18 & 19th at Temple Har Shalom—get your tickets today!

About The Tender Land:

Deeply rooted in the American spirit, Copland’s The Tender Land portrays one young woman’s quiet but radical act of choosing her own future. Set against the open landscapes of the American West, The Tender Land is a coming-of-age story about longing, independence, and resilience in the face of hardship.

As Laurie stands on the brink of her high school graduation, the arrival of a handsome outsider awakens dreams of a life beyond her family’s farm. When hope, love, and disappointment collide, she must decide whether to remain within the life she knows or step boldly into the unknown.

Transform Your Yard and Save Water This Summer

HVL Staff — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:52:22 +0000

More water is used in Utah’s residential landscapes than all the indoor home water uses combined! As the population continues to grow and the water supply becomes less consistent, it’s crucial to lower our outdoor water use. This doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. In fact, water-efficient landscapes can be more stunning and beautiful than traditional lawn-dominant yards. The key is reducing the amount of grass you have and replacing it with attractive waterwise plants, and there’s an incentive for doing it! Details can be found at utahwatersavers.com.

Unsure which plants to use in your landscape conversion project? Check out the following plant lists specific for Utah landscapes:

Wasatch Coin & History Club Invites Community to Explore Ancient Trade Routes at July Meeting

HVL Staff — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:58:28 +0000

HEBER VALLEY, Utah — History enthusiasts, coin collectors, and curious community members are invited to attend the next meeting of the Wasatch Coin & History Club on Tuesday, July 28, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Wasatch County Public Library.

The meeting will feature a presentation by Club President Mark Avery titled “Ancient Trade Routes: Kingdoms & Coins (Part II – Roman, Bactrian and Chinese Empires along the Silk Road).” The program will explore how coins helped shape commerce and culture across some of history’s most influential civilizations, offering attendees a fascinating look at the role of currency along the legendary Silk Road.

Held in the library’s Back Briefing Room on the main floor (650 E. 1200 South, Heber City), the monthly gathering welcomes collectors of all experience levels—from seasoned numismatists to those simply interested in history.

The Wasatch Coin & History Club focuses on ancient, world, and U.S. coins, tokens, artifacts, and the stories behind them. Attendees are encouraged to bring coins or historical items to share with the group, along with the stories that make them meaningful. Meetings also include prize drawings featuring coins and other collectibles.

The club regularly hosts presentations from members and guest speakers, creating opportunities to learn about numismatics, archaeology, history, and related topics. Meeting facilities include audiovisual equipment and presentation space for speakers.

Everyone is welcome to attend, including families, beginners, and lifelong collectors—”young and young at heart.”

The Wasatch Coin & History Club is supported by several regional and national numismatic businesses, including All About Coins, Coinzio, Freewater Coins, Scotsman Coin & Auctions, Ken Dorney Rare Coins, Forum Coins, Heritage Coin Auctions, Vaughn Rare Coins, and Interesting Coins.

For more information, contact Mark Avery at 615-482-9747 or popsavery1@gmail.com, or Lee McKenzie at leefmck@gmail.com.

Photo by Art Institute of Chicago on Unsplash

Residents Invited to Explore How Wasatch County Government Works Through Free Citizens Academy

HVL Staff — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 15:07:29 +0000

Ever wonder how local government really works?

Join our Wasatch Citizens Academy and get an inside look at the departments and people who keep our community running every day. From public works and property taxes to the sheriff’s office and development services, you’ll learn how decisions are made and how services are delivered during this six-session program. This program is free for Wasatch County residents.

The curriculum will include information about development services, which includes planning, zoning, and building; taxes, community services, emergency services, and administrative services, and includes facility tours and meeting with county staff.

Questions? Contact Dan Fillmore at dfillmore@wasatchcounty.gov

2026 Citizens Academy Dates:

July 16: Sheriff’s Office

July 23 & 30: No classes due to Demolition Derby and Rodeo

August 6: Tax Services

August 13: Administrative Services

August 20: Development Services

August 27: Library and Senior Center

September 3: Parks and Recreation

All sessions begin at 6 p.m. We ask that you only register if you can commit to all six sessions.

Source https://www.wasatchcounty.gov/

Old West Futurity Returns to Heber Valley with Million-Dollar Stakes and Western Entertainment

HVL Staff — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:16:51 +0000

HEBER VALLEY, Utah — The Old West Futurity is set to return to Heber Valley June 20, bringing some of the nation’s top horse trainers, competitors, owners, and equine athletes to the Wasatch County Event Complex for elite competition and western tradition.

The annual event has become a significant draw for the region, attracting participants and spectators from across the western United States. Organizers expect the week-long competition to generate tourism activity throughout Heber Valley while showcasing the area’s hospitality, recreation opportunities, and western heritage.

The competition will culminate on Saturday, June 20, with the highly anticipated Road to the Million Championship Night. The event will feature the top Pre-Futurity Heading, Heeling, and Breakaway competitors competing for more than $2.5 million in prize money, including the opportunity to earn a coveted $1 million bonus.

Championship Night offers more than just world-class competition. Attendees will also enjoy live performances by acclaimed western entertainers Dave Stamey and Gunnar Latham, creating an evening that blends western sports, music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Gates for the championship event open at 6 p.m., with opening ceremonies scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Wasatch County Event Complex in Heber City.

Tickets are available for $35 for general admission, while children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

For residents and visitors alike, the Old West Futurity offers a unique opportunity to experience the highest levels of western equine competition while supporting an event that continues to bring national attention to Heber Valley’s rich ranching and rodeo traditions.

Additional information and tickets are available through the Old West Futurity website.

Expanded July 4th Red, White, And Blue Festival to Celebrate America250 In Heber Valley, Utah

HVL Staff — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:47:53 +0000

HEBER VALLEY, UTAH (June 4, 2026)—In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Heber Valley annual Red, White, and Blue Festival is expanding into a three-day patriotic celebration from July 2–4, 2026, bringing together live music, community traditions, outdoor recreation, art, theater, and family-friendly festivities across the valley.

The festival will feature returning favorites including the Red, White, and Blue Parade, Main-to-Main 5K and 10K races, Freedom Trains aboard the Heber Valley Railroad, Midway’s Small-Town 4th Celebration, and fireworks over Heber Valley. This year also introduces several new events, including 1776 The Musical live production, a community mosaic art project, and a noteworthy tribute band outdoor concert at the park.

“This year’s festival is designed to be more than a Fourth of July event. It’s a celebration of America’s history, our local traditions, and the spirit of small-town patriotism that defines this valley” said Jessica Broadhead, Deputy Director at Heber Valley Tourism, Chamber, and Economic Development, and board member for the Red, White, and Blue Festival non-profit. “With the nation preparing to commemorate America250, we wanted to expand the experience and create something residents and visitors can enjoy across multiple days.”

Festivities begin Thursday, July 2, with the popular Heber Market on Main. On Friday, July 3, festival attendees can enjoy a free outdoor concert featuring American Soldier, a Toby Keith tribute band, at Heber City Main Street Park. Saturday, July 4, delivers a full day of events across the valley, including races, a parade, family activities, art exhibits, live entertainment, family-friendly trains, theatre performances, fireworks, and small-town celebrations in both Heber and Midway.

2026 Red, White, and Blue Festival Schedule of Events

Thursday, July 2

5:00 – 9:00 pm: Heber Market on Main featuring live music, food booths, and local artisans

Friday, July 3

7:00 – 10:00 pm: Free concert highlighting American Soldier, a Toby Keith tribute band

Saturday, July 4

Heber City

6:30 am: Hot air balloon activities at Heber Valley Airport

7:00 am: Main-to-Main 5K and 10K Run/Walk at Heber City Park

8:00 am: Chuckwagon breakfast and flag ceremony at Heber City Park

9:00 am: Red, White, and Blue Parade in Heber City

9:00, 11:30 am, 2:00 pm: Freedom Trains aboard the Heber Valley Railroad

10:00 am – 4:30 pm: Festival vendors and market at Heber City Park

10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Cornhole tournament and family activities at Heber City Park

12:00 – 1:00 pm: Live outdoor concert at Heber City Park

12:00 pm: Free hot dog lunch at Heber City Park

1:30 pm: Pie eating contest at Heber City Park

2:00 pm: 1776 The Musical at Timpanogos Valley Theatre

2:00 pm: Guns vs. Hoses Tug o’ War competition at Heber City Park

2:45 pm: Rootbeer chugging contest at Heber City Park

3:00 pm: Strong Man competition at Heber City Park

Midway

6:00 am: Cannon blast in Midway

7:00 am: Flag ceremony and performances at Midway Town Square

8:00 am: Pancake breakfast at Midway Town Square

8:00 am – 4:00 pm: Wasatch Plein Air Paradise art exhibit at Midway Town Square

8:30 am: Bike parade at Midway Town Square

8:00 – 10:00 pm: Utah Symphony performance at Midway Town Square

10:00 pm: Fireworks from Memorial Hill over the valley

The three-day celebration includes traditional small-town festivities and patriotic activities across the valley. Located just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, 50 minutes from Provo Airport, and only 25 minutes from Park City, the Heber Valley continues to position itself as one of Utah’s premier destinations for summer events, outdoor recreation, and family travel. Additional festival details, registrations, and event updates are available at HeberRedWhiteAndBlueFest.com. High-res images of the day’s festivities are available here.

Heber City Main Street Clean-Up This Saturday June 6

Rachel Kahler — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:11:13 +0000

Main Street Clean-Up Day is scheduled for this Saturday, June 6 from 9 AM to 11 AM. Heber City Public Works has scheduled a street sweeper to clean the gutters along Main Street to prepare for the day.

Please do your part to take a little time this week, or join us on Saturday, to sweep sidewalks, pick up trash, pull weeds, clean windows, and spruce up the area around their storefronts.

Our goal is simple: to encourage downtown business owners to take a little extra pride in their properties and help create a clean, welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike as we head into the busy summer season.

Thank you for helping us keep Main Street looking its best. And pass the information through your network and social channels!

Wasatch County to Celebrate Grand Opening of First Asphalt Pumptrack

HVL Staff — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:08:04 +0000

Residents and riders of all ages are invited to celebrate the grand opening of Wasatch County’s first asphalt pumptrack on Friday, May 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Southfield Park.

The event is hosted by Wasatch County Parks & Recreation in partnership with Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce, Wasatch Trails Foundation, Wasatch Community Foundation, and Avid Trails.

The new asphalt pumptrack is designed for bikes, scooters, skateboards, and other wheeled sports, creating a fun and accessible space for riders of all skill levels. Community members are encouraged to bring their bikes and experience the new feature firsthand.

Attendees will also have the chance to enter a giveaway to win a Specialized P.3 Dirt Jumper bike.

Event organizers say the evening is all about celebrating community, outdoor recreation, and the addition of a new space for local families and riders to enjoy throughout the season.

The grand opening will take place at Southfield Park on Friday, May 29, from 5–8 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Introduction and Ready to Use Resources for Heber

HVL Staff — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 23:36:19 +0000

In the Heber Valley, winter still lingers in the landscape, and our yards sit quietly in that in-between season—resting, but not for long. Before buds begin to swell and spring takes hold, this is the ideal time to think ahead and set your landscape up for a healthy, successful growing season.

This month, we’re highlighting timely tips for pruning ornamental trees and sharing details about upcoming free educational landscaping classes at the Wasatch County Library. Whether you’re maintaining a mature yard or dreaming up a new design, this is the season to learn, plan, and prepare for growth.

Monthly landscaping blurb:
“The best time of year to prune ornamental trees is the latter part of winter, while the trees are still dormant and buds have not yet begun to swell. This causes less stress on the trees, and it’s easy to see the branching patterns without leaves. Prune out dead and diseased branches, potentially hazardous branches, and crossing or crowded branches to maintain tree health and improve form. Interested in adding more trees to your yard? See how you could receive a treebate while participating in the Utah Water Savers landscape incentive program: https://www.utahwatersavers.com/.”

Upcoming Free educational landscaping classes in your area:
Our free educational landscaping classes are available to anyone and any skill level. Throughout the growing season we will invite experts from across academia, professional services, etc. to speak on a variety of topics. Central Utah Water staff will also teach classes that help those who are interested in participating in our rebate/incentive programs ultimately succeed in that endeavor.
Visit the website for the complete class schedule: https://cuwcd.gov/classes.html

Topic: Qualifying for a Landscape Incentive
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

Time: 10:30 – 12:00 pm
Location: Wasatch County Library
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/qualifying-for-a-landscape-incentive-tickets-1981452918017

Topic: Localscapes: Creating Your Ideal Utah Yard
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Time: 10:30 – 12:00 pm
Location: Wasatch County Library

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/localscapes-creating-your-ideal-utah-yard-tickets-1981453302166

Topic: Planting Bed Design
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

Time: 10:30 – 11:30 am
Location: Wasatch County Library
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/planting-bed-design-tickets-1981453884909