Local traditions and culture in Utah

Utah is a predominantly Mormon state. For this reason, the sale of alcohol is restricted. Places that sell alcoholic beverages must provide food with the purchase of alcohol. Beer that is sold is no more than 3.2% alcohol. Certain places are private clubs were alcohol is sold. A special membership is required to enter. Visitors can purchase a 2 week membership for a small fee.

Utah has the youngest population of any state, but it also has the highest birthrate of any state in the nation. It appears that Mormon families, which comprise the majority of the population, have lots of children. It is also rumored that polygamy- the practice of having several wives, is still practiced in Utah. Interestingly, Mormonism prohibits the consumption of alcohol, yet more babies are born in Utah than anywhere else in the country.

The majority of Utah's population is Mormon. Mormon's believe in Jesus Christ as their savior and in the Bible, but also abide by the Book of Mormon. The Mormon religion emphasizes the family unit as most important. Alcohol, cigarettes and sex outside of marriage is prohibited.

The traditional Mormon doctrine supports polygamy, which is not considered adultery. Although this is illegal in the United States, it is believed to still be practiced in Utah.

If you really want to visit Temple Square, but don't want to be harassed by the Mormons, consider visiting on a Sunday. They are still open, but since Mormons view Sunday as a holy day, they don’t go out. You’ll basically have the place to yourself.

That also goes for just about anything else in Utah. If you want to go shopping in peace, go on a Sunday. Crossroads mall in Downtown Salt Lake City will be busy even on Sunday, but the outlaying suburban malls are nice and quiet. Traffic is also a lot lighter on Sundays!

Not really a tip, but Utah has an enormous Mormon population! Look in the bedside drawers at hotels... generally you'll just the Bible left by the Gideons. In a lot of hotels here, you'll also see the Book of Mormon in there. Kind of 'culturally different' if you ask me.

Meet the Mormon people at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. They can tell you everything about their faith and culture.

By the way I think it's the only interesting thing about Salt Lake City itselve. It was one big Construction Site when I was there.

Link to my:Salt Lake City Page

It is hard to go anywhere in Salt Lake City without feeling the strong aura of wholesome family values. It is evident in the local art, architecture, laws, and daily interactions with area residents and visitors.

Dumb Utah Laws
It is against the law to fish from horseback.
When a person reaches the age of 50, he/she can then marry their cousin.
It is illegal not to drink milk.
It is illegal to detonate any nuclear weapon. You can have them, but you just can't detonate them.
Birds have the right of way on all highways.
A husband is responsible for every criminal act committed by his wife while she is in his presence.
You're not allowed to sell beverages containing more than 3.2% alcohol.
It's legal for restaurants to serve wine with meals, but only if you ask for the wine list.
It is considered an offense to hunt whales.
Kaysville
You must have identification to enter a convienence store after dark.
Logan
Women may not swear.
Monroe
Daylight must be visible between partners on a dance floor.
Provo
Throwing snowballs will result in a $50 fine.
Salt Lake City
No one may walk down the street carrying a paper bag containing a violin.
Trout Creek
Pharmacists may not sell gunpowder to cure headaches.