Growing up in Utah, July 24th was always a day of celebration. Pioneer Day wasn’t just a state holiday—it was part of who we were. We celebrated the faith, courage, and resilience of the early Latter-day Saint pioneers who made the long, difficult journey west to find a place where they could worship freely.

So, when our family moved to Missouri, we knew we had to keep that tradition alive.

Each year on Pioneer Day, we gather as a family to remember and honor those early Saints. We usually invite the missionaries over for dinner—it just feels right to include them on such a meaningful day. One of our favorite traditions is making homemade butter together. It’s a simple act, but it connects us to a time when everything was made from scratch and nothing came easy.

Sometimes we plan visits to local Church history sites. Missouri is filled with powerful reminders of our pioneer heritage—from Far West to Liberty Jail. Walking those grounds helps us feel closer to those who came before, many of whom experienced deep trials and persecution here before continuing on to Utah. Their strength still echoes in these hills.

We also love to make pioneer-inspired treats and do simple crafts with the kids. It’s a way to bring the stories to life—whether we’re making treats or just sitting outside telling stories about the journey west.
Pioneer Day isn’t just about covered wagons and bonnets. It’s about remembering the sacrifices that were made for faith, family, and freedom. More than 70,000 pioneers traveled by foot, wagon, and handcart to Utah between 1847 and 1869. Many never saw the end of the trail. But they pressed forward with hope, determination, and trust in the Lord.

Now, in our own small way, we try to honor them—not just with activities and treats, but by living the kind of faith they exemplified. Pioneer Day may look a little different here in Missouri, but the spirit is the same. And that’s something worth passing on.