Taylorsville City announces last minute changes to Taylorsville Dayzz in wake of WestFest shooting
Jun 18, 2025, 2:14 PM | Updated: 6:48 pm
FILE — Fairgoers enjoy a ride during Taylorsville Dayzz at 5100 South 2700 West in Taylorsville, Friday, June 27, 2014. (Michael Tessier/Deseret News)
(Michael Tessier/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — In the wake of a recent festival shooting in West Valley, neighboring Taylorsville City is making last-minute changes to its community celebration, Taylorsville Dayzz.
According to the city, the adjustments are being made to “reflect the city’s commitment to maintaining public safety.”
“We’re making every effort to maintain a fun and safe environment for Taylorsville Dayzz,”
Each year, Taylorsville Dayzz includes a carnival, parade, car show, 5K and kids’ run and fireworks. While the events aren’t changing, some details are being tweaked.
FILE — Ted Naanes and his daughter Julie admire the cars in the car show at Taylorsville Dayzz on Saturday, June 27, 2015, at Valley Regional Park. (Scott G. Winterton/Deseret News)
Adult rides at the carnival will now close at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Previously, they were scheduled to run until 11 p.m. on Friday and 10 p.m. on Saturday. However, the city wants to limit gathering time between rides closing and fireworks.
There will be more lighting added throughout the event, as well.
Many Taylorsville Dayzz festivities are held at Valley Regional Park. City personnel explained that they are adjusting the carnival’s layout “to decompress any gathering crowds.”
During events, the city plans to increase law enforcement presence. Furthermore, gang loitering is prohibited.
A press release from the city said the city council passed a resolution allowing police to disperse gatherings of individuals known to have affiliations to gangs.
“While it is impossible to plan for every contingency, we believe these additional security measures and adjustments will help provide a safe environment for Taylorsville Dayzz,” said Taylorsville Police Chief Brady Cottam. “The safety of our residents and visitors is always our top priority.”
Taylorsville mayor addresses WestFest shooting
“As neighbors, we share in the (West Valley) community’s grief,” said Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson. “We are saddened that this tragedy happened at their own city festival that, like ours, is meant to be a community celebration, and we remain deeply committed to ensuring Taylorsville Dayzz remains a joyous, secure experience for all.”
The 29th Taylorsville Dayzz festival kicks off June 26, just shy of two weeks following the shooting at West Valley’s community celebration.
