St. George Word of Mouth Weekly: MLK Weekend Recap & What's Happening This Week

January 18, 2026 — What an incredible MLK weekend we just experienced in Southern Utah! Hot air balloons painted the morning sky, our stunning new City Hall was unveiled, athletes conquered 333 stairs, and the business community's finest were honored at the Chamber Gala. Here's your complete weekend recap plus everything coming up this week.

Weekend Highlights: A Historic MLK Weekend

City Hall Grand Opening & Heritage Day

Yesterday marked a historic milestone as St. George unveiled its stunning new $45 million City Hall at 61 South Main Street, according to the City of St. George. Mayor Jimmie Hughes led the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 AM, followed by the beloved Heritage Day tradition of free root beer floats served in the new Civic Room from noon to 2 PM.

The address—61 South Main—pays deliberate tribute to the 309 founding families who settled here in 1861, honoring St. George's 164th birthday. The celebration coincided with free admission throughout the day to multiple city attractions including the St. George Carousel, Thunder Junction train rides, SunTran bus service, St. George Recreation Center, Sand Hollow Aquatic Center, and St. George Art Museum.

Thousands of residents explored the new facility's expanded Council Chambers, beautiful atrium, and a stunning mosaic mural crafted by St. George community members.

Up and Away Hot Air Balloon Festival

The fifth annual Up and Away Hot Air Balloon Festival brought approximately 30 hot air balloons to Staheli Family Farm in Washington for two magical days of flight and family entertainment.

Morning mass ascensions from 7-10 AM painted the sky with color against the backdrop of Southern Utah's iconic red rock landscape, while the signature evening Balloon Glows at 6:30 PM created unforgettable photo opportunities as illuminated balloons lit up the twilight sky. The festival also featured over 100 vendors, food trucks, the Rising Star Talent Competition, and Saturday's Classic Car Show.

Dragon's Tail Stair Climb Challenge

Congratulations to all the Dragon Kings, Dragon Queens, and finishers who conquered 333 stairs at Saturday's Dragon's Tail Stair Climb Challenge at Tech Ridge! The second annual event, hosted by the City of St. George, saw athletes push their limits across the 5K, Sprint Challenge, and grueling Endurance Challenge where competitors descended and climbed the brutal staircase until the last ones standing earned their royal titles.

Chamber Foundation Gala & Awards Night

Southern Utah's business leaders gathered at the Black Desert Resort Ballroom for the 2026 St. George Chamber Foundation Gala and Awards Night. According to the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, the prestigious evening honored outstanding businesses and community leaders with awards in five categories: the Paragon Award for established businesses, Hometown Hero Award for community-focused businesses, Rising Star Award for new ventures, Thrive Award for high-growth companies, and Trailblazer Award for innovative businesses driving positive change. The sold-out event also supported the Chamber Foundation scholarship fund for Southern Utah tourism and hospitality industry employees.

This Week's Events

The Duttons - Final Shows! (Through January 20)

Last chance to see America's Most Musical Family! The Duttons wrap up their limited engagement at Rattlin' D Playhouse in Hurricane with final performances through Tuesday. Three generations of exceptional musicality perform country, bluegrass, and classical favorites in an intimate dinner theater setting. Dinner at 6 PM, show at 7 PM. Reservations required at 417-332-2772.

Bills Rights & Bites Policy Lunch (January 21)

With the Utah Legislative Session underway, business owners won't want to miss this timely policy luncheon at the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday at noon. Per the Chamber's events calendar, the event is sponsored by Intermountain Health and features expert speakers breaking down complex legislative issues affecting Southern Utah businesses with time for Q&A. Registration required at (435) 628-1650.

Elkington Founder Speaker Series: Andrew Smith (January 22)

Gain insights from successful entrepreneurs at this prestigious speaking series on Wednesday at 11 AM. Andrew Smith will share his experiences building and scaling businesses, navigating challenges, and the principles that drive entrepreneurial success. The keynote presentation is followed by audience Q&A and networking opportunities. Contact the Chamber at (435) 628-1650 for registration.

Library Programs Throughout the Week

The Washington County Library System offers free programs at locations across the region including Story Time at Washington, Santa Clara, and Hurricane libraries; Teen Programs with after-school activities at multiple branches; Homeschool Sessions at Washington Library; Crochet Club at Hurricane Library; and the Write On writers' workshop at St. George Library. Visit washco.libcal.com for complete schedules.

Community News & Updates

Vote on Downtown Public Art

St. George residents can now have their say on what public art comes next in downtown roundabouts, as reported by St George News. Cast your vote at sgcityutah.gov to help shape the visual character of our city streets.

Soup n' Bowl Fundraiser Tickets Available

Tickets for the 18th annual Soup n' Bowl fundraiser at the St. George Art Museum are now on sale, according to St George News. This beloved community event supports local arts programs and features delicious soups from local restaurants served in handcrafted bowls you get to keep.

Mayor Rosenberg Concludes 29 Years of Service

Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to Mayor Rick Rosenberg on completing 29 years of dedicated service to Santa Clara, as covered by St George News. His decades of leadership have helped shape the community we enjoy today.

Utah Film Commission Boosts Local Economy

The Utah Film Commission recently announced approval of three new productions for state film incentives, generating an estimated economic impact of $2.6 million and creating over 165 new jobs filming across Washington and Kane counties, per St George News.

Looking Ahead

• Chamber Eats - Cafe Sabor (January 28) - Networking meets exceptional Mexican cuisine at this popular Chamber program.
• Million Dollar Quartet at Tuacahn (January 30-31) - The legendary rock 'n' roll musical brings Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins together! Tickets at tuacahn.org.
• State of the City Address (February 11) - Join Mayor Michele Randall at the Dixie Convention Center for "Our Commitment to You."

Stay Connected

Thank you for being part of the St. George Word of Mouth community! Your support of local businesses makes Southern Utah an incredible place to live, work, and play.

Have news to share? Submit your community news, upcoming events, or business announcements to darrin@sgwom.com.

Explore more at sgwom.com for the complete business directory, events calendar, and community news.

St. George Word of Mouth - Connecting Southern Utah, One Story at a Time

Related Articles

Community•Feb 22, 2026

Joint Law Enforcement Operation Seizes 100 Pounds of Meth on I-15

0 views

2 min read

Community•Feb 22, 2026

St. George Word of Mouth Weekly: Saying Goodbye to Nina, State of the City Highlights, Major Drug Bust & This Week's Events

0 views

7 min read

Outdoors•Feb 18, 2026

Lakes in Southern Utah — Best Swimming, Fishing & Boating Spots (2026)

0 views

3 min read