Utah Olympic Park was excited as Park City celebrated the thrilling news that Utah will host the 2034 Winter Olympic Games. This monumental announcement marks the Winter Games’ historic return to the United States, with Utah last hosting them in 2002. The event, aptly named “Celebrate 2034!” showcased the town’s enthusiasm and readiness to welcome athletes and spectators worldwide.

A Joyous Celebration and Future Plans

Local dignitaries and community leaders graced the celebration at Utah Olympic Park. Park City Mayor Pro Tempore Tana Toly, alongside City Council and Summit County Council members, expressed immense pride in bringing the Olympics back to Utah. Mayor Nann Worel, Summit County Council Chairperson Malena Stevens, and Jennifer Wesselhoff, President & CEO of the Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau, were in Paris for the official announcement.

“Welcoming the world’s best athletes on a global stage not once but twice since the turn of this century is truly historic!” said Toly. Stevens echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of Park City Municipal, Summit County, and the Chamber & Visitors Bureau in preparing for the Games. “We will work together on immediate next steps, ensuring our communities are best positioned to host this global event.”

2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Confirmed for Salt Lake City – Utah.

A Rich Legacy and Exciting Future

Since hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics, Utah Olympic Park has remained a cornerstone of recreation and world-class training. It houses the Alf Engen Ski Museum and the Eccles Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum, symbolizing the state’s enduring Olympic legacy. “This setting underscores both celebration and the reward that comes from training,” said Jennifer Wesselhoff. “In one sense, the announcement is a great victory for our State, but it also is just the beginning, as we start to plan for the next ten years.”

Colin Hilton, President and CEO of the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, highlighted the Park’s pivotal role in fostering recreation and tourism. “We look forward to working with our great community partners as we build toward the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games,” Hilton stated.

Community Engagement and Planning

A key component of the preparations involves engaging the community. “Garnering input from residents, stakeholders, and businesses will help inform our vision and action plan for the 2034 Games,” Mayor Worel noted. Online surveys and focus groups will ensure a wide range of community segments are involved in planning.

Park City Mountain, Deer Valley Resort, and Soldier Hollow are among the local host venues gearing up for the Games. Deirdra Walsh, VP & COO of Park City Mountain, expressed pride in their venue selection. “Our legacy from the 2002 Winter Games affirms Park City Mountain’s status as a world-class destination that embodies the spirit and inspiration of the Olympic Games.”

Inspiring Future Generations

The excitement is palpable among the local community, especially the youth. “Our local residents will enjoy a front-row seat to the greatest winter show on Earth,” said Becca Gerber, Director of Community Relations at Park City Chamber of Commerce. “This is our opportunity to highlight what truly makes our community authentic and unique and show the world exactly why Park City is ‘Winter’s Favourite Town.’”

As Utah gears up for the 2034 Winter Olympics, the sense of pride and anticipation is undeniable. The collaborative efforts of local leaders and community engagement promise a spectacular and memorable event that will inspire future generations and cement Park City’s legacy as a premier winter sports destination.

For more information about Deer Valley, visit the resort’s website at deervalley.com.

Written by: Jill Walsh

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