Janet Naisbitt-Bagley

Parowan Neighborhood Guide

Greetings from Parowan! Parowan is the county seat of Iron County, Utah. The population was approximately 2,500 at the 2000 census. With a rich culture, endless recreation opportunities, and exciting events held throughout the year, you’ll find plenty of things to do here in Parowan.

History

Like many American cities, it is believed that Parowan was originally settled centuries ago by Native American Tribes. Father Escalante began exploring this area in 1776 while Congress was struggling with American Independence in Philadelphia. It wasn’t until 1847 that Brigham Young came to Salt Lake valley (Mexican territory at the time) and settled the area with his congregation (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) to avoid religious persecution. On January 13, 1851 the city was officially settled by Apostle George A. Smith on January 13, 1851. The area was found to be rich in water, timber and iron, and the “City of the Little Salt Lake” was renamed Parowan, a Native American name meaning “evil water”. Parowan eventually became the county seat of Iron County, and the first church that was built here still stands in the center of the town square. 

Parks and Recreation

Parowan is home to many great parks and recreational opportunities. The community is dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

Iron County Fairgrounds www.parowan.org/fairgroundsparks.html
The Iron County Fairgrounds offers a variety of entertainment including an outdoor rodeo arena, a race track, horse stables, and a covered pavilion with a concession stand. There is also a large exhibition building complete with kitchen facilities and plenty of grassy areas for various events held throughout the year.

Area Events

Parowan is home to many exciting events that are perfect for everyone in the family. Bring your kids or your friends the Concert in the Park event or one of the great parades. Whatever you choose, be sure to bring your camera to capture the great memories you’ll be making!

Concerts in the Park (July)
Every Friday night in July concerts are given at the town Gazebo at Center and Main Street. For more information call 435-477-9022.

Independence Day Parade (July 4th)
The parade takes place on Parowan Main Street; if you would like to submit a parade entry please call 435-477-9022.

Iron County Far (August-September)
The Iron County Fair features a carnival, rodeo, and much more. Fun for the whole family! For more information call 435-477-8380

Fall Fest in the Park (October)
Fall Fest takes place in Parowan City Park and includes 10 to 6 entertainment, vendors, food and music. For more information call 435-477-9022.

Christmas in the Country Parade (November)
This event includes music, vendors, and a candle light parade for the whole family to enjoy. For more information call 435-477-9022.

For a complete calendar of events, please visit www.parowan.org/calendar.html

Area Attractions

Parowan offers residents and visitors a plethora of attractions that will satisfy everyone in the family. Come visit the many beautiful sites or museums for a fun and exciting day in Parowan.

Cedar Breaks National Monument http://cedarbreaks.areaparks.com
The variegated Pink Cliffs of the Claron Rock Formation near Cedar City have eroded to form a natural amphitheatre that is truly spectacular. The deep canyon rock walls and columns span nearly three miles and are over 2,000 feet deep. 

Parowan Gap www.parowan.org/parowangap.html
In prehistoric times the people living in the Parowan Valley used the Parowan Gap as a passage through to the Red Hills. Every year people traveled through the Gap to gain access the desert resources found in the area. 

Grand Canyon National Park http://grandcanyon.areaparks.com
The Grand Canyon was carved out of the rocks of the Colorado Plateau over millions of years and offers breathtaking views that are known all over the world. There are also hiking trails, roads to explore and currents to float in the Colorado River. The canyon’s humbling size is a timeless gift from the past.

Rock Church Museum
The historic “Crown Jewel” of Parowan, the rock church was the first church built here when the area was originally settled and still stands in the center of town square. Construction of the church began in 1863 and tool four years to complete. Throughout the years the church has been used as a place of worship, a town council meeting hall, a school building and a tourist camp. 

For more information about museums in the area, please visit www.parowan.org/museums.html .