Catch a glimpse of the recreational opportunities just outside your door at Saturday's Venture Outdoors Festival.

Community leaders launched the festival three years ago to help establish an identity for Millcreek Township and let residents know about recreational opportunities in their own backyard.

"It started off as the first Millcreek-wide event, and it's growing every year," Salt Lake County Councilman Mark Crockett said.

And just like the festival, Millcreek Township is growing. Residents there are in the process of determining whether they should incorporate and start their own city, stay under county watch as a township or be annexed into another city.

Either way, community leaders in Millcreek want people to see the area as a vibrant, active community where people can enjoy outdoor recreation.

The public can go to dozens of recreational clinics throughout the day, from archery to Dutch oven cooking, stargazing, GPS navigation and fly casting tips and tricks.

Live music starts at 3 p.m., with choirs and bands performing throughout the night. Guests include Ivy League, Allred, the Stone Fruit Trio, Brian & Chip, the One Voice Children's Choir and performances from students attending the School of Rock.

Registration for the morning 5K races starts at 7:30 a.m., and a free kids jungle run begins at 6 p.m. Beach volleyball games kick off at 11 a.m.

Other morning events include guided canyon hikes, kayaking, rock climbing, bike rodeo and a health and wellness fair.

The free festival is at Canyon Rim Park, on 2900 E. 3100 South.

For a full schedule of events, visit millcreekoutdoors.org.

"It's a great event, it's a lot of fun for kids and for people who like the outdoors," Crockett said.

Venture Outdoors Festival

Canyon Rim Park
2900 E. 3100 South
Saturday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
For more informantion visit millcreekoutdoors.org

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E-mail: ldethman@desnews.com