Golden Spike Reenactment
Every May 10 at Promontory Summit
On May 10, 1869, the Central Pacific and Union Pacific met at Promontory Summit and a ceremonial golden spike completed the first transcontinental railroad. Every year on that date, Golden Spike National Historical Park marks the anniversary where it happened, with replica steam locomotives nose to nose on the original grade, costumed reenactors and a commemorative ceremony.
The anniversary falls on Monday, May 10, 2027. The 2027 schedule hasn’t been posted yet. Check the park’s events page for details.
Quick Facts
Date
May 10 every year
Location
Golden Spike National Historical Park, Promontory
Drive
32 miles west of Brigham City
Time needed
Half a day or more
Highlights
Ceremony, reenactment, steam locomotives, cab tours
Can’t make May 10?
Reenactments on summer Saturdays
Watch History Happen Again
The anniversary is the park’s biggest day. Rangers, reenactors and community groups fill the Last Spike Site to retell the story of the railroad: who built it, what it changed and what it cost. The replica Jupiter and No. 119 steam up for demonstration runs, and you can climb into the cab for a closer look.
Recent celebrations have included the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, the Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association, the Hibernian Society of Utah and the Golden Spike Association of Box Elder County.
What to Expect on May 10
Commemorative Ceremony
Midday
Historical Reenactment
Afternoon
The Champagne Photo
Morning
Steam Locomotive Demonstrations
Throughout the day
Engine Cab Tours
Late afternoon
Cultural Demonstrations
Throughout the day
A Day at the Celebration
Morning
Ranger Talks & Engine Demo
Midday
Commemorative Ceremony
Afternoon
Reenactment & Cab Tours
Make a Day of It
Continue on to the Spiral Jetty
16 miles on gravel · No restrooms, water or cell service
16 miles on gravel · No restrooms, water or cell serviceWhile you’re out at Promontory, consider continuing to Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. Check road conditions before you go and bring everything you need.
Brigham City
Fuel up on Main Street before or after your visit. Brigham City has the closest full services, plus historic downtown, local cafes and the Fruit Way just south of town.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Pair history with wildlife at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, one of the West’s best birding spots. Take the Forest Street exit off I-15 in Brigham City and head west to a 12-mile auto tour loop through marshes full of pelicans, avocets and, in season, thousands of migrating birds.