‘Spirit of Freedom’ on stage with dream of starting new tradition
MANTI—As Utah commemorates America’s 250th anniversary, a powerful new tradition is taking root. The Spirit of Freedom Pageant debuts July 22–25, 2026, at the Sanpete County Fairgrounds, offering four nights of inspiring outdoor theater, original music, and a timely message of faith, courage, and religious liberty.
The pageant tells the story of the struggle for religious liberty and the principles that helped shape the founding of the United States. The pageant combines live theater, music and large-scale staging to depict the sacrifices made by men and women who sought the freedom to worship according to their conscience.
The production centers on the true story of Rev. John Lothropp, a 17th-century English minister who was imprisoned after refusing to conform to the Church of England. Adapted from Helene Holt’s award-winning book Exiled, the pageant follows Lothropp’s journey from persecution in England to the American colonies, highlighting the role his story played in the broader pursuit of religious freedom. The pageant features a volunteer cast and crew and is intended to celebrate the enduring values of faith, liberty and freedom of conscience.
Gates open each evening at 6 p.m., giving patrons time to enjoy the 1776 Museum exhibit, browse vendors and food trucks, and participate in family-friendly pre-show activities. Each night carries a special theme honoring different aspects of Sanpete County’s heritage and the broader American story.
Thursday, July 23 – “Neighbors Night”
A special welcome to visitors from surrounding counties, states, and countries. The pre-show features an encore performance by Lyndsey and the Wulf at 6:45 p.m., followed by the National Anthem sung by John Keeler of Manti. The pageant begins at 8 p.m.
Friday, July 24 – “Celebrating Our Pageantry Heritage” Night
This emotional evening honors former cast members, crew, directors, and leaders of the beloved Mormon Miracle Pageant, with special recognition for Jane Anderson Braithwaite.
At 6 p.m., the Manti Library Ukulele Club will perform, featuring local musicians Cynthia Tibbs-Lopez, Mark Cox, Sam Blatter, Tom Brooks, Helene (Holt) Brooks, Brian Davis, Camille Larsen, Evelyn Christensen, Judy Cook, Loretta Hopman, Tiffany Covington, and Lynette Allred
At 7 p.m., Oba Bonner of the renowned Bonner Family brings his energetic Christian pop style. Becky Barton Hullinger of Orem will sing the National Anthem. The main show begins at 8 p.m.
Saturday, July 25 – “Honoring Veterans Night”
A heartfelt tribute to U.S. military service members from all branches. Veterans and one guest receive free admission with the code “Vets.”
Master of Ceremonies Robert Jones (a cast member and descendant of John and Hannah Lothropp from American Fork) will deliver opening remarks at 8 p.m. The National Anthem will be performed by Sister Trista Burton of Arkansas, serving in the Utah Spanish Fork Mission. The pageant begins at 9 p.m.
Told through powerful original music, live singing, and compelling acting, the Spirit of Freedom Pageant brings this history to vivid life against the scenic backdrop of the night sky at Sanpete County Fairgrounds. Audiences will experience soaring songs such as “The Price,” “From This Table,” and the title track “The Spirit of Freedom,” along with tender, emotional scenes and heart-breaking jail scenes that have moved even the cast during rehearsals.
The production is designed to be family-friendly and uplifting, reminding attendees of the freedoms we can too easily take for granted.
With America 250 celebrations reminding us to reflect on our nation’s founding principles, the Spirit of Freedom Pageant arrives at the perfect moment. Whether you come for the music, the drama, the history, or the chance to gather with family and neighbors under the summer sky, this is an evening that promises to inspire and uplift.
Tickets are available now at SpiritOfFreedomPageant.com. Sanpete locals can use the code “Sanpete” for special rates. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic new chapter in Manti and Sanpete County.