It took nearly 2,000 miles on the road, but a truckload of Utah’s favorite foods made the trip from Farr West, Utah, to the U.S. Capitol last week to help celebrate the Beehive State’s Pioneer spirit.
The journey was part of Flavors of Utah, an annual event that showcases Utah-made products to members of Congress, their staff and national leaders. This year’s event was held July 15 in the Hart Senate Office Building, drawing nearly 1,000 attendees.
AFS driver Derrick LaPee departed from Associated Food Stores’ Farr West distribution center on Friday, July 11, hauling a truck filled with specialty products ranging from artisan cheese to local taffy. He arrived in Washington on Monday, July 14, just in time for a thorough security check (complete with search dogs) before the event setup began.
“I had a great time. All the instructions given to me by Senator Lee’s office were right up to speed. As confusing as Washington, D.C. can be to navigate, everything went smoothly. Overall, it was an amazing event with a lot of good people.”
Flavors of Utah is hosted by Associated Food Stores, the Utah Food Industry Association, and Zions Bank. The event provides Utah vendors with a chance to share their products while connecting with policymakers and experiencing the nation’s capital. Participating vendors also took part in tours of the Capitol, the White House and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
This year, 18 Utah companies participated, including Heber Valley Cheese, Taffy Town, JulieAnn Caramels, and Lowers Meats, among others.
Sarah Pettit, public affairs director for Associated Food Stores, said the event continues to grow each year.
“Each year, I’m grateful for the chance to work alongside our Flavors of Utah committee members and AFS colleagues like Derrick, Ryan Barnes, and many others who make this event possible,” Sarah said. “This year’s event had a record-breaking attendance with nearly 1,000 RSVPs. It’s exciting to watch Flavors of Utah grow, and we’re already looking forward to doing even more in 2026.”
To get an inside look for Flavors of Utah event last year, watch the video below.