Salt Lake City to celebrate the 9th & 9th whale's new look

• Saturday's event, at the roundabout, will feature a costume contest, whale call contest and a parade, along with local vendors, live music and food trucks.

Zoom in: The "Open Your Eyes" mural by local artist Jiyoun Lee-Lodge is inspired by the Great Salt Lake and Utah's open skies.

• Her design was selected by city arts officials and community members.

The big picture: The whale has developed a cult following since its creation in 2022 by artist Stephen Kesler, inspiring a satirical religion, marathons around the sculpture and even a miniature replica.

What's next: The whale's mural will change every three to five years.