Love Locks tradition spreads to Utah County

r Paris is known as the city of love, but placing “Love Locks”, a popular tradition for those visiting the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris, has spread across the US and made it’s way to Salem Pond.

The tradition is said to stem from a custom in ancient China. A couple places a padlock on a chain, fence or gate, then throws the key into the river, symbolically locking their love forever.

In 2013, an installation made especially for placing Love Locks, called a Lovescape, was placed at Salem Pond. Since then, several locks have been placed, but the practice still seems mostly a lovers’ secret.

A search for Lovescapes in Utah turned up only two others in Utah, one in St. George and one in Zion’s National Park.

Since 2008, the practice of placing love locks has spread quickly across the world. In some locations, the placing love locks is seen as a public nuisance and because of the extra weight, love locks are no longer allowed on many bridges.

The Lovescape at Salem Pond was made specifically for the locks and the city parks department does not cut them off.

If you’re looking for something special this Valentine’s Day, consider placing a love lock with your true love at Salem Pond.