I am originally from Utah. I have heard that Utahans eat more than their share of Jello and Jello salads. I don't believe I ate much Jello growing up, and I don't eat it often now.
I do remember my mom making a Jello salad like this a few times of picnics, but it wasn't a regular occurrence. Before making this salad, I don't believe I had eaten a Jello salad or Jello in over a decade.