September 27, 2025, was a day to remember! Our community came together for our very first Fall Fest, and it turned out to be everything we had hoped for (and so much more). From little ones searching for the perfect pumpkin to neighbors chatting over bowls of chili, it was a true celebration of what makes our neighborhood special. Did you miss out on the festivities this time? Here’s a recap of the event and an overview of what to expect next time:
The Patch from Kiowa was the highlight of the day, offering a beautiful selection of pumpkins for families to enjoy. The Elbert County 4-H group joined us and brought along some special guests: a friendly chicken and an adorable baby alpaca! People of all ages enjoyed meeting the animals and learning more about local agriculture. One 4-H member shared how meaningful it was to bring her own animals and help others understand the importance of farming in our community.
No fall celebration is complete without some friendly competition, and our chili cookoff brought the heat! Twelve residents shared their best recipes, filling the air with the scent of spice. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the Elizabeth Fire Department for helping us taste-test all the recipes and crown our 2025 Chili Champion.
Throughout the day, local vendors and artisans enhanced the event with their booths of handmade items and fresh local products. It was a great way to support small businesses and connect with neighbors.
Above all, Fall Fest reminded us why Independence is such a special place to call home. From new friendships to family memories, every moment of the day embodied our community.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who participated and helped make this event possible. We’re excited to do it again next year and have even more gatherings planned for this winter, spring, and beyond. Until then, thank you for making our first Fall Fest at Independence a memorable one!
