GET INDEPENDENCE

09/04/2026

Check out the comments to see what vendors will be at tomorrow's Independence Farmers & Makers Market!

Saturday, September 5
7:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Parking Lot of Chestnut & 8th

Who’s joining the market this Saturday? Vendors, tell everyone what you’ll be bringing!

Shoppers, keep an eye on the comments to start making your shopping list. From fresh produce and baked goods to handmade creations, homemade favorites and more, you never know what you’ll discover!

🛍️ Shop local. Support local. See you Saturday!

📍 Chestnut & 8th Street Parking Lot
⏰ Saturday, September 5 from 7:30–11 a.m.

09/04/2026

💙 SEPTEMBER CAUGHT BEING KIND: GLORIA PRICE 💙

Gloria Price has helped create a place where everyone has the opportunity to participate, be included, be cheered on and experience the joy of being part of a team.

What began when Gloria saw a need in our community and chose to act has grown into something incredible. Buddy Ball has provided countless smiles, friendships and unforgettable moments and this year expanded with the first season of Buddy Hoops, while Buddy Softball prepares to begin its 17th season!

Gloria’s kindness and compassion have made a lasting difference in the lives of so many athletes and families in our community.

Gloria Price, you’ve been CAUGHT BEING KIND!

09/04/2026

This weekend in Independence!

LABOR DAY WEEKEND IN INDEPENDENCE!

📅 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
• Pioneer Patriots Exhibit
Independence Historical Museum and Art Center | 123 N. 8th St. - 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Step inside the Independence Historical Museum & Art Center and explore the special Kansas Pioneer Patriots exhibit. While you're there, take some time to discover even more of Independence's fascinating history!
• Live Music Night
Uncle Jack's Bar & Grill | 104 N. Penn Ave. - 6-9 p.m.
Kick off the holiday weekend with dinner and live music in Downtown Independence!
• Karaoke Night
Turbos Sports Bar and Grill | 103 W. Main St. - 9 p.m.
Grab your friends, pick your favorite song and sing your way into Labor Day weekend!

📅 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
• Independence Farmers & Makers Market
Chestnut & 8th Street Parking Lot - 7:30-11 a.m.
Spend your Saturday morning shopping local! Browse fresh produce, baked goods, locally raised meats, handmade items, plants, treats and more from area farmers and makers.
• Petting Zoo at Ralph Mitchell Zoo
Ralph Mitchell Zoo at Riverside Park - 1-2 p.m.
Bring the kids for a fun afternoon at the zoo! Visit the Petting Zoo, then stick around to explore Ralph Mitchell Zoo and beautiful Riverside Park.

Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time for a family day at Riverside Park! Visit the FREE Ralph Mitchell Zoo, take a ride on the carousel for just 5¢, hop aboard the miniature train for 50¢ or challenge the family to a round of miniature golf for only $2. Pack a picnic and enjoy one of Independence's favorite destinations!

Elk City State Park - Kansas Wildlife & Parks
Looking for a little outdoor adventure this Labor Day weekend? Head to Elk City State Park! Spend the weekend camping, hiking, boating and enjoying the great outdoors. Explore the trails, get out on the lake or simply relax at the campsite and soak up the final days of summer.

SHOP & DINE DOWNTOWN
Make time to explore Downtown Independence while you're out and about! Browse locally owned shops, hunt for something unique, grab a cup of coffee or enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of our great local restaurants. Shopping and dining local is a great way to experience the personality of Independence while supporting the businesses that make our community special.

09/04/2026

September First Friday - Sponsored by Independence Community College LIVE now!

09/02/2026

Mark your calendars for the Health on Purpose Community Wellness Fair, hosted by the SEK Senior Safety & Wellness Coalition!

The community is invited to stop by the Independence Civic Center on Friday, Sept. 25, from 7 to 11:30 a.m. for a morning focused on health, wellness and helpful resources.

Attendees can take advantage of health screenings, blood pressure checks, flu shots, balance screenings, Medicare information, movement and mobility demonstrations, a $25 lab screening and more. There will also be breakfast burritos and a yogurt bar, line dancing, a Fab Lab mobile demonstration, prizes and other activities.

📅 Friday, Sept. 25
⏰ 7–11:30 a.m.
📍 Independence Civic Center, 410 N. Penn Ave.

Take advantage of this great opportunity to learn more about local resources and make your health a priority!

09/02/2026

Due to the extreme temperatures forecast for this weekend, Riverside Park will be adjusting some operating hours to help keep staff and visitors safe.

For Saturday, Sept. 5; Sunday, Sept. 6; and Monday, Sept. 7 (Labor Day):

• Train, Carousel & Miniature Golf: 9–11 a.m.
• Miss Able’s Snack Shack: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Ralph Mitchell Zoo: Normal hours, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly, stay cool and enjoy Riverside Park safely this Labor Day weekend!

09/02/2026

Scooter is ready to make his debut!

Scooter's Coffee is hosting a special “Scooter’s with Scooter” event at Ralph Mitchell Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the zoo’s new bobcat, Scooter!

Visitors will have the chance to see Scooter on exhibit while enjoying mini donuts, mini blueberry muffins and water, courtesy of Scooter’s Coffee.

Come welcome Scooter to Independence and celebrate this fun new addition to Ralph Mitchell Zoo!

Scoot on over to see the new bobcat, Scooter, on exhibit for the first time on Saturday, September 19, at 10:00! Refreshments from Scooter's Coffee will be provided!