Independence to celebrate 150 years with expanded Independence Days festivities

The city of Independence will mark its sesquicentennial this weekend with a three-day Independence Days celebration featuring live music, food, contests, family activities, a parade and fireworks.

The 150th anniversary celebration is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, and has included several events leading up to the weekend festivities.

Organizers held several community activities ahead of the celebration, including a medallion hunt, scavenger hunt, business window decorating contest and a campaign encouraging residents and businesses to light up properties in honor of the sesquicentennial.

The celebration officially began with a kickoff event on May 13, featuring a heritage meal, program and social gathering. A Miss Independence coronation and variety show was held on Wednesday.

Activities on Friday will begin with the opening of the beer tent, food stand and FFA milkshake and cheese curd stand at 4 p.m. Entertainment that evening will include the Independence Fireman’s Dance with music by Sage and Hollywood Boulevard. 

Saturday’s events will include a Friends of the Public Library plant sale, an Independence Area Historical Society bake sale, food stands, bingo, canoe races, a dunk tank and children’s activities, including games, face painting and tractor train rides.

Other Saturday events include a cornhole tournament, carriage rides, a beer stein holding contest, and evening entertainment under the tent. Sarah Jackson and the Endorphins will perform from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by Pop Rocks at 9 p.m.

Sunday’s activities will begin with a 5K walk/run and continue with a heritage cake bake-off, fashion show, bounce houses, a kiddie tractor pull, wine and beer tasting event and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional Sunday highlights include a city hall tour, a performance by the Magic of Isaiah, Mexican dancers, a queen’s tea at Independence State Bank, and a dedication ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park.

The twilight parade is scheduled for 9 p.m. Sunday, with fireworks to follow.