Annual Events in Independence, Kentucky
Discover the vibrant community events that bring Independence together throughout the year.
Antique truck in the Memorial Day Parade
Overview: The Independence Easter Egg Hunt is a family-friendly event designed to engage children and families in a fun, community-oriented activity during the spring season. It typically involves children hunting for colorful plastic eggs filled with candy, toys, or small prizes, hidden at Memorial Park.
Date: Held annually around Easter, with a specific date about 2 weeks before Easter.
Location: The event is held at Memorial Park, 2001 Jackwoods Pkwy, Independence, KY 41051
Activities:
- The Easter Egg hunts are divided by age groups to ensure fairness and safety.
- Possible appearances by the Easter Bunny for photos.
- Additional activities like face painting, games, or crafts may be included, depending on the year.
Community Significance: Organized by Hickory grove Baptist Church and the City of Independence, this free event fosters community spirit and provides a safe, festive environment for families.
Contact: For updates, call 859-356-3162.
Overview: The Memorial Day Parade is a solemn yet patriotic event held in collaboration with The American Legion Moon Brothers Post 275 to honor fallen service members.
Date: Held annually on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) at 10:30 a.m.
Location: The parade route starts at Memorial Park and ends at the Kenton County Courthouse, 5272 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051.
Activities:
- A parade featuring veterans' groups, local organizations, the Simon Kenton marching band, and floats. Political campaigns are discouraged from participating.
- A post-parade ceremony at the Kenton County Courthouse, which may include prayers, gun salutes, and bugle performances.
Community Significance: This event underscores Independence's respect for military service and sacrifice. It's a free event open to all.
Contact: American Legion Moon Brothers Post 275
Overview: The 4th of July Celebration in Independence is a major patriotic festival known for its family-friendly atmosphere, parade, and spectacular fireworks display.
Date: The event is held on the closest weekend to July 4th, with the 2026 event scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 3rd and 4th, 2026.
This year's celebration will highlight America 250!
Location:
- Parade: On Saturday, starts at Summit View Academy, 5006 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051, and ends at Simon Kenton High School, 11132 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051, at 3:00 p.m.
- Festival and Fireworks: Held at Memorial Park, 2003 Jackwoods Pkwy, Independence, KY 41051, from 4:00 p.m. to midnight.
Activities:
- Parade: Features floats, bands, and community groups.
- Festival: Includes rides, games, food vendors, live music, and a beer garden.
- Fireworks: Presented by Vito's Fireworks at 10:00 p.m.
Community Significance: This event is a cornerstone of Independence's community calendar, drawing large crowds for its patriotic spirit.
Event Website: Visit https://4thfest.us
Overview: The Christmas Walk is a festive, family-friendly event that transforms Independence into a winter holiday scene.
Date: The first Saturday in December.
Location: Downtown Independence to Memorial Park, 2001 Jackwoods Pkwy, Independence, KY 41051.
Activities:
- Christmas Tree lighting at the Kenton County Courthouse
- Christmas Parade with all participants decked out in Christmas lights and designs.
- Christmas lights and decorations throughout the event area.
- Possible activities include visits with Santa, caroling, or holiday markets.
- Refreshments like hot cocoa and cookies.
- Singing Christmas Carols, learn the lyrics here
Community Significance: The Christmas Walk is an annual tradition that brings residents together to celebrate the holiday season.
Overview: The Kenton County Fair, held annually in Independence, Kentucky, is a six-day event held in July, at the Kenton County Fairgrounds, attracting over 20,000 visitors. Organized by the Kenton County Fair Board, it showcases the region's agricultural heritage through 4-H and FFA events, livestock competitions, horse shows, and open exhibits. Families enjoy a lively midway with rides, delicious local food, and entertainment like truck and tractor pulls, demolition derbies, pageants, and a kids' pedal pull, creating a fun, educational, and welcoming environment for all ages. Admission is $15, with funds supporting fair operations and educational programs.
Date: Held annually during the 2nd week of July
Location: Kenton County Fairgrounds, 2836 Harris Pike, Independence, KY 41051.
Activities:
- Agricultural and Livestock Shows
- Beauty Pageants.
- Rides and Carnival games
- Demolition Derby
Website: Visit the event website
Overview: The Kenton County Farm Tour is a self-guided tour offering behind-the-scenes access to farms in Southern Kenton County.
Date: Held annually in September. 2025 dates TBA
Location: Various farms across Southern Kenton County, with a map provided by organizers.
Activities:
- Visitors explore farm operations, meet farmers, and learn about crops or livestock.
- Possible activities include hayrides or produce tastings.
- Independence farmers' Market is usually stop #1
- Some farms offer goods for sale.
Community Significance: This free event promotes agricultural education and supports local farmers.
Contact: Visit the event website
Overview: The Flag Day Ceremony is a solemn U.S. Flag Retirement Ceremony conducted by the American Legion Moon Brothers Post 275.
Date: Held annually on Flag Day, June 14, at 7:00 p.m.
Location: Sterling Staggs Park, 5105 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051.
Activities:
- A formal ceremony including flag retirement protocols.
- Speeches or readings about the flag's significance.
- Community members may bring worn flags for disposal.
Community Significance: This event reflects Independence's patriotic values and respect for national symbols.
Contact: Contact the American Legion Moon Brothers Post 275.
General Notes
Accessibility: Most events are free and open to the public, aligning with Independence's commitment to inclusive activities.
Updates: Event details may change annually. Check social media accounts for last minute updates. Websites are updated as changes occur.
Community Context: Independence is known for its tight-knit community and patriotic traditions, with many events tied to veterans' organizations.