Elbert County, Colorado includes the towns of Agate, Elizabeth, Elbert, Kiowa, Matheson, and Simla. Our county is quickly growing–by about two percent each year! The Elbert County Partnership was created to ensure our county remains a beautiful place to live. This organization partners with local nonprofits and neighbors to promote the well-being of all residents in Elbert County. Interested in learning more about this partnership? Here’s what you need to know:
Investing in a Bright Future
The motto of the Elbert County Partnership is simple: the future is bright. This organization aims to promote the common good of all Elbert County residents while honoring the county’s deep agricultural roots. Elbert County Partnership aims to offer excellent housing choices, quality education, ample job opportunities, and land protection as the county grows.
How to Get Involved
There are several ways to get involved in the Elbert County Partnership and actively benefit the community. To stay updated with the latest news, follow their Facebook page. This is an easy way to stay apprised of what’s happening in the community so you can add the essential events to your calendar. For a more hands-on approach, you can volunteer or donate.
The Elbert County Partnership contributes to several events yearly, and volunteers are always needed. You can make a difference if you’d like to help at a parade, make phone calls, distribute flyers, or attend meetings. To sign up for an event, please register here.
We love being part of Elbert County, where everyone lends a hand to make our community stronger. If you’re looking for a place to put down roots, call us. We welcome you to the neighborhood and can’t wait for you to experience all that Elizabeth, Colorado offers.
There’s nothing like celebrating your first holiday season in your brand-new home. If you’re new to Independence (or want to be) and looking for ways to decorate your home for the holidays, we have some recommendations! Here are a few of our favorite décor ideas for this special time of year:
Classic Wreaths
You can’t go wrong with a classic wreath when dressing up your home for the holidays. In addition to adorning the door with some festive greenery, try bringing this trend indoors for a natural yet cheerful look. Interior designers and lifestyle bloggers recommend hanging a wreath above interior windows or cabinets for a woodland winter wonderland feel.
Dress Up the Staircase
In two-story homes, the staircase is an excellent place for adding ornamentation. You can keep it simple with a cheery red ribbon or go whimsical with a wintry garland, ball ornaments, stockings, or twinkling lights. Need some inspiration? We love these ideas!
Rustic Flair
Independence has deep roots in Elizabeth’s agricultural history, so rustic touches will be at home here. If you’re looking for charming front porch décor options, check out some of these creations. A vintage wagon makes a beautiful candle holder for flameless candles, and boots filled with winter greenery are a fun, rustic play on a wreath.
Deck the Ceiling
Forget decking the halls–hanging ornaments from the ceiling is even more fun! This idea is on-trend for any style or layout and easy to accomplish. You can hang the ornaments with clear fishing wire for a floating look. There are lots of tutorials for this project on TikTok!
The holiday season is a wonderful time in beautiful Elizabeth, Colorado. If you’re still searching for your dream home, now is the perfect time to explore available homes at Independence! We offer exceptionally crafted new homes by top builders. Ready to learn more about move-in-ready homes? Please contact our team. We look forward to welcoming you to our community this holiday season!
If this is your first year hosting Thanksgiving in your new home, we’re so excited for you! Hosting your friends and family is one of the best parts of homeownership. That being said, the holidays can be overwhelming–so we’re here to offer some tips for easing the stress. Take a look at the ideas below to help you host a cozy and memorable gathering:
Confirm the Guest List Ahead of Time
Whether you prefer an intimate gathering or invite the whole neighborhood, one thing is for sure: you’ll want to confirm the guest list before you start cooking. Although it’s better to be over-prepared than underprepared, it’s frustrating when you’ve spent all day cooking large quantities only to realize that the guest list has dwindled. Many Thanksgiving dishes can be prepared a day in advance, so consider contacting invitees a few days before the event to ensure the most accurate head count.
Choose Make-Ahead Recipes
Hosting a Thanksgiving meal is enough work without saving all the cooking for one day. If you’d like to front-load some of the effort, make as many dishes as you can ahead of time. Many Thanksgiving classics are perfect for cooking a day ahead of schedule, and you can simply pop them in the oven to warm them up (if needed). Mashed potatoes, refrigerated desserts such as pumpkin pie or cheesecake, and even green bean casserole are great candidates for preparing in advance. You’ll thank yourself later!
Offer Outdoor Seating
You never quite know what the weather will be like in late November, but even if it’s snowy, some guests may appreciate an opportunity to venture outdoors. Setting up some simple seating in the backyard will provide more breathing room and can offer a chance for one-on-one conversations. To make the area cozier, consider providing outdoor heaters or throw blankets.
Accept Help
When it’s your first time hosting a holiday gathering, the pressure can take some of the magic away from the event. If you feel stressed by the mile-long to-do list, be receptive to help. If guests offer a side dish or dessert, take them up on it! Holidays like Thanksgiving are about community, so keep that in mind as you prepare.
The holiday season is a beautiful time of year. Whether this is your first time hosting Thanksgiving or an annual tradition, we hope the tips mentioned here can help. If you’re searching for a brand new home to make memories with your loved ones, we have exceptional options at Independence. Our conservation community is located in Elizabeth, Colorado, with homes by the top builders in the nation. Please contact our team to learn more about availability.
Believe it or not, the holiday season is well on its way! If you’re looking forward to enjoying winter festivities during this special time of year, there are some spectacular options near Elizabeth, Colorado. Interested in exploring what’s on the schedule? Take a look at a few of the upcoming events:
November 20-January 12: Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens
It’s well worth the hour’s drive from Independence to experience Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens. This iconic festival of lights consistently ranks as one of the top light shows in the nation, and guests can explore a mile-long path of immersive displays that highlight the garden’s plant collections. Blossoms of Light runs from November 20th, 2024, through January 12th, 2025 (and will be closed on November 28th and December 25th). Tickets aren’t available at the door, so purchase beforehand if you plan to attend!
November 30-December 15: Hometown Holidays
Looking for some weekend fun? Stop by the nearby town of Parker for the Hometown Holidays! The event kicks off on November 30th and will continue on Saturdays and Sundays until December 15th. The festivities will take place at O’Brien Park, which offers plenty of space for the Parker Express Train, reindeer, and booths galore.
December 7: Jingle and Mingle
We’re excited to announce our first annual Jingle and Mingle at the Independence Clubhouse! Stop by for some winter festivities on December 7th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. While you’re here, you and your family can enjoy photos with Santa, a petting zoo, crafts, hot cocoa, and explore the offerings from local vendors. There will also be a drawing for a cash prize and other gifts! You won’t want to miss out on the debut of this incredible community gathering. RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1st-annual-jingle-mingle-tickets-1074770650949
December 7: Mayor’s Tree Lighting
The Mayor’s Tree Lighting is always a highly anticipated event in Elizabeth. Located on Main Street, attendees can enjoy many family-friendly holiday activities under the newly unveiled twinkling lights. This event is jam-packed with fun, including appearances by Santa, Mrs. Clause, and the elves. As you stroll along Main Street, stop by one of the many food trucks for a bite or a warm cup of cider or cocoa. Additional details are available here!
December 14: An Elizabeth Christmas
An Elizabeth Christmas embodies the beautiful community spirit in our town. On December 14th, stop by Casey Jones Pavilion from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. to participate in classic holiday festivities, such as carriage rides, crafting, and visits with Santa. This one is a can’t-miss!
The holiday season in Colorado is truly a magical time of year. Whether you want to stay close to home or venture to Denver, plenty of fun awaits. If you’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays in a brand new home this year, we invite you to explore available homes at Independence. Please contact our team to learn more about move-in-ready homes. We look forward to welcoming you to the community during the most wonderful time of the year!
In the Centennial State, your garden can flourish all year round. Yes – even during fall and winter! We have some great tips if you’re looking forward to off-season gardening. With proper care, your harvest will pay off in spring! Here are some considerations to take when starting a garden in the fall or winter:
Choose What to Plant
It can be tricky to get the hang of gardening in our part of Colorado, where the sun shines most of the year, but temperatures can dip quite dramatically. If you’re just getting started, be sure to choose plants that are known for thriving in cooler weather. There are several excellent choices, including:
–Root vegetables, such as carrots, beets, and turnips. These crops are low maintenance and do exceptionally well in cold weather, so you won’t have to worry too much when the temperatures drop below freezing.
–Cabbage and greens. Cabbage and greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens are known to be cold-weather resistant and can add some colorful nutrition to your meals. Their abundant leaves also add texture and visual appeal to your garden.
–Onion family. Onions are a staple in many recipes, and when they’re cared for properly, they can survive even the harshest weather conditions. When selecting seedlings for your Colorado garden, look for onion, garlic, leeks, and chives varieties.
–Perennial herbs. With a little extra care, herbs such as horseradish, tarragon, and chives can reliably survive frosts. Plus, these herbs add depth to many recipes.
Invest in Row Covers
The soil will need some TLC to keep your garden growing throughout the year’s coldest months. Even the most demanding plants can’t survive for long if the soil freezes, so you’ll need to monitor the temperature of your garden beds. If you’re using raised beds, take the protection up a notch by installing row covers. These covers are a low-maintenance way to provide humidity-trapping insulation that raises the temperature around the plants.
Continue Watering
It’s a common misconception that snowfall will provide adequate water for crops. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Unlike rainwater, which can easily penetrate the soil, snow remains frozen on the top layer until it thaws. To ensure that your garden stays hydrated, keep watering as needed. Aim for warmer parts of the day when the temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plant Cover Crops
Cover crops are another way to support plants that need extra help through the colder months. These crops enrich the soil with vital nutrients and require little attention during the coldest parts of the year. Before selecting the best cover crops for your garden, evaluate your crops’ specific needs and consider what will grow well during the winter. For example, fava beans, rye, and wheat are excellent for infusing the soil with nitrogen and can easily be removed once spring arrives.
In Colorado, there’s no reason to close up shop on your garden if you want to continue during the fall and winter. With some planning and special care, plants can flourish during the colder months and provide a bountiful spring harvest. If you’ve been dreaming of a yard perfect for gardening, we’d love for you to explore our move-in-ready homes at Independence. We also have a community garden for your enjoyment! To learn more about our conservation community in Elizabeth, please contact our team.
Halloween will be here before we know it! If you’re searching for family-friendly Halloween crafts you can enjoy making with loved ones, we have some great recommendations. Check out the following ideas for a fun DIY experience:
Swirling Bats Snow Globe
Who says snow globes are just for winter? These swirling bat snow globes are perfect for spicing up the fall season! This craft is simple enough for even the youngest DIYers to help, and is made with just a few simple craft store supplies. You’ll need a mason jar, hot glue or e600, distilled water, glycerin, and Halloween-inspired ornaments and glitter for this cute project.
Rainbow Spider Pumpkin
Pumpkins are a fall staple, and this rainbow spider pumpkin looks beautiful either indoors or outdoors. This non-creepy project is excellent for little ones who want to play with paint and enjoy bright colors. All you’ll need for this DIY craft is a craft store pumpkin, spray paint, plastic spiders, and a hot glue gun. A tarp is also helpful for minimizing mess.
Halloween Handprints
These Halloween handprints are perfect as decorations now and keepsakes for the future. Using a tracing of your loved one’s hand, your family can create Halloween-themed characters such as Frankenstsein’s monster, vampires, ghosts, or pumpkins! Slap some googly eyes on these cut-outs, and they’ll look great on the fridge or wall.
Cardboard Haunted House
Looking for a way to reuse those Amazon boxes that have been piling up? This haunted house is a great way to reduce, reuse, and recycle! Using cardboard boxes, paper towel rolls, and construction paper, you and your family can craft a spooky castle. Keep the top open for stashing candy!
Twig Wreath
A web-covered twig wreath looks awesome on the front door, and the whole family can have fun on a scavenger hunt to gather the twigs. In addition to the sticks, all you’ll need are a cardboard wreath form, some glue, and faux spider webs. This craft is one you can save for future years, or do it all over again next fall!
Halloween provides the perfect opportunity to get crafty with your family and friends. If you’re looking forward to making memories in your brand new home, these projects are sure to bring on the smiles. Ready to enjoy all the perks of our new community in Elizabeth, Colorado? Ask our team about move-in ready homes. We look forward to welcoming you to Independence!
Fall is in the air! If you’re looking forward to celebrating the season with your community, there are plenty of opportunities here in Elbert County, Colorado. Whether you’re interested in family-friendly activities or something to enjoy outdoors solo, check out the upcoming events that are on the fall schedule for 2024:
Parker Fall Fest
When: September 21st-28th
Where: Downtown Parker
Parker, Colorado is just down the road from Elizabeth. If you’re looking for some fall fun, you don’t want to miss out on the 2024 Parker Fall Fest. This year’s festival is expected to be bigger and better than ever and will include a week of activities and experiences. There’s a little bit of everything here, from a hay bale maze to carnival games and a drone light show. To explore the full schedule, head over to this site.
Elizabeth Stampede Community Rodeo
When: September 27th-28th
Where: Casey Jones Park
It’s almost time for the historic Elizabeth Stampede Community Rodeo! This year, the big event is presented by Elizabeth Locker Plant. From September 27th-28th, the arena at Casey Jones Park will host a variety of exciting festivities. Whether you want to cheer on the barrel racers or watch the little cowboys and cowgirls enjoy mini buckers, Elizabeth Stampede offers wholesome community fun!
ElizaFest: A Toast to Elizabeth Festival
When: September 28th
Where: Casey Jones Park
In collaboration with the Community Rodeo, the Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce invites you to participate in ElizaFest: A Toast to Elizabeth Festival. This gathering will occur at Casey Jones Park on September 28th from 12-9 pm. It will feature live music, multiple levels of cornhole tournaments, lawn games, children’s activities, and food and libations from local vendors.
Boo Bash on Main & Trick Or Treat Street
When: October 26th
Where: Elizabeth Historic Main Street
Your family won’t want to miss Boo Bash on Main Street and Trick or Treat Street! Stop by Historic Main Street on October 26th to enjoy many fall festivities. There will be plenty of candy for trick-or-treaters, including a Trunk or Treat event! Feel free to wear costumes as you explore the fantastic local vendors along Main Street.
If you’re looking for a new place to call home, you won’t find one more charming than Elizabeth, Colorado. There’s always something fun in town, and the fall gatherings highlighted here will surely be a blast. We proudly offer brand-new homes in Elizabeth, and we’d love for you to join our community. Ready to explore move-in ready homes? Please contact our team to learn more about availability.
Now that it’s almost fall here in Colorado, it’s time to start planning your leaf-spotting routes. If you’re new to our state, you may not know that mid-September through mid-October is prime time for viewing stunning fall foliage. The aspen trees put on a magnificent show throughout Colorado, so whether you want to stay close to home or take a little road trip, there are plenty of options for you to explore. Here’s an overview of what to expect during the leaf-peeping season in the Centennial State:
Pick the Perfect Timeline
You must time your trip just right to see the aspens cloaked in rich golden leaves. Generally, most aspens reach peak color for about five weeks between mid-September and mid-October. Of course, it depends on the weather we’ve had leading up to autumn. A hot and dry summer followed by an early freeze typically means that trees will change color and drop their leaves sooner than usual. Your timeline will also depend on which part of the state you’re from (or traveling to). Northern Colorado’s leaves are often the first to turn, so areas like Steamboat Springs will be perfect for exploring around the third week of September. Central Colorado’s leaf-peeping season starts the next week, with the southern part of the state following a week after that.
Must-See Locations
If you’re looking forward to seeing the vivid leaf colors this fall, there are a few areas that you should add to your list. The following destinations are known for offering stunning views during the fall:
Kenosha Pass. Kenosha Pass is located along Highway 285, approximately two hours from Denver. Highway 285 is a north-south route, and Kenosha Pass is one of the most popular destinations in the state for leaf viewing. Because the sights are so spectacular during the fall, expect the parking lots to be crowded. If you’re not up for a long hike, you don’t have to travel far along the trail to enjoy great glimpses of the foliage.
Kebler and McClure Passes. If you’re interested in a road trip, you won’t want to miss out on Kebler and McClure Passes. These beautiful spots are located along the road that connects Aspen and Crested Butte. This is a fantastic destination for a scenic drive, with plenty of places to park and take in the scenery.
Guanella Pass. For a different experience, you can take the Georgetown Train Railroad to see all the colors along Guanella Pass. This heritage railroad is located in Clear Creek County off Interstate 70 and offers unprecedented views of the mountains.
As the chill of fall arrives, be on the lookout for the aspens to show off their bright colors. Although our state has ample aspen groves, some areas offer incredible views. Whether you want to stay close to Elizabeth, Colorado, or venture out for a day trip, there’s no shortage of options. As a resident of Independence, it’s easy to hop on the interstate and travel throughout our beautiful state. If you have any questions about our move-in ready homes, we’re always happy to help.
Looking for ways to make a dent in your carbon footprint? By being mindful of your energy usage at home, small changes can add up to a big difference for the planet (and your energy bill). If you’re interested in creating better habits, here are some tips to help you get started:
Optimize Your Thermostat Usage
One of the simplest ways to reduce your energy consumption is to be thoughtful about the temperature in your home. If you’re not changing your thermostat with the seasons, you’re missing out on energy savings! During the summertime, try to avoid cranking down the air conditioning. If you and your household are comfortable, a great goal is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s easier to save energy in the winter when you can layer with clothing or blankets to stay warm.
Turn Off/Unplug Lights and Electronics
When lights or electronics aren’t in use, they don’t need to be turned on or plugged in. Turning off lights and unplugging cords as you leave the house (or just a room) is an excellent practice for saving energy. Getting used to the new routine might take a few days, but it will quickly become second nature. Bonus points: encourage others in the household to do this too!
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Even if you’re watching the thermostat and turning off lights and electronics whenever possible, a home that isn’t efficient will waste an astounding amount of energy. If you’re shopping around for a new place to live, prioritize homes with energy-efficient features. Most new construction will include the latest technology, so you won’t have to worry about adding insulation to the attic or swapping out old light bulbs for more efficient versions.
Small changes can create a significant impact, and we all can make a difference for the planet. If you’d like to reduce your carbon footprint, the tips highlighted here can help you take the first steps. Interested in buying a new home equipped with best-in-class energy efficiency features? We’re proud to offer new construction by some of the best builders in the nation. Please contact our team to learn more about what makes our community exceptional. We’d love to help you become a resident of Independence!
In the blink of an eye, the end of summer is almost here. If you’re looking for a last hoorah before the kids head back to school and we welcome the fall season, several excellent events and activities are coming up in Elbert County. Ready to enjoy the festivities? Here’s a sample of what’s on the calendar as we leave summer in the rearview mirror:
Elbert County Fair
Nothing compares to the simple joy of a summertime fair. From July 27th to August 4th, the Elbert County Fair will be at the Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa, Colorado. The 90th iteration of this historic gathering will be one for the books, and the schedule is jam-packed with fun events for all ages. From mutton bustin’ to professional bull and bronc riding, there’s a lot of excitement to be had here. Plus, the Independence Community is a proud annual supporter of this action packed event, and admission and parking are FREE!
Elbert County Marketplace
If shopping calls your name, you’ll want to check out Elbert County Marketplace in Elizabeth. This indoor/outdoor market is open on weekends from now through December and will feature incredible offerings from local business owners. Vendors include Adornable Permanent Jewelry, All About Blossoms, Bee Hive Stitchers, and so many more! Be sure to stop by Casey Jones Park Pavilion between 9 am-2 pm on the market’s scheduled dates to peruse a plethora of handmade and locally produced goods.
Friday Night Market
Interested in some outdoor fun with the community? Stop by to enjoy Friday Night Markets at Running Creek Park from 5 pm-9 pm. Hosted by the Elizabeth Brewing Company, the Friday Night Market is open every Friday through August 16th. Here, you’ll find a plethora of entertainment, great food and beer. There will be food trucks galore on site, plus free tarot readings provided by Jim Bridgham and Shae Rufe (on August 9th only).
Chamber ElizaPalooza Festival and Dog Parade
On September 7th, we hope you’ll join the first annual Chamber ElizaPalooza Festival and Dog Parade. From 11 am until 6 pm at Casey Jones Park, the Elizabeth Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation will host a street festival to rival any larger town. There will be many festivities to explore, including vendors, live music, food trucks, and so much more. Be sure to stick around for the dog parade!
Even as summertime draws to a close, our charming county offers excellent opportunities to seize the day. We hope you’ll enjoy one or more of the events highlighted here as we bid farewell to summer and prepare for the fall. One of the best parts about living in Elbert County is the incredible sense of community we have here. If you’re interested in becoming a resident of Elizabeth, we’d love for you to explore available homes here in Independence. To learn more about move-in ready homes, please contact our team.