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.
Summer is beautiful in our sunny state, but it can be harsh on plants. Even though our summers are drier, your garden can thrive during this time of year with special attention. Interested in keeping your garden going throughout the hottest months? Here, we share tips for ensuring that your plants continue to flourish:
Water According to Plants’ Needs
We all know that plants need water, but you can take your green thumb up a notch by paying close attention to the plant’s specific needs. For example, veggies, annuals, and perennials will do best with deep–but not necessarily frequent–watering. Although you may be inclined to give a light watering daily, this practice will keep the roots near the soil’s surface. Shallow, frequent watering isn’t great for root health, so you’re better off spending a few minutes in the morning saturating the base of the plants. You can do this every other day or even once every few days, making sure not to splash the foliage (as this can cause fungal damage). Please remember that container-grown plants need more frequent watering, as the soil will dry out more quickly.
Provide Sun Protection
It’s not just humans who need sun protection—plants need a respite from the sun’s rays, too! You can think of mulch as sunscreen for your garden. Layering your garden with mulch a couple of inches deep will help prevent the soil from cracking or drying out between waterings. Mulch is also effective at keeping roots cooler, deterring weeds from growing, and retaining water. Chemical-free grass clippings are ideal for vegetables, and shredded bark or nugget mulches are great for ornamental plants.
Cultivate the Soil
To maximize the water plants get, take a few minutes to cultivate the soil as often as possible. This can be as simple as lightly scratching the soil with your fingertips before watering. Cultivating the soil is a tried-and-true method for keeping weed growth at bay while opening up air channels for enhanced water infiltration.
With more than 300 sunny days a year, the Denver metropolitan area can be a tricky place to keep a garden growing. Although the sun is vital to plant health, the drier climate can pose a challenge. If you’re committed to keeping your garden healthy all year round, the tips highlighted here may help you meet your goals. If you’ve been dreaming of a yard perfect for gardening, we’d love for you to explore available homes here in Independence. Whether you’d like to use your backyard or carve out a spot for yourself in our community gardens, our neighborhood is ideal for those who love the outdoors. Please contact our team to inquire about move-in ready homes or learn more about our conservation community.
If you’re looking forward to hosting loved ones at your brand-new home, a backyard barbecue is a quintessential way to enjoy the season. Ready to soak up the sun and treat the special people in your life to delicious food and great company? Check out our tips for hosting the perfect summer BBQ:
Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
Even if your backyard offers plenty of shade, you’ll probably want to avoid throwing a party during the hottest part of the day. For a short and sweet lunchtime barbecue, you can aim for a start time around noon. If you prefer a later start to your shindig, consider waiting until the evening (around 6:00 pm). Either way, your guests will appreciate staying out of the sun’s most intense rays.
Keep the Menu Simple
One of the best parts about a casual barbecue is that no one expects fanfare. To save yourself some stress, keep the menu simple. Stick to one or two sources of protein and two to three sides. An easy way to combine protein and veggies is to make kabobs! Just slice up your favorite grill-friendly vegetables and layer them on a skewer with some chicken or beef. Grill for a few minutes per side, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will love. Need some inspiration? This tried and true chicken kabob recipe is perfect for summer grilling.
Offer Plenty of Seating
Of course, we all want our guests to be comfortable, so don’t forget to provide ample seating! Many details go into planning a gathering, and seating is one of the most frequently forgotten must-haves. While preparing the guest list, ensure you have enough chairs to go around. Now is the time to go through the garage and see if you can find those folding chairs you haven’t seen in a while (or ask a friend if they have any you could borrow).
Cover Food with Netting
On a beautiful sunny day when you’ve cooked a delicious meal, the last thing you want is for flies to crash the party. If you’re serving the food outdoors, stock up on covers to keep unwanted visitors away. These fly nets are practical and convenient for keeping food safe during outdoor events. If you’re planning a gathering that will be both indoors and outdoors, it may be wise to invest in a magnetic screen for the doorway so guests can easily filter in and out without having to close the door. This accessory can come in handy all season long!
Summer is a beautiful time of year to gather with loved ones and enjoy quality time together. If you’d like to host a barbecue to celebrate the season, we hope these tips are helpful. There’s nothing like hosting your first party in your new home, and we’d love to help you make this dream a reality. Please contact our team if you’d like to learn more about move-in-ready new homes.
One of the most important ways to impact your community is by pitching in to help worthy local causes. Elbert County is known for its warm, friendly towns, and we can keep it this way by contributing when and how we can. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time or donating, here are some ways you can make a difference:
Support Elbert County Partnership
Elbert County is growing quickly (by 2% each year)! As we grow, we want to ensure that our communities remain a great place to raise a family, build a business, and live the Colorado way. Elbert County Partnership was created to reach these goals and is on a mission to promote the common good of all residents of our incredible county. Getting involved with this non-profit is easy, and there are many ways to get involved in your community. You can learn more about volunteer opportunities here.
Donate to Elbert County Coalition Outreach
Elbert County Coalition Outreach (ECCO) is a coalition of non-profit organizations that work together to provide services and programs for our community. Since its founding in 2006, ECCO has provided crucial support to citizens in need. This extraordinary coalition does everything, from offering emergency services to connecting community members with additional resources or assistance. ECCO operates a “second chance” shop in Kiowa, Colorado, that accepts clothing, home décor, jewelry, toys, and more. To donate or learn more about ways to get involved, please contact this organization.
Become a Friend of the Library
Pines and Plains Libraries aims to improve access to literacy and technology in Elbert County. This nonprofit organization serves Elbert Library, Elizabeth Library, Kiowa Library, and Simla Library. Libraries are a treasured part of our community, and you can volunteer your time and skills by becoming a “friend of the library.” As a friend of Elizabeth Library, you’ll play a vital role in helping the library flourish. Whether you raise money, participate in book sale events, or just help out however needed, you can feel good about contributing to your community. Follow the organization’s Facebook page to keep up with the latest news.
Volunteer at StableStrides
If you’re looking for a way to give your time, make the short trip to Elbert to volunteer at StableStrides. This non-profit, founded in 1981, provides horse-centered activities for individuals of all ages with adaptive needs. Some services offered here include adaptive riding, mental health services, and physical and occupational therapy. Donations are always welcome, and you can apply to volunteer. No horse experience is required, but you must attend an orientation before your first volunteer session.
Elbert County is a beautiful place to call home. Residents help each other out, and there are numerous ways you can contribute, too. If you want to join our tight-knit community, we have beautiful move-in-ready homes in Elizabeth, Colorado. Please contact our team to learn more about availability in our new community.
With summertime in full swing, it’s time to start adding some fun events to your schedule! Whether you live in Colorado or are just stopping by, our state offers unforgettable experiences for everyone. The Centennial State is known for its sunny, mild summers, and there’s no shortage of extraordinary events. If you’re interested in attending some of the largest and most well-known and popular gatherings, we share a few of the options here:
June 8th-August 11th: Colorado Shakespeare Festival
If you’re a Shakespeare or local theater fan, you won’t want to miss out on the iconic Colorado Shakespeare Festival. Although a Shakespearian celebration may not be as flashy as the other events highlighted here, it’s a can’t-miss for theater enthusiasts. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival has performed for over 60 seasons and brings classic theater to Boulder. From June 8th until August 11th, trek to the Roe Green Theatre to enjoy Macbeth, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and Arden of Faversham. Tickets are available here.
June 14-16: Food and Wine Classic
Aspen’s annual Food and Wine Classic is one of the state’s best-known events. Each summer, attendees flock to this beautiful and iconic mountain town to participate in cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits tastings, and discussions led by top chefs and beverage experts. This year, the event will run in the heart of Aspen from June 14th to 16th. Passes usually sell out well before this world-renowned culinary gathering, so if you’d like to attend, secure your spot ASAP.
June 21-23: Strawberry Days
There’s nothing better than ripe strawberries during the summertime. Glenwood Springs commemorates the beginning of summer each year with Strawberry Days, one of our state’s oldest and most beloved traditions. From June 21st to 23rd, the Glenwood Springs Chamber Foundation invites you to celebrate the season with free ice cream, strawberries, and festivities. This year’s theme is “Decades of Beats and Berries,” so you can expect plenty of live music while enjoying fresh strawberries!
July 5-7: Cherry Creek Arts Festival
Our state is home to an astounding number of artists, and CherryArts does vital work to make art accessible for all in Colorado. The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is the nonprofit’s premier event and one of the largest art festivals in the country. This year, the event will take place from July 5th to 7th on the streets of Cherry Creek North. More than 250 artists will be in attendance showcasing their talents, so come ready to explore Denver’s vibrant art scene as you enjoy live music, art education, and more.
July 27-August 4: Elbert County Fair
The 90th annual Elbert County Fair runs from July 27th to August 4th. This fair is steeped in history, and commemorates “how the West was grown.” Admission is free, and there are many fun activities to participate in. From mutton bustin’ to live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. Please note that certain events, such as the Bellamy Brothers concert and Centennial Farms and Ranches Banquet require the purchase of tickets.
August 23-September 2: Colorado State Fair and Rodeo
As summer ends, make your way to Pueblo for the historic Colorado State Fair and Rodeo. This event has been an annual tradition for over 150 years and highlights Pueblo’s role in the diversification of agriculture in the United States. Even in contemporary times, you can’t beat a good state fair. You’ll find live entertainment, exhilarating competitions, quirky vendors, and mouthwatering Pueblo green chiles here.
If you’re ready to have some fun this summer, the events mentioned here are sure to add excitement to the season. Colorado is a wonderful place to call home, and we’d love to help you find your dream home here. Independence is located in Elizabeth, Colorado, offering small-town charm with easy access to Denver. If you’d like to learn more about our new community and explore move-in-ready homes, please contact our team.
One of the most exciting aspects of moving into a brand new home is the ability to decorate and furnish it to your heart’s content. Whether starting fresh with new furniture or searching for a few updated pieces, you can’t go wrong with incorporating timeless décor into your space. Interested in curating an aesthetic that will never go out of style? Here are a few recommendations:
Chesterfield Sofa
If you’re looking for a couch that offers more than just a comfortable place to sit, consider a Chesterfield sofa. This style is defined by its soft, luxurious curves and looks just as lovely in a home now as it did during the 18th century. A Chesterfield traditionally features button-tufted upholstery, which lends a classic look to a living room or study. Interested in purchasing a high-quality Chesterfield? Each sofa from this company is handmade in Great Britain, offering authenticity and unmatched style.
Venetian Mirror
Mirrors are a staple in any home, as they’re perfect for adding light, depth, and visual appeal. Venetian mirrors originated in Murano, an island north of Venice. This mirror style was initially only available to royalty and the ultra-wealthy and remains a symbol of timeless luxury. We love this modern take on a Venetian mirror by Anthropologie.
Tufted Headboard
If you’re going for a cozy yet polished look, a tufted headboard could be an intuitive fit for your bedroom. Tufted headboards have been around for centuries and have effortlessly withstood the test of time. This headboard style is ideal for homeowners who want to create an inviting and comfortable environment and often pairs well with decorative pillows and a plush comforter. Need some inspiration? Bed Bath and Beyond has a plethora of options!
Chandelier
Excellent lighting is crucial in any home, and chandeliers are designed just for this purpose. Chandeliers are historical icons, from large brass versions in the Middle Ages to English glass finery in the 1700s. Whether you love the glamorous look of a traditional crystal chandelier or prefer something more modern, there’s an option to fit your aesthetic here.
A newly constructed home is a blank canvas to make your own. If you’re ready to bring your vision to life with timeless furniture and décor, we hope the ideas mentioned here inspire you. Still searching for the perfect place to put down roots? We know you’ll love life at Independence. Located in Elizabeth, Colorado, our conservation community offers small-town charm and sustainably built new homes. If you want to learn more about move-in-ready homes, please contact our team.