SantaCaliGon

SantaCaliGon Days Festival celebrates Independence's pivotal role in America's westward expansion, honoring the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon trails. Taking place over Labor Day weekend on the Historic Independence Square, this multi-day festival brings frontier history to life with "Main Street 1849"—a recreation that lets families step back in time. Kids can pan for gold, write letters as if from the prairie, and learn about pioneer life through hands-on activities that make history engaging and fun. The festival features hundreds of vendor booths selling arts, crafts, and food, plus free entertainment performances on both the Community Stage and Main Stage. You'll also find an authentic blacksmith demonstration and plenty to explore at your own pace. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it an accessible way to spend a long weekend celebrating local heritage. The event runs daily throughout the weekend, so you can drop by for a few hours or spend the whole day discovering what frontier life was really like.