Independence Walk of Hearts: Celebrate Love Downtown in February

Independence is the perfect place to celebrate this month’s traditions of showing affection to loved ones, and the Independence Downtown Association is excited to invite the community to the annual “Walk of Hearts” event. Personalized hearts will be hung on the light posts during the first week of February, just in time for Valentine’s Day, and will remain displayed the entire month, decorating downtown with beauty and expressions of love.

The “Walk of Hearts” event is a yearly tradition for downtown Independence and raises funds that directly pay for the exquisitely beautiful flower baskets that are hung in the Spring. Community members, businesses and organizations alike purchase hearts — sold by the IDA during January — and can add a special message to one or both sides of the heart. These hearts offer a unique opportunity to honor loved ones, celebrate special occasions, or simply share a message of love and kindness in the community.

The colorful hearts will adorn every light post in historic downtown Independence, creating a festive and heart-filled atmosphere for all to enjoy. Visitors can stroll through town all month and peruse the memos of love on every corner. In past years, they’ve even contained marriage proposals! But it’s not just for romance — many messages are from friends, family and colleagues. What a delightful surprise to wander downtown and spy a heartfelt message meant especially for you! The hearts are collected in early March, and some are reused from year to year.

The “Walk of Hearts” Event is a wonderful way to support the Independence Downtown Association while adding a personal touch to the downtown area. The IDA is dedicated to keeping historic charm present in Independence, and in addition to hosting the “Walk of Hearts,” they provide all the downtown flower baskets, hang and maintain holiday wreaths in the winter months and promote local businesses and events.

The city is home to many locally owned businesses and eateries, so exploring Main Street and beyond is always an adventure. To add to the celebration, many downtown shops and restaurants often offer special deals and themed meals for the occasion. Follow the Independence Downtown Association on social media for updates, and plan an excursion downtown this February with the ones you love. Whether celebrating a loved one or simply spreading some cheer, each heart becomes part of a beautiful, community-wide display of love.

For more information on the “Walk of Hearts” event, visit the IDA website at www.downtownindependence.com/hearts.