On July 4 we celebrate our Independence, and now for a third year in September we celebrate our Independents. Independents’ Day replaces fireworks and cookouts with a celebration of independent culture, commerce and creativity.

If you haven’t been before, mark your calendars for an event like no other. Head to the corner of Gay Street and Pearl Alley where the festivities will be in full force on September 15 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. You’ll find 36 bands, an electronic dance area, live visual arts, crafters and more. Plus you can enjoy tasty vittles from Dine Originals favorites and fabulous food trucks.

If you have been before, you won’t find a clone of a previous event. The organizers pride themselves on bringing in new groups each year to organize different features. The highlights of 2012’s iteration include Craft Alley, Fashion Collection (with local fashion designers), a Kid’s Space, an Electronic Dance Area, Comedy Showcase, a Mini-Film Festival, a Photo Booth, Local Recordland (with vinyl from a variety of stores), Urban Scrawl (live mural painting) and more, plus local food and delicious drinks.

This event really is unlike any other. Visit their website and explore all of what will be on tap. Get Independent!