Montgomery Village is turning 60 years old

2026 will be an exciting year for our community because Montgomery Village will turn 60 years old! This upcoming milestone year is not only a celebration of our community’s history, but it will be an opportunity for all residents to engage with each other, enjoy all the amenities available, and strengthen our neighborhood connections.

It all began in the early 1960s, when a residential developer, Kettler Brothers Inc., decided to build a new town on the old Walker farm. The developer acquired several adjacent farms and began to plan for a large-scale residential community. The Kettler brothers envisioned the spring-fed stream becoming a lake, the rich soil producing thousands of new trees, and the growing number of area families reaping the benefits of a good life. They wanted this new community to be more than a collection of houses in subdivisions; their focus was a new kind of urban development that would provide a total living environment for residents. They broke ground on Feb. 28, 1966.

Fast-forward nearly 60 years and Montgomery Village is home to more than 40,000 residents from different racial, cultural, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. All residents are encouraged to stay connected by participating in our community events and cultural initiatives and enjoying health and wellness through our recreation activities. By valuing our differences, we foster mutual respect, understanding and collaboration, so that Montgomery Village remains a thriving and inclusive environment for the many families and individuals who call Montgomery Village home.

In gearing up for the 60^th Anniversary, Montgomery Village Foundation (MVF) launched a logo design contest this past summer where residents submitted their concept for a logo that commemorates this milestone year. The winning concept was submitted by Chris Mead, and MVF thanks Chris and all the participants for their submissions. MVF Communications Department Senior Graphic Designer Maria Pullifrone adapted his concept into this fantastic MV 60^th Anniversary logo, which will be featured on several cherished giveaways next year:

So, now we have a commemorative logo, and you’re probably wondering what MVF is planning for our 60^th Anniversary Celebration, right? Well, MVF is planning a yearlong Passport Journey, and we want you to join us starting on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lake Marion Community Center, 8821 East Village Avenue. Our official 60^th Anniversary Kickoff will be held during the Recreation and Parks Open House. That day will be Montgomery Village’s actual birthday! At this event, you’ll pick up your very own Passport, enjoy a slice of birthday cake, and learn about all the 60^th Anniversary special activities and events that will be held in 2026. MVF will also have a limited number of 60^th Anniversary giveaways to hand out throughout the year. For more information, visit www.montgomeryvillage.com.

Throughout the year, you’ll explore the Village and validate your journey with stickers and stamps as you participate in various MVF activities, programs and special events. If you manage to collect 60 stickers or stamps throughout the year, you’ll earn a special 60^th Anniversary Prize, which will be awarded at the November 2026 Holiday Farmers’ Market.

So, get ready. From February to November 2026, MVF has planned 10 months of fun activities and challenges where you and your family can compete all through your passport journey as you try to reach the ultimate year-end prize.