Freakish May Weather Prompts Valley Junction to Postpone Festival Cinco de Mayo

A wintry forecast for Saturday has promoted the Historic Valley Junction Foundation to postpone its ninth annual Festival Cinco de Mayo to May 11.

The festival, which celebrates Valley Junction's Mexican heritage, was originally scheduled for Saturday.

The event will e held from noon to 10 p.m. in the 200 and 300 blocks of Fifth Street. Visitors can enjoy Mexican foods, artwork, live music, dancing and family activities.

Live Latin music, authentic dance groups, inflatables and children’s activities will be included in this signature Valley Junction event. Celebrating the Mexican heritage of many railroad workers during the establishment years of Valley Junction, this festival is an opportunity to recognize the Mexican community who helped James Jordan’s vision of bringing the railroad to the Des Moines area become a reality.

In honor of the district's strong heritage, the Historic Valley Junction Foundation will also present a proclamation and announcement of our Cinco de Mayo King and Queen.

Valley Junction was established in 1846 when its first settler, James Jordan arrived. The name Valley Junction was chosen because it was located in the valley of the Raccoon River and served as the junction for the railroad.

By 1900, the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad had moved its operation to the area. After the railroad boom ended, Valley Junction slowed its pace and changed its official name to West Des Moines in 1938. Many family members of the original railroad workers still live in the Valley Junction area today.

Valley Junction is now home to over 150 distinctive stores, restaurants, and independent businesses, each with its own unique historical character. Known for its unique specialty stores, Valley Junction is one of central Iowa’s most unique attractions. Visit our website, www.valleyjunction.com for more information and a complete calendar of events.

Festival Cinco de Mayo is part of A-May-Zing Days, a month-long celebration of West Des Moines. For a list of events and activities happening throughout the community in May, please visit www.amayzingdays.com.