Celebration of Cinco de Mayo in Historic Valley Junction, IA

 
Celebrating the Mexican heritage of 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 (bringing the railroad to the area) become a reality.
 
West Des Moines, Iowa (April 25, 2014) - Travel south of the border as the Historic Valley Junction Foundation presents its 10th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival on Saturday, May 3, 2014, Noon to 10:00 pm. Located in the 200 & 300 Blocks of 5th Street in Historic Valley Junction, West Des Moines, IA, visitors will enjoy Mexican foods, artwork, live music, dancing and family activities. 
 
Scheduled entertainment includes dancers Los Jovenes Embajadores.  Live music will be performed by Mariachi Zapata, Mariachi Tigres de Valle and The Tony Valdez Large Band.
 
Celebrating the Mexican heritage of 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 (bringing the railroad to the area) become a reality. In honor of this strong heritage, there will be a formal proclamation/announcement of the Cinco de Mayo King and Queen. 
 
Valley Junction was established in 1846 when its first settler, James Jordan arrived. This name was chosen because it was located in the valley of the Raccoon River and served as the railroad junction. 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. 
 
Visit www.valleyjunction.com for more information and calendar of events.
 
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