Festivale Cinco de Mayo – Saturday, May 3

Hosted by the Historic Valley Junction Foundation at Railroad Park and 5th Street in Valley Junction, this annual event, now in its fourth year, celebrates the Mexican heritage of the many railroad workers who moved to the area during the establishment years of Valley Junction. Visitors are invited to enjoy Mexican foods, artwork, live music, dancing, and family activities. Fun starts at noon. Free.

Farmer’s Market/Music in the Junction - May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (Thursdays at 4 pm)

Over 100 vendors fill up the first three blocks of 5th Street in Valley Junction for the weekly Farmer’s Market that runs through October 2. Railroad Park then plays host to a beverage garden and popular local bands who play from 6pm-8pm for Music in the Junction. Over 3000 people come to this very popular event each week. Free.

Download a Music in the Junction band list here.

Pancake Breakfast - Saturday, May 17

The Lions Club and Eddie Davis Community Center will be hosting a pancake breakfast at the Eddie Davis Community Center in Valley Junction from 8am - noon. Ticket prices are $5 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.

Spring Art Market - Sunday, May 18

From 11 am to 5 pm the streets of 5th Street become host to a variety of artists from around the country. Over one hundred artists and craftspeople will be participating in this outdoor, juried festival. A wide variety of items will be available, including photography, pottery, paintings, prints, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, clothing and much more. There will also be hands-on fun for children, food vendors, artists’ demonstrations, and musical entertainment taking place on three stages throughout the day. Free

Public Works Day in Valley Junction - Thursday, May 22

During National Public Works Week the West Des Moines Public Works Department displays all types of Public Works equipment on 5th Street during the Farmers Market. They also provide various displays, as well as games for kids and adults. The Metro Waste Authority and Artistic Waste have also been on hand the last two years to inform attendees about their role in our City. Free.

Musical Event - Saturday, May 24

Once again, 5th Street in Valley Junction will transform into the site of a huge street party. There will be three bands playing throughout the day. The evening will peak with a performance by Kool and the Gang, who will sing such hits as “Get Down On It,” “Ladies Night,” and of course, “Celebration.” Opening bands are the local favorite, Flipside, followed by Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls, who will feature tributes to Tina Turner, The Supremes, Donna Summer, and Martha Reeves. Gates open at 4pm; show starts at 5pm. Tickets are $15 until May 10th; $20 after May 10th; and $25 at the door. Tickets are available at any ticketmaster outlet, including the Val Air Ballroom. Click here to purchase tickets online now!