Related Articles
-Editorial
The Imperial Irrigation District held its “Flip the Switch” ceremony for the second annual Festival of Lights at Imperial Valley Fairgrounds on Dec. 6, welcoming families from across the valley to a free holiday celebration featuring illuminated displays, ornaments, and informational materials about IID programs. The Festival of Lights will continue on December 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21, from 5:30 to 9:30 each night.
The festival experience increases as attendees progress through the display, beginning with their entrance into the “Land of Sweets” and unfolding scene by scene as additional illuminated features come into view.
IID Board Chair Gina Dockstader said the event has continued to grow since its inaugural year. “It’s a little bit bigger,” she said. “I would expect that every year it’ll be a little bit bigger, a little bit better.”
As part of the tradition, visitors received a free holiday ornament and were offered pamphlets highlighting various IID programs. Dockstader said the event provides an opportunity for residents to learn more about district services in a relaxed setting.
Dockstader added that one of her favorite moments from last year’s event was watching attendees arrive in festive attire. “I really enjoyed seeing how many people were in their pajamas and how many people brought their pets, from dogs to cats,” she said.
IID Director Alex Cardenas said last year there were 1,200 people who attended this event.
“This is not a new tradition, it’s a growing tradition,” Cardenas said.
El Centro Mayor Sonia Carter said the event offers a welcome opportunity for residents to gather during the holiday season. “I am very excited about this. The community is going to be excited when they see this,” Carter said.
“It’s something that brings the community together, where the kids can see all the lights and enjoy the light show. I am very happy for the IID, and congratulations to the IID for bringing this event to us.”
Imperial Mayor Pro Tem Ida Obeso-Martinez said the community has embraced the annual celebration. “I think this is an amazing event that the Imperial Irrigation District puts on for our residents,” Obeso said. “It’s a free event, the families love it, and I think it’s going to get bigger every year. We’re happy to host it here in the city.”
IID General Manager Jaime Asbury said the district launched the Festival of Lights to create “a safe, joyful, and memorable experience for the entire Imperial Valley.”
Welcoming attendees to the second annual event, Asbury said the celebration reflects IID’s broader commitment to the community it serves.
“Beyond providing water and power every day, we want to invest in moments that bring our community closer together,” she said. Asbury noted that this year’s festival features improved traffic flow and enhanced lighting displays. “We’re proud to offer this free event to the community, and we hope you enjoy every moment,” she said. “May this holiday lighting display inspire joy, hope, and togetherness this holiday season.”
