Fiesta del Valle Lights Up United Imperial Valley with Food, Music and Community Spirit

-Editorial 

The festive atmosphere of summer arrived at United Imperial Valley as residents from across Imperial County gathered for Fiesta del Valle Flavor on July 3rd on the eve of America’s 250th anniversary of independence, a community event that combined live entertainment, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Held in the Toyota dealership parking lot, the event began at 6 p.m. and continued through midnight, drawing a large crowd that filled tables throughout the venue and created a lively setting for attendees.

“It’s nice to have a community come together like this and support small businesses,” said Jorge Clue, general manager of United Toyota. “A lot of these mom-and-pop vendors don’t have brick-and-mortar locations, so it’s meaningful to see them supported the way they are. It’s beautiful. This is what Imperial Valley is all about. We are united.”

A variety of food vendors participated, offering cuisines and specialties ranging from Peruvian and Cuban dishes to seafood, hot dogs and other local favorites. Participating businesses included Antonio’s Baja Catch 22, Dawgs Dogs of Imperial Valley and several emerging and established local food entrepreneurs. The event provided vendors with an opportunity to showcase their products and connect with customers from throughout the region. 

The event was organized with the involvement of Gerardo Antonio of Antonio’s Baja Catch 22, who has helped coordinate similar gatherings aimed at promoting collaboration among local vendors and small businesses.

Entertainment began with a performance by 2da Generación, a young Imperial Valley musical group whose energetic set encouraged attendees to dance and participate throughout the evening. 

The program also featured a performance by the Heber cheerleaders, who took the stage before an enthusiastic audience. Their participation carried special significance due to the support they previously received from United Toyota. Last year, the cheerleading program lost uniforms in a fire. In response, United Toyota assisted the group by providing support to replace the uniforms. 

Annel Núñez, owner of Núñez Dance Studio, said she was excited to perform at the event. 

“I’m so excited with my girls. They’re ready to go perform to all the Imperial Valley.” Núñez said she was grateful for the continued support from the dealership and the community. “I’m really excited, I’m really happy, I’m really grateful for the support that Toyota keeps giving to my girls and to the community,” she said. She added that the studio’s cheer team is a community-based program with participants from across the region. “It’s a cheer team, not part of the school. It’s something that I’m creating, and it’s coming great,” Núñez said, noting that students come from cities including Calexico, Niland and Imperial.

The event also reflected the broader community involvement of United Toyota, as well as its sister dealerships, United Nissan and United Kia, which have regularly supported local organizations, schools and community groups throughout Imperial Valley.