Parade of Lights Brings Community to Imperial

IMPERIAL — With Christmas, New Year’s, and other winter holidays approaching, the city of Imperial brought family, friends, visitors, and others together to celebrate the city’s pride with its annual Parade of Lights. 

Civilians and organizations from across the county came out to Imperial to celebrate the holidays with a festive street fair and parade. From government agencies like the Brawley Fire Department and Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, to even corporate sponsors like United Toyota and other local businesses. 

Juan, an Imperial native who did not give his name, said he enjoys the event because “it feels like a big community, we get together and enjoy something nice and full of color.” 

Juan’s friend, who didn’t give their name, an El Centro native, liked the parade because “the lights look better during nighttime and Imperial has more community than El Centro.” 

Imperial City Council members who participated in the parade wished all residents a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’s. Throughout the event families took pictures and video of the parade, savored all the festive snacks and foods, and relished the performances and entertainment from the parade participants.

Some attendees commented that they would appreciate it if more food vendors and merchants could be added. Officer Lisaro with the Imperial Police Department commented that it would be appreciated if crowd areas could be longer so people don’t bunch up in one single area. 

Still, live music, street performers, cultural performances, and government and civic pride all filled the streets. From local school marching bands to law enforcement agencies to even the department of sanitation’s new street sweeper, all were included and welcomed.