Editor’s note: On Feb. 11, the upper Valley Market announced the event was cancelled due to forecast of snow and rain. The market is reschuled for April 3rd, 11 a.m. to 3p.m. as “Easter at the Gardens.”

The Upper Valley Artists and Farmer’s Market brings love to the Sun City, Feb. 14 as it hosts Valentine’s at The Gardens. The event is expected to be filled with live music and local vendors.  

Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring their valentine for a special time of live music, local shopping, food and drinks from over 100 vendors. The highlight of this event is how locally based everything is.  

“One of the ways we built our culture (is) we do not allow resale such as other flea markets. The items that are being sold are made by those selling them. That’s what makes us unique,” lead coordinator Beto Hernandez said.  

This is the first year the event will be hosted at the Grace Gardens Events Center, which is known for its scenic views. Artists slated to perform include Elia Esparza, Josh Lucero, and Jessica Flores.  

Esparza, an Americas High School graduate, was featured  on the 11th season of the singing competition show “The Voice” and was part of Maroon 5 lead Adam Levine’s team. She also auditioned for “American Idol” in 2016. 

Josh Lucero also auditioned for “The Voice.” His musical style can be described as a unique blend of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He will be performing a musical tribute to Sinatra at the event. 

“I think it is important to highlight local, from business to music and artists who represent El Paso in a good way,” Hernandez said. “Since Valentine’s falls on a Sunday, we wanted to do something special for those who attend.” 

The market went online in March and reopened in June of 2020, when people could be present physically, but still respecting social distancing. The market has been operating since then and has been doing well in sales. It has currently sold out of local vendors for the Valentine’s day event, according to Hernandez. For some vendors, this is the main mode of market. 

COVID-19 guidelines and practices will be enforced, with each vendor required to wear masks and wash their hands often. There will be several hand washing stations placed throughout the event for attendees. Social distancing will be observed, and masks are required to attend the event.  

“There will be space at the event for people to walk around and we will not have seating,” Hernandez said. “Those who attend will definitely feel a value to the event.”  

 The market is open every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local vendors and information about future events can be found here. 

Isaiah Ramirez may be reached at prospector@utep.edu; @_IsaiahRamirez1 on Twitter.