Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo—May 5—is a festive, lively Mexican celebration that has become increasingly popular in the United States. Although many believe it to be Mexico’s Independence Day, May 5 actually represents Mexico’s victory over France at the battle of Puebla in 1862. The following resources summarize the history of the holiday, and highlight some contemporary celebrations. Find out how and where to enjoy Cinco de Mayo through links to prominent festivals nationwide, or use the sources below to plan your own fiesta. For teachers, the Guide offers links to lesson plans and eco-friendly crafts. For a Spanish-language version of the Guide, click here.
Expand All Guide SectionsHistory and Traditions of Cinco de Mayo
Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza’s victory over the French on May 5, 1862, symbolizes ... read more »
Best Places to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
Because Cinco de Mayo has become so popular in the United States, many U.S. cities host elaborate celebrations and festivals on May 5, complete with pageants, parades and eating contests. Below is a list of cities with some of the biggest Cinco de Mayo scenes.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Many of the following Web sites suggest specific Cinco de Mayo celebrations: if you’re interested in discovering Cinco de Mayo events in locations not mentioned here, use findingDulcinea’s Nightlife Web Guide to locate smaller events on May 5.
- If you plan on booking a trip to attend any of these Cinco de Mayo festivities, refer to findingDulcinea’s Travel Web Guide for help planning your excursion.
Dulcinea's Picks
For Puebla, Mexico …
Mexperience
is a Mexican travel resource with a special section on travel to Puebla. Use this site to familiarize yourself with what Puebla has to offer, including hotels, attractions and restaurants. This resource can help you make the most of the city at the heart of the Cinco de Mayo celebration. Learn more about the day’s events by contacting the Puebla Tourist Information Office.
Helium
offers several articles detailing the Cinco de Mayo celebration in Puebla. Learn about the Civic Military Parade, including where it begins and how to catch a glimpse or participate. Scroll to the bottom of this entry for more articles on Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Puebla. All of the information presented here is user-generated, so double-check with the Puebla tourist office if you have specific itinerary questions.
For Santa Barbara, California …
The Santa Barbara Cinco de Mayo Festival
includes art, music, dancing and crafts. Read “Entertainment & Events” for festival details. Or go to “Pictures” for a look at past Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
For San Francisco, California …
Mission Neighborhood Centers
host the Cinco de Mayo festival in San Francisco. The “Kick-off Celebration” section promises an extensive menu with bocaditos, antojitos, gorditas, empanadas and lots of margaritas. With so many visiting dancers and musicians, the “Entertainment” is equally substantial.
For San Marco, Texas …
Viva! Cinco de Mayo
celebrates May 5 in San Marcos, Texas. The schedule includes a menudo cook-off, a parade, a beauty pageant that crowns Little Miss Cinco de Mayo, live music and Mexican folk dancers.
For Washington, D.C. …
Maru Montero Dance Company
performs every year in Washington, D.C., and hosts a Cinco de Mayo festival with traditional music and dancing at the Washington Monument. Crafts like piñata- and puppet-making entertain younger visitors. Latin American food is served and Mexican cowboys and cowgirls show off their costumes and horses near the main stage.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo at Home
Throw your own Cinco de Mayo celebration, complete with colorful activities, music and authentic ... read more »
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