Cinco de Mayo is here! But, hold off on the tacos for a minute and get informed a little about this Mexican celebration. Don’t worry, we won’t take a lot of your time. Once the history express course is over, we’ll share with you a line of incredible events for this holiday!
History of Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is a minor holiday that celebrates a single battle won over the French army during the 1860s known as the Battle of Puebla. Mexico had just suffered financial losses and was forced to pay back debt to various European countries. The French saw this as a perfect opportunity to take over the Mexican Territory. The Mexican army however was outnumbered by the French, but these underdogs ended up winning the Battle of Puebla. So what does this have to do with the U.S., you wonder? Well, this Mexican victory played a major factor in not allowing the French empire to help the Confederacy states win the American Civil War. Many people have the misconception of 5 de Mayo being Mexico’s Independence Day, however, this is not true. The Battle of Puebla was seen as a symbolic victory for the Mexican government and allowed Abraham Lincoln to lead major Union victories.
Cinco de Mayo in Mexico is celebrated very differently than in the United States. In Mexico, this holiday is more of a regional holiday for the state of Puebla where the Mexican army won their surprising victory. But, other states also celebrate it. The traditions include recreations of the Battle of Puebla, parades, along with other festive activities. However, for most Mexicans, May the 5th is just like any other day. It is not considered a major holiday, so major stores and banks remain open on this day.
However, Cinco de Mayo has a very different meaning in the United States. It is mainly interpreted as a holiday to commemorate the Mexican heritage and culture found in many of our states.
Now that you have some background knowledge on Cinco de Mayo, let us give you a sample of where you enjoy this holiday here locally.
Cinco de Mayo Block Party - La Esquina
If you have been to La Esquina before, you know there will be a great street party and celebration! If you are in the downtown area Sunday, May 5th, walk over to La Esquina for a marvelous Cinco de Mayo block party. Dinner specials include taco flights, Ceviche Nayarit, elote and tamales. Thirsty for a drink? Check out their social hour drink options: margaritas all day, top-shelf margs, tequila flights, and beer specials. If you are ready to sweat off them tacos, enjoy the live music that will be happening from 1PM-6PM. You know La Esquina likes to roll down the red carpet for their special events, expect a street closure on Holmes Ave from 5PM-9PM. Purple cups will be available for you, along with vendors for some shopping. You will not be bored at La Esquina as there will be plenty to do in the streets for you to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo celebration!
Cinco Brunch - Hops and Guac
This year Hops and Guac will host a Cinco (Bottomless) Brunch from 1PM-3pm. Cure your hangover with menudo, mimosas and more for our bottomless brunch. DJ Patron will be mixing live for great music, drinks, and fun. Enjoy fajitas, tamales, menudo, and flautas on our brunch set up! Don't miss their orange, cranberry, and pineapple mimosas!
The Camp at Mid City
Turn up for Cinco de Mayo at The Camp! LIVE music with Tomas Gorrio starting at 12 PM! ETER4 takes the stage at 2 PM!
Cinco de DRINK-O SPECIALS
Cinco de Mayo FOOD SPECIALS
LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY
Market at MidCity will also be up and running from 12 - 4 PM! BRING THE WHOLE FAM OUT!!!!
Margaritas will be flowing, the music will be bumping, and the vibes will be vibing. See you Sunday, Campers!!!!
I hope you find something here to help you have a fun a fiesta for Cinco de Mayo... If we've missed an event, please feel free to add it in the comments!
