Cinco de Mayo (“the Fifth of May”) takes place, naturally, every year on May 5, which this year falls on a Tuesday. It commemorates not Mexican Independence Day, as is often incorrectly assumed (that’s September 16), but a pivotal 1862 victory in the Second Franco-Mexican War, in which a vastly outnumbered Mexican force defeated a more powerful French army at the city Puebla, in the Mexican state of the same name.
Check out our previous articles on the holiday for more information on its history and customs.
Cinco de Mayo has been a major event in the United States since the news of the Mexican victory in Puebla reached the southwestern states in 1862. Today, it is arguably a bigger holiday in the United States than it is in its native Mexico, as here it has been not only an acknowledgement of history, but a celebration of Mexican-American culture and heritage. It is often important as a community event, especially in areas with large Mexican-American populations, with demonstrations of authentic Mexican cuisine, music, and dance typically being showcased. The biggest annual Cinco de Mayo celebration in the U.S. is Los Angeles, California’s Fiesta Broadway.
Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday in the United States, and you can expect schools, businesses, and banks and government buildings to be operating on normal hours. Gathering places such as bars and Mexican restaurants are common spots for Cinco de Mayo celebrations, so expect crowds and/or traffic around these areas and, if you want to dine out, make sure to call ahead and make a reservation to ensure there will be space for your group.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy Cinco de Mayo!
