Cinco de Mayo: A Tale of Two Celebrations

U.S. Festivities: A Vibrant Showcase of Culture

It’s Cinco de Mayo time in the United States, and the excitement is palpable. Venues across the nation are preparing for a grand celebration on May 5, a date that, while widely misunderstood, signifies a vibrant display of Mexican American culture. From California, where the tradition dates back to the 1800s, the day is marked with parades, street food, block parties, mariachi competitions, and baile folklórico. These folkloric dances feature performers in bright, ruffled dresses, adorned with shiny ribbons and braids, capturing the spirit and cultural richness of the occasion.

For many Americans, regardless of their heritage, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a day to indulge in tequila shots and enjoy tortilla chips laden with melted cheddar—a version of Mexican cuisine that is quite unfamiliar in Mexico itself. However, this focus on festivity has not been without criticism. The commercialization by beer companies and the perpetuation of offensive stereotypes, like oversized straw sombreros and fake mustaches, have sparked some controversy surrounding the holiday’s observance in the U.S.

What Cinco de Mayo Really Commemorates

Cinco de Mayo marks the historical victory of Mexican troops over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This underdog triumph provided a significant morale boost to the Mexican forces, commanded by Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza. Despite being outnumbered and less equipped, their victory over the French is a pivotal moment in Mexican history.

To this day, Puebla, the central Mexican city where this battle occurred, holds annual historical reenactments and parades featuring participants dressed in period French and Mexican army uniforms.

What It Is Not

Contrary to common belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day—Mexico’s most significant national holiday. Independence Day commemorates the September 16, 1810, call to arms against Spanish rule, made by Rev. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The celebration peaks on the night of September 15 with the president’s reenactment of El Grito de Independencia from the National Palace, culminating in a vibrant spectacle in Mexico City’s Zócalo.

This Year’s Cinco de Mayo in the U.S.

With May 5 falling on a Sunday this year, the stage is set for an ideal day of relaxation and revelry. Bars and restaurants across the country are gearing up with special promotions and all-day happy hours, ready to host festivities especially in areas with significant Mexican American populations. This celebration, while distinct from the more subdued observances in Mexico, underscores the unique ways in which cultural heritage is commemorated and adapted around the world.