Cinco de Mayo 2024: What is the Mexican holiday and how is it celebrated?

Cinco de Mayo literally translates as ‘Fifth of May’
Ballet Folklorico de la Tierra del Encanto dancers during the Cinco De Mayo Fiesta in New Mexico
Paul Ratje / AFP/ Getty Images

This Sunday, thousands of people will be relishing in all things Mexican as countries around the world celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

The Mexican holiday commemorates the date of the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

Whilst it’s a relatively minor occasion in Mexico, in the US, Cinco de Mayo is a large, joyous celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.

Here’s everything you need to know about Cinco de Mayo, and how you can join in with the celebrations.

When is Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo literally translates as “Fifth of May”, so is celebrated on this date every year to mark the Battle of Puebla.

It’s not a federal holiday in Mexico, so offices, banks, and stores remain open.

Baby Alexander and his father Alfonso Mendoza attend Cinco de Mayo festivities at El Pueblo de Los Angeles
Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images

What was the Battle of Puebla?

In response to Mexico being unable to repay its debt to European governments, France, then ruled by Napoleon III, invaded the small Mexican town of Puebla de Los Angeles in 1862.

Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Mexican army defeated the French.

The victory was short-lived, however, as France would later go on to occupy Mexico for a number of years.

Still, Cinco de Mayo is a cause for celebration in Puebla and in the US, especially in areas with a large Mexican-American population.

Why is Cinco de Mayo important in Mexican culture?

For many Mexican-Americans, Cinco de Mayo is seen as a celebration of their heritage.

Cinco de Mayo in the US has its roots in the 1960s, when many Mexican-American activists who were involved in the country’s civil rights movement used the day as a source of pride.

Mexicans re-enact the Battle of Puebla during Cinco de Mayo
Susana Gonzalez / Newsmakers

How is Cinco de Mayo celebrated?

In Puebla, thousands of locals gather to take part in a massive parade, dressing as French and American soldiers to re-enact the war.

Thanks to the commercialisation of the holiday in the US, the day is all about Mexican food, culture, traditions and, of course, tequila.

Similarly, in London, bars across the capital take the opportunity to host events, with drink deals on Mexican-inspired cocktails. To name a few, Covent Garden is holding a Cinco de Mayo Fest on Sunday 5. From 11am to 6pm, and you can expect artisan vendors, face painting and live music. Meanwhile, 1910 Cantina in Parsons Green will be putting on a special menu of flavoured margaritas and more to celebrate. Meanwhile, temper is offering savings at the Covent Garden site from 5pm-10.30pm, with £5 Margaritas alongside a menu of specials and a classic Mexican Mariachi band playing on the terrace and in the restaurant.

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