Come May and the vibrant festival of Cinco de Mayo knocks for celebration! This cultural festival is celebrated on the 5th of May each year in Mexico and other countries with significant Mexican populations. The festival is an opportunity for people to enjoy Mexican cuisine, music, and culture.
What is Cinco de Mayo?
The festival commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The victory in Puebla galvanized the Mexican forces but turned out to be short-lived, and France later occupied the country, installing Maximilian I as emperor. Not until 1867 did the new Mexican Republic finally expel the French, execute Maximilian I and regain control of the country.
In Mexico, the festival is mainly celebrated in the state of Puebla, where the Battle of Puebla took place. The celebrations usually include parades, reenactments of the battle, and traditional food and drinks.
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How Is It Celebrated?
However now, the festival is also an excuse to treat oneself to nachos, tacos, mezcal and margaritas. The festival is celebrated with music, dance, food, and drinks.
One of the main attractions of Cinco de Mayo is the food. Mexican cuisine is known for its vibrant and bold flavours, and it is enjoyed by people all over the world. Traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, and salsa are popular choices during the festival. Many restaurants and food trucks offer special Cinco de Mayo menus, and people also host parties and potlucks with friends and family.
In addition to food, music and dance are also important parts of Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Mariachi music, a traditional style of music from Mexico, is often played during the festival. Mariachi bands, dressed in traditional attire, play guitars, trumpets, and violins, and sing songs in Spanish.
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Another popular tradition during Cinco de Mayo is the breaking of piñatas. Piñatas are colourful containers filled with candy and toys, and they are hung from a rope or branch. Blindfolded participants take turns hitting the piñata with a stick until it breaks open, and the candy and toys spill out. Piñatas are often shaped like animals or cartoon characters, and they are a fun activity for children and adults.
Does the festival of Cinco de Mayo interest you, too? Let us know!
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons