- Categories:
- Cultural
- Tags:
- CulturalHistoricalMexican
- Where:
- Mexico
- Date change rule:
- Every May 5
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- 🇲🇽
Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s unexpected victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This vibrant holiday is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, particularly in the United States. Join the festivities by exploring Mexican culture, enjoying traditional foods, and supporting Mexican-owned businesses.
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Expected Cinco de Mayo Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that Cinco de Mayo brings a fiesta of deals. Expect major chains like Chipotle and Qdoba to offer BOGO deals or discounted entrees. Fast-food favorites such as Taco Bell and Del Taco often roll out special value menus. Restaurants like On The Border typically feature drink specials on margaritas and cervezas. Beverage brands such as Dos Equis and Jose Cuervo will likely run in-store promotions and sweepstakes. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 5 approaches.
Platform Guide for Cinco de Mayo
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #CincoDeMayo. Share vibrant photos of your celebrations, traditional dishes, or festive decor.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #CincoDeMayo. Film short videos showcasing your favorite Mexican recipes or dance moves.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #CincoDeMayo. Share local event listings or community celebration photos.
Cinco de Mayo Hero
Ignacio Zaragoza SeguĂn
History of Cinco de Mayo
Let’s start by clearing the biggest misconception: No, Cinco de Mayo is not the Mexican Independence Day. But, that does not mean it’s less important or notable than it actually is, for the history behind it dawns on the importance of the landscape of North America as a whole.
An economically struggling Mexico was intervened by the French for the second time, who had the hopes to gain control of the Latin American country under the rule of Napoleon III. The French General, Charles de Lorencez, directed his army towards the capital of Mexico City, with the intent to overthrow the president of Mexico, Benito Juarez.
But things didn’t go as planned, as they encountered heavy resistance, culminating at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Even if their forces had half the numbers of their opponents, the Mexican Army, led by Ignacio Zaragoza, managed to successfully win over the French army at Puebla, a city just 70 miles from Mexico City. Four days later, on May 9, Juárez declared Cinco de Mayo a national holiday.
While the battle in itself was not a major strategic win, and the French took control of Mexico in 1864, it served to lift the spirits of resistance forces and helped them to gain an alliance with the Americans to successfully make Napoleon’s forces withdraw. Since it is believed the French would have likely aided the Confederacy at the Civil War, Mexico’s resistance likely changed the history of the United States.
Pro-Union Mexican citizens in the state of California heavily celebrated the victory at the Battle of Puebla viewing it as a victory for the Union’s cause, later formalizing and spreading the annual celebrations across all of California, and Mexican-Americans all around.
Cinco de Mayo timeline
The Battle of Puebla is held and Mexico triumphs over French forces.
The first Cinco de Mayo parties in the US take place in Columbia, California as residing Mexican miners get news of the battle.
Formal celebrations happen for the first time in Sonora and spread to other California cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles
The United States Congress called for the observance of Cinco de Mayo.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
Local businesses can embrace Cinco de Mayo by hosting themed events with live mariachi music and traditional folk dancers. Restaurants and bars should offer special menus featuring authentic Mexican cuisine, from mole poblano to chiles en nogada, alongside festive drink specials. Retailers can curate displays of Mexican crafts, apparel, and decor, encouraging customers to celebrate the rich culture.
Cinco de Mayo - Survey Results
Traditions for Cinco De Mayo
In Mexico, the majority of the Cinco de Mayo celebrations occur in Puebla, where the battle had taken place. People dress up either as French and Mexican soldiers or in colorful outfits to participate in large parades. Patriotic clothing is sold by vendors for people to wear and stalls selling Mexican food are also found everywhere. Although tacos and margaritas are consumed the most on this holiday, as well as mole poblano, which is the official dish of Cinco de Mayo. The battle is also sometimes reenacted for locals and tourists to witness the Mexicans’ grand victory against the French troops.Â
Cinco de Mayo is also observed in the United States. Costume parties are hosted for friends and family, with the colors of the Mexican flag (red, white, and green) used in decorations. Mexican folk music is played and danced to. The celebrations are also taken to the streets with large parades and special promotions on Mexican food.Â
Cinco De Mayo By The Numbers
2,000 – the number of Mexican soldiers who defended the town of Puebla against 6,000 invading French forces.
16.7% – the percentage of U.S. residents of Mexican origin.
25.7 – the median age of people of Mexican origin in the United States in 2011.
700,000 – the number of U.S. military veterans of Mexican origin.
42% – the percentage of the world’s production of tortillas that Mexico accounts for.
87 million pounds – the number of avocados purchased for Cinco de Mayo.
$38,884 – the annual median income of households with a member of Mexican origin in 2011.
1925 – the year Corona Extra, Mexico’s best-selling beer, was first brewed.
20 – the types of Mexican cheeses to be feasted on — Oaxaca, a white cheese from Southern Mexico, is the most prominent.
60% – the percentage of Mexican farmers who produce corn, mostly used in the production of tortillas and beans.
Cinco de Mayo FAQs
When is Cinco de Mayo?
In 2027, Cinco de Mayo is observed on Wednesday, May 5. This year offers another chance for vibrant cultural festivities, with many communities planning mid-week events and culinary specials.
How many people celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
While not a federal holiday in the U.S. or a major holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo draws approximately 81 million participants in the U.S. annually, making it a significant cultural event.
What is the significance of the Battle of Puebla?
This pivotal battle prevented France from providing aid to the Confederacy during the American Civil War, indirectly impacting U.S. history. The unexpected win is a testament to Mexican resilience and strategic prowess.
Is Cinco de Mayo Mexican Independence Day?
This is a common misconception. Cinco de Mayo specifically celebrates the 1862 Battle of Puebla victory, whereas September 16 is the actual anniversary of Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain.
How to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo 2023
Learn about Mexico
Discover the beginnings of Cinco de Mayo and expand your appreciation of our southern neighbors. Take the time to learn more about how their history has helped shape our own and the ways in which they have contributed to U.S. culture.
Dance to Mexican music
Try learning traditional Mexican dances such as Jarabe TapatĂo. You can take a class or simply give it a go in your own home. Not only is it fun, but the exercise will help you feel less guilty when you chow down on traditional food later! The bigger the group, the bigger the fun, so invite your friends and have a little dance party!
Cook an authentic meal
One of the best ways to get to know a culture is through food. So why not try creating a traditional Mexican meal at home, either alone or with friends? Skip the standards — you can have those anytime. Instead of guacamole or tacos, try making pozole or tamales. You’ll love making it as much as eating it.
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5 Facts About Cinco De Mayo
It’s a hit with beer companies
Up to $600 million worth of beer can be sold on this day and can outsell the Superbowl and St. Patrick’s.
Tequila reaches peak sales
The USA can consume about 127 million liters of tequila and mezcal on May 5.
Avocado?
Americans can consume up to 87.3 million pounds of avocados on Cinco de Mayo.
Record-breaking taco heads
Taco Bell’s taco head Snapchat filter is the most successful ad campaign ever done in the social platform, at 224 million uses.
New York’s first
Corona became the first brand to gain permission to use the Times Square New Year's Eve ball, turning it into a lime and having it dropped on May 5, 2017.
Why We Love Cinco de Mayo
Good neighbors
When Mexico celebrates, we celebrate with them. The U.S. would not be what it is today without the support of Mexico’s great citizens. Cinco de Mayo's a great time to revel in all Mexico has to offer and celebrate the country and all it’s added to our own!
Fiestas
Who doesn’t love a good party? On Cinco de Mayo there are celebrations most everywhere. Someone may invite you to one or you may throw your own. Alternatively, many restaurants, clubs, and organizations host events. It’s a good time to relax, have fun, and enjoy the company of friends and family!
Amazing food
Cinco de Mayo's an excellent excuse to enjoy Mexican cuisine and even try your hand at a traditional recipe you haven’t had before. If cooking isn’t your thing, go out to eat! Support your local Mexican restaurant and try something new off the menu.
Social Media Tips for Cinco de Mayo
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