Many would tell you the fifth of May is Mexican Independence Day, but they would be mistaken. Cinco de Mayo is actually a holiday celebrated in places with Mexican influence for the day that Mexico commemorates the Mexican military victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla.  This holiday once celebrated only in Mexico is now seen in Texas and California, both heavily influenced by Mexico.

In the state of Puebla the holiday is celebrated with military parades, recreations of the battle and fiestas. At these fiestas, mariachi music will be heard along with women dressed in traditional colorful dress. Entertainment will always be around and the casa will be decorated brightly and colorfully. Foods such as burritos, flan and tacos will be served. Although it is not recognized as a federal holiday it is a day full of Mexican pride.

In the United States Cinco de Mayo is a day to learn of Mexican heritage and culture. The day is celebrated with parades, Mexican mariachi bands, Mexican folk dancing, concerts and traditional foods.  Through the years this Mexican holiday is becoming better known and seen more widely throughout the United States, it is being put on people’s holiday calendars more each year. Although known widely throughout the states it was not introduced here until the 1960s and 1970s when Chicano activists identified themselves with the Mexican Indian and mestizo soldiers’ victory over the French army during the Battle of Puebla. 

Whether celebrating in Mexico or in the United States this holiday is one to recognize, learn about and celebrate the triumph of the Mexican army over the French army and a day to express Mexican pride.