Cinco De Mayo

Cinco De Mayo History

Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of the Mexican Army's victory over France during the French and Mexican War of 1862. The French army marched toward Mexico with the hopes of establishing a second Mexican empire. In the city of Puebla, Mexican general Ignacio Zaragoza was able to successfully beat the French army. Cinco de Mayo commemorates this victory.

Cinco de Mayo is mostly celebrated in the United States as a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. It was first celebrated in 1863 in California and eventually grew in popularity in the 20th century as marketers sought to capitalize off the day. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is considered a ceremonial holiday with marches or military parades. The city of Puebla usually holds a festival as well. This day is celebrated annually on the 5th of May.

Facts about Cinco De Mayo

• The Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla is significant as it bolstered the resistance movement and staved off French control of Mexico for another five years. It became a symbol of resistance for Mexicans and a source of pride.
• According to USA Facts, in 2021, Mexican Americans made up about 61% (37.2 million) of all Hispanics in the US.
• Mexico is currently the third largest trade partner with the United States. In 2021, Mexico exported $386 billion worth of goods and services to the United States.
• According to TheHispanicStar, in 2022, the states with the highest concentration of Hispanics are:
  1) California
  2) Texas
  3) Florida
  4) New York
  5) Illinois
• Cinco de Mayo has come to represent a celebration of the contributions that Mexican Americans and all Hispanics have made to America. - Joe Baca, California Congressman

In the News and Trending in the US for Cinco De Mayo

Top things to do in the US for Cinco De Mayo

• Go eat or have drinks at a Mexican restaurant.
• Make Margaritas with Mexican tequila.
• Attend a Cinco de Mayo Festival. Popular such festivals can be found in San Antonio, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston.
• Attend a Parade.
• Make a piñata with your friends. Piñatas usually contain sweets or treats that fall out once it has been smashed open.