Hey there, amigos!
Have you ever wondered what Cinco de Mayo is all about, besides the abundance of tacos and margaritas?
Well, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll not only dive into the history and significance of this festive holiday but also discuss some important “what NOT to do” tips.
You see, making certain mistakes during Cinco de Mayo celebrations can be offensive to the Mexican community. So, it’s essential to know what to avoid in order to have a respectful and enjoyable time.
But not to worry – I’ll also provide you with fantastic ways to celebrate while being mindful of Mexican culture and history.
So, grab your sombrero (figuratively, of course!), and let’s embark on this journey together to ensure you have a memorable Cinco de Mayo celebration!
Understanding Cinco de Mayo
The history of Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when a smaller, ill-equipped Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the mighty French forces.
The victory was particularly impressive considering the French army, under General Charles de Lorencez, was one of the most powerful and well-trained military forces of the time.
In the years leading up to the Battle of Puebla, Mexico had been struggling financially due to the costs of the Mexican-American War and the Reform War.
As a result, President Benito Juárez declared a two-year moratorium on debt repayments to European nations, including France, Spain, and Britain.
While Spain and Britain negotiated and withdrew their forces, Napoleon III of France saw this as an opportunity to establish a French empire in Mexico.
However, the Battle of Puebla served as a turning point.
Although the French eventually captured Mexico City and installed Emperor Maximilian I, the Mexican resistance never wavered. The spirit of the Mexican people, bolstered by the Battle of Puebla, continued to fight against French occupation.
Eventually, with the support of the United States, which had just emerged from the Civil War, the French forces withdrew, and Mexico regained its independence in 1867.
It was the David-and-Goliath-style victory at the Battle of Puebla that boosted Mexican morale and helped solidify their sense of national pride.
Today, Cinco de Mayo serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Mexican people in the face of adversity.
Is Cinco de Mayo a national holiday?
Surprisingly – no, it is not.
Although Cinco de Mayo is not a national holiday in Mexico, it is celebrated with parades, reenactments, and festivities in the region of Puebla and has become a symbol of Mexican-American pride in the United States.
The holiday serves as an opportunity to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of Mexico and its people, both within Mexico and abroad.
Common misconceptions
Many people mistakenly think Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day.
Spoiler alert: it’s not!
Mexican Independence Day is actually on September 16. While Cinco de Mayo is celebrated mainly in the region of Puebla and in the United States, it’s not as widely recognized throughout the rest of Mexico.
What NOT to do on Cinco de Mayo (Don’t make these 5 mistakes)
1. Don’t wear culturally insensitive costumes
Avoid wearing costumes or accessories that stereotype or appropriate Mexican culture, such as sombreros, fake mustaches, or ponchos. These items can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and disrespect the genuine cultural significance of Cinco de Mayo.
2. Don’t trivialize the history of Cinco de Mayo
Refrain from treating Cinco de Mayo as just an excuse to party without acknowledging the historical context and significance of the holiday. Take the time to learn about the Battle of Puebla and its importance to Mexican culture, and share this knowledge with others.
3. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
While it’s common to enjoy a drink or two during celebrations, overindulging in alcohol can lead to inappropriate behavior, perpetuate negative stereotypes, and detract from the true meaning of the holiday. Celebrate responsibly and encourage others to do the same.
4. Don’t use offensive language or slurs
Be mindful of the language you use when talking about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican culture. Avoid using offensive terms or slurs that can marginalize or demean the Mexican community. Instead, focus on using respectful language that celebrates and honors the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.
5. Don’t confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexican Independence Day
As mentioned earlier, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16. Misrepresenting the holiday’s significance can contribute to the erasure of important historical events and undermine the unique meaning of each celebration. Be mindful of this distinction when discussing or celebrating Cinco de Mayo.
10 Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo and Honor Traditions
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s talk about how we can respectfully celebrate Cinco de Mayo while still having a great time. No matter where you are on the globe, you can participate in your own Cinco de Mayo festivities!
Here are 10 of the easiest (and most fun) ways to celebrate the Mexican holiday:
1. Attend a local parade or festival
Experience Mexican culture in all its vibrant glory by attending a Cinco de Mayo parade or festival near you. Enjoy live mariachi music, folkloric dancing, and mouthwatering food, all while immersed in the colorful atmosphere.
2. Host a themed party
Throw a fiesta to remember by hosting a Cinco de Mayo-themed party! Deck out your space with papel picado banners, piñatas, and sombreros. Don’t forget to include some traditional Mexican games like Lotería for an authentic touch.
3. Cook authentic Mexican cuisine
Whip up some delicious Mexican dishes to share with family and friends. From tacos and enchiladas to churros and horchata, there’s no better way to celebrate than by enjoying the flavors of Mexico.
4. Support local Mexican businesses
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by patronizing your favorite Mexican-owned businesses. Whether it’s dining at a local restaurant or shopping at a nearby mercado, your support makes a meaningful impact on the community.
5. Visit a Mexican cultural center or museum
Take a trip to a Mexican cultural center or museum to learn about the rich history and art of Mexico. Many centers offer special Cinco de Mayo events and exhibits, giving you a deeper understanding of the holiday’s significance.
6. Watch traditional Mexican films
Curl up on the couch with some classic Mexican cinema to gain insight into the country’s culture and history. From the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema to contemporary classics, these films offer a unique perspective on Mexico.
7. Learn about Mexican history and the Battle of Puebla
Deepen your understanding of Cinco de Mayo by exploring the history of Mexico and the Battle of Puebla. Check out books, documentaries, and online resources to learn more about the context and importance of this holiday. Knowledge is power, amigos!
8. Create a Cinco de Mayo-inspired playlist
Set the mood for your celebrations with a Cinco de Mayo-inspired playlist featuring Mexican artists and popular genres like mariachi, norteño, and banda. Press play and let the fiesta begin!
9. Participate in a traditional Mexican dance class
Put on your dancing shoes and join a Mexican dance class to learn popular styles like salsa, merengue, and bachata. Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll also be embracing an essential aspect of Mexican culture.
10. Volunteer or donate to organizations supporting the Mexican community
Last but not least, consider giving back by volunteering or donating to organizations that support the Mexican community. Your contributions can make a real difference in the lives of others, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Final thoughts
And there you have it, amigos—a crash course on Cinco de Mayo and some fantastic ways to join in on the fun!
So, whether you’re indulging in some tasty tacos or showing off your salsa moves, I hope you have a memorable and joyful Cinco de Mayo celebration. Just remember to celebrate responsibly and respectfully.
¡Viva México! 🇲🇽🎉
Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!