Every May friends and family gather for Cinco de Mayo celebrations filled with Mariachi music, brightly hued decorations, and plenty of chips and salsa. While many of us may be familiar with this beloved holiday's mouth-watering flavors and joyful music, what does Cinco de Mayo celebrate? Cinco de Mayo may be widely observed in the United States, but this beloved Spring occasion has deep roots in Mexican history. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16th and is considered a more significant occasion. Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May commemorates the Mexican's unlikely victory over Napoleon’s French forces at the battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In addition to being a historic win, this battle would come to symbolize Mexican national pride, patriotism, and unity. Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) appreciates the lasting cultural and social significance of Cinco de Mayo within the Hispanic community.
Read on to discover why Cinco de Mayo is celebrated.
What is Cinco De Mayo celebrating?
The famous Battle of Puebla was the result of Mexico’s outstanding debts. Back in 1861, the Mexican government had declared a temporary moratorium on the repayment of all foreign debts. As a result, English, Spanish, and French troops invaded the country. However, by April of the following year the English and Spanish troops had withdrawn. The French military forces remained in Mexico, seeing an opportunity to curb the United States expansion of power and capitalize on their preoccupation with the Civil War. Forces came to a head on May 5, 1862, when the greatly outnumbered and outgunned Mexican army championed over the French forces at Puebla. While actual estimates vary, many sources claim that General Ignacio Zaragoza’s men claimed victory against six thousand French troops with just three thousand men.
Although France would eventually take Mexico City in 1864, the fifth of May was declared a national holiday by President Juarez. This conquest ignited motivation and pride in Mexico’s resistance to foreign power. In later years Cinco de Mayo would become an emblem of Mexican unity and patriotism, representing the power of overcoming insurmountable odds. Puebla, the site of this epic battle, is now home to a museum devoted to celebrating historic events, and the actual battlefield is maintained as a park.
Why is Cinco de Mayo celebrated more in the U.S. than in Mexico?
Ever wondered if Mexico celebrates Cinco de Mayo? Many Americans may be surprised to learn that outside of Puebla, this holiday is not widely celebrated. While Cinco de Mayo was initially celebrated by US Citizens with ties to Mexico in the 1860s, it gained more popularity during the Chicano Movement. From the 1950s to the 1970s this Mexican American political and social movement used this holiday to illuminate the contributions of Mexican Americans and bring awareness to the discrimination of these communities. Chicano activists used this symbolic day to highlight the unity and pride of their people.
It was not until the 1980s, that American beer and liquor companies would capitalize on the sentiments of the day creating massive Cinco de Mayo marketing campaigns. Today, U.S. celebrations may have shifted away from battle commemorations, but many Hispanic communities have adopted Cinco de Mayo as an observance and celebration of Mexican heritage.
How does Cinco de Mayo reflects Hispanic culture in the U.S.?
Throughout the U.S., cities come alive on Cinco de Mayo, enlisting this day to honor the colorful traditions of Mexican culture through parades, parties, music, and food. Los Angeles, CA is home to the world’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration called Fiesta Broadway. Here revelers gather to enjoy lucha libre and live music and indulge in both taco and mole fiestas. Other cities such as San Antonio, Texas, and Phoenix, AZ embrace this day with street festivals, live mariachi music, and traditional folk-dance performances. No matter where you live, you can choose to partake by learning the history of this emblematic day and honoring its symbolic representation of community, resilience, and family values.
Looking for Cinco De Mayo celebration ideas?
Curious about hosting your own Cinco de Mayo fiesta or want to explore your own community offerings? Cinco de Mayo celebrations don’t need to be fancy! You can use this holiday to explore and appreciate Mexican culture through:
- Hosting a family fiesta - Enjoy traditional Mexican culinary delights such as mole poblano, tacos, and tamales. You can even try your hand at making homemade tortillas!
- Attending a community event - Reach out to Hispanic community organizations, businesses, shops, or galleries to learn about Mexican history or attend a special Cinco de Mayo event.
- Listening to traditional music - Attend a mariachi music concert, make a playlist of Banda or Norteña, or check out your local Hispanic cultural center to witness live music or dance to folklorico performances.
- Learning the history - Share with loved ones the real history behind this historical holiday through books, and movies, or celebrate with a mini-marathon of Mexican filmmakers.
Remember, if you plan on consuming alcohol as part of your Cinco de Mayo celebrations, do not drive. Plan to enlist a designated driver or utilize a rideshare service.
While beer and tequila companies may have capitalized on Cinco de Mayo to promote alcohol sales, this hallowed day represents so much more than a happy hour special. The Battle of Puebla was a historic milestone that emboldened Mexico and would come to symbolize rising from oppression. Wherever you live, Cinco de Mayo offers a beautiful opportunity to connect to Mexican culture.
Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc.(IIA) believes in the power of local connection and is proud to celebrate and serve the Hispanic community with both affordable and quality car insurance.
If you are interested in learning more about our diverse coverage options or receiving a free quote, contact IIA today at 1-855-478-3705.