5 Interesting Facts about Cinco de Mayo
A common misconception about Cinco de Mayo is that it celebrates Mexico’s Independence. However, the day actually commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1962.
Although the day is not considered an official national holiday in Mexico, it is very widely celebrated in the United States, particularly in cities where large proportions of the population have a Mexican background.
Over the years, the holiday has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture and is often marked across the USA with parades, parties, and traditional food and drinks.
Celebrations in Mexico are on a smaller scale compared to the US and typically focus on the military win. In Puebla, the birthplace of the holiday, a re-enactment of the original battle takes place, followed by a colourful parade with costumes, dancing, and fireworks.
The largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the world actually takes place in Los Angeles, California. Fiesta Broadway attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year who take to the streets of LA to enjoy traditional music, colourful decorations, vibrant costumes, games, and food. The event, which has been held for over three decades, usually occurs on the last Sunday of April.