Let’s Celebrate! All about Cinco de Mayo!
Today is May 5th and that means a celebration of all things Mexico! Before you head out to the streets to start your festivities, why not check out our handy guide to some surprising things about Cinco de Mayo!
It’s not Mexican Independence Day!
Despite common belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexcian Independence day, which actually falls on September 16. This holiday celebrates the Mexcian victory over France in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The battle lasted only one day, and 6000 French troops were sent against only 2000 Mexican troops. By a sheer determination, Mexico was victorious and France withdrew with the loss of nearly 500 French soldiers, Mexico lost fewer than 100.
It’s Not Celebrated in Mexico
In the town of Puebla, and a couple of other Mexican towns where the victory of the Battle of Puebla is commemorated. Otherwise, Cinco de Mayo is just a normal day in Mexico without federal holiday status. The holiday is celebrated heavily in Mexican-American areas of the United States, as a celebration of Mexican culture, strength and resistance. Today many food and drinks companies take advantage of the celebration, with tequila, beer and guacamole seeing huge sales during this time.
Los Angeles Hosts the Biggest Celebration in the World
Major streets are closed for Cinco de Mayo and filled with people celebrating Mexican heritage with traditional food, dancing, music, crafts and a whole lot of tequila! Since the 1990’s “Fiesta Broadway” leads the way for the celebrations, even beating the town of Puebla! Another cool celebration is in the town of Chandler, Arizona, where Chihuahua races are the highlight of the day.
Mole Poblano is the Dish of Cinco de Mayo
Although the day is the biggest day of the year for avocados for tons of delicious guacamole, Mole Poblano is the official dish of the day! This dark brown spicy sauce is served over meat, typically turkey leg. The origin of mole is claimed to be Puebla and Oaxaca, regardless of the true origin, both states offer the best known and tastiest types of mole! Mole Poblano is native to the state of Puebla.
One of the Biggest Drinking Days of the Year
Tequila, margaritas, and beer are consumed in such quantities that the day firmly earns its place as a legendary drinking day in America! Beer sales on this day even surpassed Superbowl Sunday during one promotion by Corona Beer. Despite celebrations being a little more subdued this year due to the pandemic, many celebrations will still be made at home with homemade drinks and Mexican cusine!
How are you celebrating Cinco de Mayo this year? Let us know in our Facebook Group!