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Cinco De Mayo Recipes

Every year on May 5th, we celebrate Cinco De Mayo. This annual celebration commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, so it is also sometimes referred to as the Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla. In the State of Puebla, the day is observed with parades, speeches, and battle reenactments. In America, it is observed with the consumption of the food and drink of Mexican origin. Tacos are usually involved.

Some people may confuse Cinco De Mayo with Mexican Independence Day, which actually falls on September 16, and dates back to 1810.

Cinco De Mayo will be celebrated on Monday, May 5, 2025.

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Cinco De Mayo

Brief History Of Cinco De Mayo Celebrations

Cinco De Mayo originated in Mexico in 1862. Despite the attention that it seems to get, it is not a Federal holiday in Mexico. It is believed that the first celebrations in America were actually political rallies led by Mexican-Americans living in California as a way to support the war efforts in Mexico.

The observance of Cinco De Mayo gained a bit of popularity after President Roosevelt’s Good Neighbor Policy, which was intended to improve relations between America and Mexico. It gained attention again as ethnic studies professors used the observance as a way to create a bridge between Mexican and American cultures.

The observance again gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s thanks to beer companies like Corona used the day of celebration as a marketing tool to increase product sales.

How To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

The obvious answer to this is to eat Mexican food. And we approve of that message. But before we get to all the fantastic food options, here are a few other ways to celebrate Cinco De Mayo.

  • Visit a museum dedicated to or with exhibits that highlight Hispanic culture or artists.
  • Learn to paint or craft with techniques and characteristics common to Hispanic/Latin art.
  • Attend a local parade or festival celebrating the occasion.
  • Decorate festively with traditional décor.
  • Eat the food.

Best Food For Celebrating Cinco De Mayo

Mexican food is best enjoyed literally any day of the year. But on May 5th, you can break out all your favorite recipes and the ones that you save for special occasions. We’ve got a list of some of our favorite Mexican-inspired recipes for you to make for your Cinco De Mayo celebration. And if you want tacos, check out our list of 22 Taco Recipes!

The Best Cinco De Mayo Recipes

Try some of these delicious Mexican-style recipes for your Cinco De Mayo Celebration.

See More Delicious Food Holidays and Observances

Heidi Deal
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