If you've ever found yourself craving tacos and margaritas in early May, you're not alone—and there's a festive reason for that! Cinco de Mayo is a day filled with vibrant colors, rich culture, and plenty of delicious Mexican food. But do you know what the May holiday actually celebrates, or when it is, exactly? And, even if you do know enough Spanish to decipher the date, why the holiday falls when it does?
Whether you're planning a fun fiesta, teaching the kids about world traditions, or just curious about the history behind the festivities, you'll want to keep on reading for the full scoop on the Mexican celebration! Ahead, you'll find everything there is to know about Cinco de Mayo, including when Cinco de Mayo is, what it is, and how it's celebrated on both sides of the border.
When Is Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated annually on May 5, which makes it pretty easy to remember—since cinco de mayo literally means "fifth of May" in Spanish! This year, it falls on a Monday. Talk about a lively start to the week! So, go ahead and mark your calendar: May 5 is the day to break out the chips, salsa, and celebration.
What Is Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico's Independence Day, which is actually in September. In reality, Cinco de Mayo marks the Battle of Puebla, when the Mexican army achieved an unlikely victory over French forces in 1862. At the time, Mexico was facing a financial crisis after years of war, and Mexican President Benito Juárez had suspended payments on foreign debts. In response, Emperor Napoleon III of France sent troops to Mexico, aiming to establish a French-controlled monarchy in the Americas.
On May 5, 1862, the French army, considered one of the most powerful military forces in the world at the time, advanced on the small town of Puebla. Outnumbered and outgunned, the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, mounted a fierce defense. Against all odds, they defeated the French forces in a single day, marking a powerful and symbolic victory for the Mexican people.
Although the French would go on to occupy Mexico for a few more years, the Battle of Puebla became a rallying cry for resistance and a proud moment of unity and resilience. It's especially meaningful as a celebration of Mexican strength, courage, and national identity.
These days, in both Mexico and the United States, May 5 is all about celebrating Mexican culture, heritage, and pride. In fact, the holiday has taken on a festive life of its own in the U.S., especially in states with larger Mexican-American populations, like California, Texas, and Colorado.
Is Cinco de Mayo a Federal Holiday?
Despite what all the festivities might suggest, Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday in the United States. That means government offices, banks, post offices, and schools typically stay open, and it's business as usual for most people. So while you probably won't get the day off work, you can still join in on the fun with a festive dinner, colorful decorations, and maybe even a dedicated playlist to set the mood!
How Is Cinco de Mayo Celebrated?
For most Americans, Cinco de Mayo is a day dedicated to sipping margaritas under the sun. But in Mexico (and certain cities in the U.S.), the celebrations go far beyond sombreros and shaken cocktails! Cinco de Mayo is marked by lively festivals full of music, dancing, parades, and traditional Mexican food. Think mariachi bands, folklórico dancers in colorful dresses, and street fairs with local vendors offering handmade crafts and snacks.
On a smaller scale, families and friends gather for backyard parties, where classic dishes—like enchiladas and guacamole—and refreshing drinks—like horchata and margaritas—are served. Cinco de Mayo is also a great opportunity to support local Mexican businesses, restaurants, and shops.
In Mexico, the holiday is celebrated more modestly, primarily in the state of Puebla, where the battle actually took place. There, you'll find military parades, reenactments of the Battle of Puebla, and cultural programs honoring the significance of the day.
Nitya Rao is the editorial assistant at The Pioneer Woman, covering stories ranging from food, fashion, beauty, lifestyle, news, and more.
