Cinco de Mayo in Mexico

Cinco de Mayo is another famous holiday in Mexico, with celebrations unique from anywhere else. As opposed to what a lot of people think, Cinco de Mayo is not the Independence Day of Mexico.

As the name implies, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated every 5th of May. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

The Battle of Puebla began during the French invasion of Mexico. The French army, on their way to Mexico City, was stopped in their tracks in Puebla, specifically in Loreto and Guadalupe. General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin led the over 4,000 me of Puebla in a battle with a French army composed of more than 6,000 armed soldiers. Amazingly, the Mexicans won over the French.

When the news of the defeat reached Napoleon, he sent more troops, which amounted to almost 30,000 people. The troops, having learnt their lesson, went around Puebla and directly to Mexico City. Although the Battle of Puebla did not prevent the French army from invading Mexico, it was still a significant victory for Puebla and for Mexico.

Cinco de Mayo nowadays is celebrated mostly in Puebla, although other areas in Mexico also celebrate it in a less enthusiastic manner. In Puebla, the battle is typically reenacted, where the men act as the soldiers and the women act as soldaderos, who took care of the soldiers during the time of war.

The festivities of Cinco de Mayo include serving food, such as mole and poblano. Mariachi bands fill the air with Mexican music. At night, fireworks are usually displayed.

The president of Mexico usually gives a speech, which is aired on television all throughout the country.

The spirited celebration of Cinco de Mayo in the state of Puebla is an experience you surely won’t forget. If you intend to go to Puebla for the celebrations, it is best to book early to avoid any hassle.