Bienvenido A Cinco De Mayo!

Somehow the clocks have sprung forward, the days are drawing out, summer has started to show its face (sort of) and we’re already in May! As we say goodbye to the cold yet cosy, long evenings of winter, we can glimpse warmer weather on the horizon and what better way to enjoy it than a fiesta.

Today is Cinco De Mayo! This festival literally means “5th of May” and it’s an important opportunity for Mexican people to celebrate their heritage.

Where does Cinco de Mayo come from?

It’s 5th May 1862. After several different wars, Mexico’s financial situation is not looking good, so the President, Benito Juárez, decides to pause their repayments of foreign debt for a few years. He is able to negotiate with Britain and Spain, but France is not so easily won over. President Napoleon III (not that Napoleon) seizes the opportunity and sends a well-armed fleet of soldiers in an attempt to take over the country. Twice the size of the Mexican forces in Puebla, the odds are in their favour but they don’t count on the might of patriotic soldiers who are prepared to risk their lives to protect their country. In less than a day, a small, under-prepared army defeats the French in the famed Battle of Puebla and saves Mexico from invasion. It’s a David and Goliath victory!

Unfortunately it doesn’t last; a while later France tries again, and this time they succeed in capturing Puebla. But the bravery shown during the battle boosted the morale of the Mexican people, and it is now celebrated every year as a demonstration of national pride. 

How is it celebrated?

In the state of Puebla itself, the community gathers together every year for a spectacular parade. School bands serenade onlookers, dancers disappear into a brilliant wave of colourful skirts, the military inspire awe marching in impossibly straight lines. There are intricate floats, people in costumes and different types of music. United by a shared history, everyone takes part whether they are young or old, human or horse. It’s an explosion of passion and joy. 

Under the fluttering of the national flag, hundreds of people get involved in a huge re-enactment. On the original battleground, they dress up as Mexican and French soldiers and relive the events of that historic day. It’s a time to revel in their strength, honour and pride. 

Outside of Puebla, Cinco de Mayo is not celebrated very widely in Mexico – in fact, it’s not even a national holiday. The country that really enjoys this festival is actually the United States. Over time, it was adopted by Mexican-Americans as a day to celebrate their heritage, and its fame grew as American companies commercialised the occasion to sell more beers (cervezas, if you will). In some ways, it has led to misinformation and stereotypes – creating a thorn in the rose. The day often centres around popular Mexican cuisine like tacos, quesadillas and guacamole, and it has a controversial reputation as one of the top five drinking holidays in the country. Nevertheless, it is a chance to explore Mexican culture and relish the rich history of the country. There are also parades and parties to mark the occasion with the largest taking place in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and New York.

What about Independence Day?

A popular misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day. That is completely different and takes place on 16th September. It recognises one of the most famous figures of the War of Independence against Spain: Miguel Hidalgo, a priest attributed with kick-starting the war and igniting the fire of revolution among the Mexican people. It’s celebrated across the country with fireworks, parties, food and music.

How do I get involved?

If you’re feeling inspired to take part in this festival, you could attend a themed evening at your local Mexican restaurant. Maybe you’d prefer to support a Mexican-owned business. Or perhaps you could meet up with friends to share the story of the Battle of Puebla and learn more about the culture together. Have fun, enjoy the day and help respect this important part of history. 

Here’s a few Spanish phrases that might come in handy when you’re celebrating…

la batalla: the battle (pronounced ba-tay-ya)

la bandera: the flag (ban-dare-a)

una fiesta: a party

el baile: dancing (bye-ley)

la comida es estupendo: the food is amazing

muchas gracias: thank you very much

and most importantly…

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo! : Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Do you celebrate Cinco De Mayo? Let us know over on our socials at @NCS!