Loreto, Mexico

May 5, 2016–Los Angeles, California–Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration of Mexican Independence Day. Every year on the 5th of May, people mistakenly clink their margarita glasses and toast to the wrong holiday. (Mexico’s Independence Day is actually celebrated annually on September 16th in Mexico.)

Cinco de Mayo

So what is Cinco de Mayo? What are we actually celebrating? Watch the short video below from History Channel and you will learn that Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of an event that occurred in 1862 when the French deployed war ships to try and invade Mexico to claim it after Mexico’s president declared the country was too poor to repay their foreign debts.

When the French landed on the shores of Puebla in Mexico on May 5, 1862, they were defeated by a band of Mexican troops–even though the Mexican troops were outnumbered by a reported two to one by the French. The Battle of Puebla became a symbol of the strength of Mexico and their successful victory against French Imperialism. News of the victory spread to the U.S. and served as a point of inspiration in the American Civil War–thus becoming a well celebrated holiday in the U.S.

Cinco de Mayo 2016

If you’re not lucky enough to be enjoying the beauty that is the coast of Mexico in Loreto, Mexico (pictured above) today, you can look for Cinco de Mayo celebrations in your home town. Celebrations often include festivals, parades, music and great food.

Staying home?
You can dress up in the green, white and red colors, enjoy mariachi music, dance, make your favorite guacamole recipe and homemade corn tortilla chips,

Looking for ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Cinco de Mayo Events in Los Angeles include:
Fiesta Broadway Cinco de Mayo Street Fair Los Angeles

Check out Cinco de Mayo at Olvera Street
845 N. Alameda Street
Los Angeles, CA. 90012
www.elpueblo.lacity.org

Cinco de Mayo Party in Los Angeles

REVOLUTION | Cinco De Mayo in Los Angeles

Please stay safe on the roads today! 1.800.NoCuffs is the number we hope you never need but you should always have on hand.