Parades, food, music, and dancing. These activities are performed by people with a Mexican heritage, on a holiday they call Cinco de Mayo. This holiday is celebrated on May 5 in different parts of Mexico and the United States. It was created in honor of the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. The Battle of Puebla, which is commemorated every Cinco de Mayo, lasted from daybreak to early evening. The French had lost 500 soldiers while Mexico had only lost 100. France withdrew, allowing Mexico’s win over General Ignacio Zaragoza and their freedom.

Perhaps because it celebrates a military event, Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day in the United States. However, this holiday originated almost fifty years after Mexico’s Independence Day. The holiday gained popularity in the United States in the early 1960s. It is not widely celebrated in Mexico anymore, and festivities mainly take place in the city of Puebla and among Mexican-Americans north of the border.

“I think Cinco de Mayo is a great way for people to show their culture and tradition,” senior Dora Goldstein said.

Like many holidays, Cinco de Mayo has special foods eaten during the celebration. Common foods found during Cinco de Mayo include tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole. In normal years, large festivals are also held in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston. This is an exciting holiday for people of the Mexican heritage, as well as an interesting cultural tradition.

“I think Cinco de Mayo is so unique, and I love to see how everyone celebrates,” senior Marcela Perches said,

Given the current situation, it is wise to stay home and away from crowds this Cinco de Mayo. But don’t worry: technology means that friends and family members are just a video call away!