Cinco de Mayo 2025: What is its significance? Here's how you celebrate the day right
When May 5 rolls around, many people in the United States will be preparing for festivities which will be replete with tacos, tequila, and colourful parades. But
Cinco de Mayo
is not just a holiday about half-priced margaritas or beers. It is a historical event of resistance, which is often overshadowed by commercialisation.
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What is Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for 'Fifth of May', is a day when people commemorate the Mexican army's victory over the French at the
Battle of Puebla
. The Mexican force of 2,000 soldiers, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated 6,000 well-armed French troops in Puebla de Los Angeles on May 5, 1862.
As per a South Bend Tribune report, even though the French eventually occupied Mexico, this victory delayed their advance. It became a symbol of defiance against imperialism.
Notably, Cinco de Mayo is not
Mexican Independence Day
. Mexico's Independence Day is observed on September 16, marking the 1810 call for revolt against Spanish rule led by priest Miguel Hidalgo.
Reportedly, there are no national celebrations of Cinco de Mayo in Mexico; it is largely observed only in Puebla with battlefield reenactments and armed forces parades.
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Why is Cinco de Mayo more popular in the US than in Mexico?
Historians explained that Mexican Americans were the first to observe the holiday in the United States in the 1860s as a symbol of determination after the Mexican-American War, according to reports. The celebration gained momentum during the
Chicano Movement
in the 1960s and 70s, with the holiday getting connected to wider cultural pride and resistance themes.
Subsequently, in the 1980s, American businesses commodified the holiday and turned it into a party which focuses on Mexican food and liquor, particularly margaritas and beer. However, this has since raised allegations of
cultural appropriation
and erasure of the holiday's origins.
Celebrations in the US
Cinco de Mayo is widely observed across the US through community events, bar crawls, live music, and cultural performances. Cities like Boston, New Bedford, and Providence reportedly host food festivals, DJ parties, and vineyard gatherings.
What do Mexicans think about this?
For many Mexicans, the holiday's importance pales in comparison to September 16. Silvia Lugo Garcia, a resident of Puebla, was quoted as saying that Cinco de Mayo is a local celebration and not a public holiday.
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Some view the celebrations in the US as excessive or inauthentic; however, others, like historian Mario Garcia believe it is acceptable to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with respect and awareness. Mario said that if people understand the true meaning of the day, they might understand how it applies to the Hispanic and Latino community today.
Is it okay to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
Yes—but be culturally sensitive. Professionals recommend celebrating events that recognise Mexican heritage without relying on stereotypes.
FAQs
1. Is Cinco de Mayo Mexico's Independence Day?
No, Mexico's Independence Day is on September 16; Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of the 1862 Mexican defeat of the French at the Battle of Puebla.
2. Why is Cinco de Mayo celebrated more in the US than in Mexico?
Mexican Americans took it up as a symbol of strength, and it was later commercialised in the US, becoming a widely observed festivity with meals, beverages, and celebrations.
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