Cinco De Mayo

Many believe that Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of Independence for Mexico, a sort of Fourth of July in Mexico, however it is not. Mexico actually declared its Independence on September 16, 1810 from Spain and Mexico celebrates Independence Day on September 16^th of each year. While Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday in Mexico or the United States, it is celebrated by both countries and others as well, but why?

Cinco de Mayo (or the fifth of May in English) is a celebration of Mexican heritage that commemorates its initial victory over French forces on May 5, 1862 at the Battle of Puebla. Mexico than went on to be invaded and occupied by the French however, who placed Maximilian I on the throne. Five years later the French were defeated and Maximilian I was executed by President Benito Juarez.

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is not widely celebrated. The state of Puebla is the main focus of celebration in Mexico while many others do not view it as important as El 16 de Septiembre (Mexico's Independence Day) so they simply do not celebrate it. The United States in particular has taken on a different view however, and Cinco de Mayo has become a widely recognized and celebrated holiday.

The United States celebrates Cinco de Mayo every year with parades, festivals, food, music, and dancing. While more popular in states that border Mexico, and in cities that have a large Mexican population, many other states and cities take the time to celebrate and honor Mexican heritage and its blend with the American life. During the week leading up to Cinco de Mayo, and on May 5^th itself, you can enjoy festive Mexican music, taste customary Mexican dishes, watch traditional Mexican dances, and learn a lot about Mexican culture and customs. Many schools even hold Cinco de Mayo events and spend time learning about the significance of the date, its history, and Mexican culture.

Although Cinco de Mayo has become a highly commercialized event with business trying to capitalize on the celebration by offering special Mexican dishes, events, and drinks, you shouldn't forget the importance of the celebration itself. Much like St. Patrick's Day where we celebrate Irish heritage, we should celebrate Mexican ancestry and honor our neighbor's plight for freedom. Mexican heritage after all has become part of the American Life for many Americans. Just because your roots are not of Mexican lineage doesn't mean you cannot take time to respect and celebrate a culture that is truly beautiful and overflowing with history.

If you would like to take part in Cinco de Mayo celebrations in your neighborhood the newspaper is a good place to start. Usually you can find local events that are being held and advertisements for business that are celebrating as well. You can also ask your local school district and municipal office if they are planning any festivities so that you can take part. Searching on the internet for Cinco de Mayo and your local city should also yield some results if any are taking place near you. If you cannot find any local festivities you could always host your own party. In the end, just remember that no matter how you decide to celebrate, the reason for the celebration is what is most important.