Cinco De Mayo Events in Phoenix, Arizona

Do you live in the Phoenix area? Are you looking for a way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Well, first you need to know what this celebration is about!

Many people believe that Cinco de Mayo (5^th of May), is Mexico's Independence Day. I fell into that group until I discovered the truth! Mexico's Independence Day is September 16^th; Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is observed as a regional holiday that includes the state of Puebla where the battle took place. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated widely by Mexican-Americans and Americans alike.

In the Phoenix, Arizona area there will be many Cinco de Mayo events taking place and I am sure you will find one or more activities to help you celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

If you are looking for a fun, come as you are, casual Cantina-Grill to hang out and drink some tasty Margaritas, why not try the Barrio Cantina & Grill north of Scottsdale in Paradise Valley? The Barrio Cantina & Grill will be serving $5 Patron Shots, cocktails, and margaritas, as well as Mexican food with a upbeat kick until 2:00 am.
Where: The Barrio Cantina & Grill, 4731 E. Cactus Rd. Phoenix, AZ. 85032

Phone: 602-606-9150

When: Sunday & Monday, May 2-3, 2010 10:00am - 2:00am

Website:http://www.barriocantina.com/

The monthly Jazz in AZ "Jazz in Concert" series is presenting Joe Garcia, percussionist, in concert at the Kerr Cultural Center in Paradise Valley. When Joe Garcia takes the stage, it's all about the music and having a good time! This band features Latin jazz and Brazilian styled music. You should expect a enjoyable musical experience by attending this concert.

Where: Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N. Scottsdale Rd., Paradise Valley, AZ., 85253

Phone:480-596-2660

When: Wednesday May 5, 2010 7:30pm

Tickets: $16.50 - $21.50

Website:http://jazzinaz.org/

An event for the whole family is the Macayo's May. This event is free and includes mariachis, ballet folklorico and a pinata bust. Why not come out and spend a fun filled day at the park!

Where: Surprise Recreation Campus, 15850 N. Bullard Ave. Surprise, AZ. 85374

Phone:623-266-4500

When: Sunday, May 9, 2010 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Website: http://www.surpriseaz.gov/

The 2010 Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival is viewed as the Southwest's largest and most significant cultural showcases for valley residents and tourists alike. The festival receives support from the City of Phoenix and the Valley's business community. Music, food and fun will be enjoyed by an estimated 200,000+ participants!

Where: Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ. 85003

When: Saturday & Sunday, May 1-2, 2010 10:00am

Website:http://www.when.com/phoenix-az/events

Cinco de Mayo at Enchanted Island Amusement Park will be presenting Spiderman from Marvel Comics from 11am - 5pm for autographs and pictures (fees apply). There will be live entertainment; including a Hispanic band and Ballet Folkloria, who will be performing in authentic costumes! Candy filled piñatas will be provided for the children to bust and grab as much candy as possible.

Where: Enchanted Island Amusement Park, 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix, AZ. 85003

Phone:602-254-1200

When: Sunday, May 2, 2010, 11:00am - 8:00pm

Website:http://www.enchantedisland.com/specialevents.php

El Pedregal hosts its fourth annual outdoor Salsa Festival showcasing more than a dozen Arizona Chefs and Restaurants including The Spotted Donkey, El Encanto, Harold's Cave Creek Corral, Dos Diablos, Tonto Bar & Grill, Scottsdale Pantry, 3 Margaritas, Rubios and more! Guests are invited to sample salsas from around the valley and listen to festive music by the female mariachi group called Mariachi Pasion and watch salsa dance performances by Tropical Vibes in the outdoor amphitheatre!

Where: El Pedregal, 34505 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ. 85262

Phone: 480-488-1072

When: Saturday, May 1, 2010 12:00pm - 3:00pm

Website:http://www.elpedregal.com

Sources:
www.about.com/phoenix
www.wikipedia.com
www.azcentral.com
www.yelp.com