5. No! It’s not an international holiday or even a holiday celebrated across Latin America. Cinco de Mayo, while it has been adopted as a cause for celebration and as good a reason as any to enjoy a couple of margaritas, is actually a Mexican holiday.
4. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. That’s right! Por eso you’ll hear so many gritos in bars and cantinas near you.
3. In Many parts of Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is not even observed as a holiday. In fact, in places like Puebla, where it is celebrated as a regional holiday, Cinco de Mayo is actually known as El Día de la Batalla de Puebla / The Day of the Battle of Puebla, which basically commemorates the Battle of Puebla of May 5, 1862 when Mexico defeated French forces who were trying to invade.
2. Cinco de Mayo, contrary to popular belief, is not a celebration of Mexico’s Independence. That important national holiday is actually celebrated every year on September 16.
1. Finally, yes… Cinco de Mayo is certainly a great opportunity to celebrate not only Mexicans, but all Latinos who are proud of their heritage and culture. Just make sure you understand what Cinco de Mayo is actually commemorating.
¡Ahora sí! Happy Cinco de Mayo! ¡¡AJUUAA!!