Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration many look forward to. Avocados are at the center of the festivities as the key ingredient to rich and flavorful guacamole. Interestingly enough Cinco de Mayo is not a National Mexican Holiday. More popular in the United States that in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has become the day we celebrate Mexican-American culture.
What happened on Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican's Independence Day as many would assume. In fact, it is not even a national holiday in Mexico. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the victory of a battle that took place in Puebla in the 19th century. On May 5th, 1862, outnumbered Mexican forces led by Ignacio Zaragoza were victorious against the French 2nd Empire in the Battle of Puebla.
The day is an official holiday in the State of Puebla, where the Battle took place, and also a full holiday (no work) in the neighboring State of Veracruz.
Who celebrates Cinco de Mayo?
In Mexico, celebrations take place In Puebla, where parades and historical battle reenactments. Every year, Poblanos celebrate Mexico's victory over Napoleon III's French army with a feast that includes the famous mole poblano.
The celebration has become more popular in the United States than in Mexico. Celebrations started in California as early as 1862 and gained popularity due to marketing campaigns around beer, wine and tequila and progressively guacamole.
What to eat and drink on Cinco de Mayo?
As a starter, kick off with a delicious guacamole and Margarita. The mole Poblano is a must, and one can also indulge in elote - mexican street corn, pozole, tacos while sipping on Orchatas or Margaritas.
Cinco de Mayo is a great way to celebration Mexican culture and heritage. Check out our recipes and stock up on quintessential ingredients to make your celebration a success.