Before it became a symbol of tacos, tequila, and party culture, Cinco de Mayo marked a pivotal moment in Mexican history — the victory of the Mexican army over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
Each year on May 5, people in both the United States and parts of Mexico, especially the city of Puebla, celebrate this moment of resilience and national pride. The holiday commemorates the day when an outnumbered Mexican force held off 6,000 troops sent by French Emperor Napoleon III to overthrow the government of President Benito Juárez and install a French-controlled regime.
Despite the odds, the Mexican army secured a critical win by evening, prompting Juárez to declare May 5 a national holiday. 
Not Mexico’s Independence Day
A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day—it’s not. That holiday is Día de la Independencia, celebrated on September 16, which commemorates Mexico’s 1810 revolt against Spanish rule.
The confusion may stem from the easier pronunciation and marketing appeal of “Cinco de Mayo” compared to “Dieciséis de Septiembre.” Additionally, a lack of education in U.S. schools about Chicanx and Latino history has contributed to the misunderstanding.
From Historic Battle to Party Day in the U.S.
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more widely in the United States than in Mexico, especially since the 1980s, when alcohol brands and restaurants began to commercialize the day with themed promotions and events. It has since gained nicknames like “Cinco de Drinko” and “Corona Day.”
Historians like Mario García from UC Santa Barbara encourage Americans to enjoy the festivities but also remember the deeper historical significance. “It’s OK for people to go out and have a good time,” García says, “but we should go beyond partying and drinking.”
Interestingly, the victory at Puebla also had international consequences, helping prevent the French from aiding the Confederacy during the U.S. Civil War, according to History.com.
How Cinco de Mayo Is Celebrated in the U.S.
Across the U.S., Cinco de Mayo is marked by festivals, parades, music, food, and cultural displays. Here are a few examples from 2025:
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San Diego, CA: Old Town hosted festivities on May 3–4, with live music, folkloric dancing, and food specials.
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Denver, CO: The city’s Civic Center Park featured parades, food vendors, and even chihuahua races on May 3–4.
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St. Paul, MN: One of the state’s largest Latino events included a car show, wrestling, and performances on May 3.
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San Antonio, TX: The city wrapped up its 10-day Fiesta San Antonio on May 4 with art, culture, and history-centered events.
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Los Angeles, CA: The massive Fiesta Broadway spanned four downtown blocks and took place on April 27.
