Cinco de Mayo is a celebration that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, although it’s often mistakenly thought of as Mexican Independence Day – that actually falls on September 16th.

Cinco de Mayo has become more of a cultural celebration, especially in the United States, where it’s marked with parades, parties, traditional food, music, and dancing. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy Mexican culture and cuisine!

1. Host a Mexican-themed party: Transform your home into a Mexican fiesta by decorating with vibrant colors, such as red, green, and white, which are reminiscent of the Mexican flag. Hang papel picado (colorful paper banners) around your space, and place sombreros, maracas, and piñatas as fun decorations. Set up a taco bar with various fillings like seasoned beef, chicken, or grilled vegetables, along with all the fixings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. Don’t forget to serve classic Mexican drinks like margaritas, palomas, or micheladas to keep the festivities going.
2. Attend a Mexican restaurant or bar: Check out Mexican restaurants or bars in your area that are hosting special Cinco de Mayo events. Many establishments offer themed menus featuring authentic Mexican dishes and drinks. Enjoy live music or performances showcasing Mexican culture while savoring delicious food and drinks with friends or family.
3. Cook a Mexican feast at home: Turn your kitchen into a Mexican cocina and whip up a feast of traditional Mexican dishes. Start with appetizers like homemade tortilla chips and salsa, followed by main courses such as chicken enchiladas, beef fajitas, or shrimp tacos. For dessert, indulge in churros with chocolate sauce or tres leches cake. Don’t forget to pair your meal with refreshing beverages like horchata or Mexican sodas.
4. Learn about Mexican culture: Take some time to delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of Mexico. Watch documentaries or read books about Mexican history, art, and traditions. Explore Mexican music genres like mariachi, ranchera, or cumbia, and learn about famous Mexican artists, writers, and musicians. You can also watch Mexican films or documentaries to gain a deeper understanding of Mexican society and customs.
5. Join a cultural event or workshop: Look for local cultural events or workshops that celebrate Mexican culture around Cinco de Mayo. Attend dance classes to learn traditional Mexican dances like salsa, bachata, or folklorico. Join cooking demonstrations to master the art of making authentic Mexican dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs. Explore art exhibits featuring Mexican artists or attend cultural festivals that showcase Mexican music, dance, and cuisine.
6. Support Mexican businesses: Show your support for Mexican businesses in your community by shopping at Mexican-owned stores, markets, or online shops. Stock up on authentic Mexican ingredients like dried chilies, corn tortillas, and spices to recreate traditional Mexican recipes at home. Purchase handmade crafts, textiles, or pottery produced by Mexican artisans to add a touch of Mexican flair to your home decor.

By embracing Mexican culture and traditions, you can create a memorable Cinco de Mayo celebration in the UK that honors the spirit of this festive holiday. ¡Viva México!