Cinco de Mayo: Join the Celebration (and the printables!)

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Whether you’re the mom who goes all in on holidays and celebrations several days a month or you’re more like me and like to have fun with your kids but never seem to hit that Insta-worthy event, Cinco de Mayo can be fun to celebrate as a family.

I grew up with many friends who would enjoy it as a family and invite me, and I have fond memories of lots of laughter, bright colors, and delicious recipes.

And now it’s time to create those memories with my kids, right alongside an appreciation for the day itself that goes beyond chips and salsa. Why? Simple:

Understanding cultures and respecting and appreciating the differences as well as similarities is important when you want to raise kids who are citizens of the world.

What is Cinco de Mayo and why do people celebrate it?

Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, is often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day. However, this is a day that commemorates their victory in the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

On the morning of May 5^th, the French army attacked the Mexican city of Heróica Puebla de Zaragoza with plans to bring them under French rule. The French troops, consisting of 6,000, outnumbered the Mexican army of 2,000.

Even with their lack of supplies and weapons in poor condition, General Ignacio Zaragoza led the Mexican soldiers to victory. They bravely defended their city and sent the French fleeing by sundown.

Although the victory was a significant event in Mexican history, Cinco de Mayo isn’t considered a national holiday in Mexico. In fact, it’s typically only celebrated in certain areas across the south of Mexico.

What happens on Cinco de Mayo?

In Puebla, Cinco de Mayo is recognized for an entire month. The celebrations begin a month in advance, with the main festivities taking place at the actual Battle of Cinco de Mayo location. Events may include:

• traditional dance known as baile folklorico
• parades
• reenactments of the victory
• mariachi bands
• food and drink

Other traditional dances include Jarabe Tapatio, or the Mexican hat dance, and the Concheros, with indigenous instruments and dance steps. The Son Jarocho, is a Mexican folk-style music usually accompanied by the jarana jarocha, a small guitar-like instrument.

What do people wear for the festivities?

While there isn’t an official costume for the day, people of all ages come together at the Hill of Loreto dressed for the occasion. Vibrant, flowing dresses and sleek black pant suits with sombreros represent their Mexican culture.

With origins from the 17th century, the distinct clothing style of legendary migrant, Catarina de San Juan, became an iconic symbol of Mexican culture. The China Poblana, or Puebla Dress, is still the most commonly worn Cinco de Mayo dress. The fabrics boast intricate embroidered details and flamboyant fabrics with Mexican motifs and accents, including:

• colorful, geometric shapes
• flowers
• animals
• ruffles
• ribbons
• lace

What foods are traditionally eaten?

Mole Poblano, pronounced mo-lay, is the most commonly eaten food during Cinco de Mayo.

Originating in Puebla, the gravy-like sauce is typically served over chicken, turkey, or pork. It’s often used as a tamale filling but can also be eaten as a main dish.

Mole recipes can vary, but are traditionally made from various types of chiles, spices, pepitas, tomatoes, garlic, onion, roasted nuts, raisins, Mexican chocolate, and pieces of corn tortilla, topped with toasted sesame seeds.

Cinco de Mayo in the United States

Cinco de Mayo is a widely celebrated day in the United States in recent years.

In the 1960s, Mexican-American activists saw the holiday as an opportunity to build pride and recognition among Mexican Americans. In an effort to connect with neighboring countries, the US government’s Good Neighbor policy was implemented. “Cinco de Mayo’s purpose was to function as a bridge between these two cultures,” ethnic studies Professor Jose Alamillo shared.

Many in the United States celebrate the day with various food and drink, including margaritas, tacos, and endless guacamole. And the day wouldn’t be complete without salsa! Festivals, parades, mariachi bands, and school activities are popular across the country.

Enrich your child with the true meaning of Cinco de Mayo through books, events, and crafts celebrating Mexican American culture. And if you’re looking for homemade recipes to make with your kids to help celebrate the day, here are 10 tasty salsa recipes we recommend.

Thanks for sharing - You're awesome!