Cinco De Mayo In The United States

Every year the Cinco de Mayo celebrations grow in the United States. Yet in Mexico, where it began, it is only a minor holiday. The Mexican victory over the French in 1862 is mainly commemorated in Puebla, Mexico, where the battle actually took place. In the United States, on the other hand, this holiday is the reason for partying from one shore to the other.

According to the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture at UCLA, Cinco de Mayo has been commemorated in California in some form or other since the 1860s. This is not surprising since there has always been a large proportion of Latinos in California. They chose to honor this triumph of ingenuity over might, even though it has become a minor holiday in their native land.

Today, most Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the United States honor Mexican culture instead of that battle from 1862. Like other cultural holidays celebrated in the US like Chinese New Year, St. Patrick’s Day and Oktoberfest, they let us indulge in one of the many cultures that have contributed to our own.

This holiday lets us take the time to celebrate the rich culture of Mexico, such as the colorful historical figures, the symbols that are important to our neighbors to the south and of course, the delicious food. Many schools now use this time of year to learn about Mexican history, arts and dancing. Mexico has made a big impact on our own culture and this gives us an opportunity to appreciate it.

Today, in many communities around the United States, the 5th of May is greeted with colorful banners, dancing and lively music. Americans of all ethnic groups use this holiday to enjoy Mexican culture and have parties. Some communities hold large outdoor celebrations with parades, live bands, dancing, and food. Participants may dress up in colorful ruffled dresses and woven Mexican ponchos.

In some places, the celebrations are limited mostly to Mexican restaurants and various bars around town. Adults flock to these celebrations to eat great food and enjoy drinks like margaritas, tequila, and Mexican beer. Live music may be provided at these celebrations for dancing and to make a festive atmosphere.

Cinco de Mayo parties are also held in private homes. Hosts decorate with red, white, and green streamers, hang banners, or decorate with traditional symbols of Mexico. They cook delicious food and invite all of their friends and family to come over.

Cinco de Mayo history may be a bit fuzzy to most Americans, but they are more than happy to celebrate all the wondrous things Mexico has given to our country. Their culture has made a strong impact on the identity of the United States, and deserves to be celebrated in style.

If you have not celebrated this fun and tasty holiday, please go and check out party in your community. Drop by your nearest Mexican cantina for great meal. Plan a picnic with the kids. With all the great food and culture, there are many ways to rejoice in all things Mexican.

Mexican food might conjure up images of hot crunchy tacos, richly flavorful enchiladas, crunchy nachos with melted cheese and jalapeo slices on top or even cleverly spiced Mexican casseroles. Traditional Mexican food is both healthy and easy to make, even for beginner cooks, so why not try out a Mexican dish?