Monday, May 5, 2025 Haven Riviera Resort

Even if you don't speak Spanish, you probably know what Cinco de Mayo means in English ... May 5.

But while the name of this Mexican-American holiday is understandably associated with margaritas, enchiladas, and yes, plenty of muchachos y muchachas mingling, we should all be conscious of the fact that the day's significance goes deeper than being an excuse for a fun night out on the town.

Dancing to traditional Mexican mariachi music and doing tequila shots without choking takes practice, and understanding Cinco de Mayo's history takes learning a few Cinco de Mayo fun facts. So here are some facts about Cinco de Mayo history.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico's victory at the Battle of Puebla.

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican war. General Ignacio Zaragoza led the Mexican army to defeat invading French troops.

On May 5, 1862, "the army of the liberal government headed by Benito Juárez" won the battle against "the French forces sent by Napoleon III to establish a French satellite state in Mexico.

Mole Poblano is the official dish.

Tacos and margaritas are great, but they are not the official dish of the holiday. It is actually mole poblano! For those who don't know this authentic Mexican dish, it is a dark brown sauce made with Mexican chocolate and a ton of spices. The dish's origins come from the Mexican city of Puebla where the victory occurred.

Kids in Mexico get the day off of school.

Though Cinco de Mayo isn't a commercial or a federal holiday in Mexico, some kids do get the day off from school.

Los Angeles holds the biggest celebration in the world.

The city of Los Angeles hosts the largest celebration of the holiday, which didn't even originate in the States. The celebration spreads from Olvera Street to Broadway. It's even bigger than the celebration in the city of Puebla where the holiday comes from. Houston and Chicago are not far behind either.

Cinco de Mayo decorations are traditionally done in red, white and green.

This color palette is the same as the colors of the Mexican flag.

Haven Riviera is planning a great celebration for this big event in Mexico!!

COCO BONGO

COCO BONGO