Cinco de Mayo events near me: activities in California, Los Angeles, and more

Cinco de Mayo has grown into a widely recognized cultural event in the United States, especially in border states like Texas and California. Typical celebrations include enjoying traditional Mexican dishes, listening to regional Mexican music, and wearing traditional dresses and hats.

Although Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when the Mexican army defeated French forces, it is actually celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico. Here are some of the events taking place across California.

Cinco de Mayo events in California

California is one of the states with the largest number of Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Some organizers held events over the previous weekend, while others are scheduled for May 5 or later in the week.

Here are the events happening on Tuesday, May 5:

• Mariachi Plaza, 1831 1st St, Los Angeles. From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Cinco de Mayo Long Beach, 2nd & PCH, behind Trader Joe’s. From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in the Gaslamp Quarter, Downtown San Diego. From 6:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
• Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration in Avalon, Santa Catalina Island, California. From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at 217 Metropole Ave, Avalon

Other Cinco de Mayo celebrations

Additional events will take place later in the week in other parts of the state:

• May 7: Monterey Park Cinco de Mayo at Barnes Park, 350 S. McPerrin Ave. From 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• May 9: Cito de Mayo Street Festival, between 4th and Birch Street, Downtown Santa Ana. From 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Cinco de Mayo potluck: Best food ideas in the U.S.

No traditional Mexican-themed party in the United States is complete without guacamole. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make. All you need are avocados, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and serrano peppers if you want some heat.

If you prefer something simpler, you can go with classic street-style corn. Just boil corn on the cob, then top it with mayonnaise, grated cheese, and chili powder.

Your party should also include a dish made with tortillas. Tacos, tostadas, enchiladas, or chilaquiles are all great options. Don’t forget drinks and dessert. A good margarita, refreshing fruit drinks, and a tasty flan or tres leches cake will round out the menu.

Why is Cinco de Mayo celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico?

One reason Cinco de Mayo has become such an important celebration is that some Americans mistakenly believe it marks Mexico’s Independence Day. In reality, May 5 is observed quietly in Mexico.

According to History, Mexican Americans used the victory at the Battle of Puebla as inspiration for the Union’s cause during the Civil War. This connection led to celebrations featuring parades, dances, and banquets.

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