Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner! On this day, we celebrate anything and everything that is Mexican. How will you celebrate? Perhaps, you'll head down to the city parade on May 6, 2018. Or, you can choose from one of the many neighborhood parades and festivals. Any party will be sure to make you hungry! What is your favorite Mexican dish and restaurant? Share these 7 fun facts while you're waiting for your food!
It's Not Mexican Independence Day
Mexican Independence is celebrated on September 16th. That's the day (in 1810) that Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla called for Mexicans to rise against Spanish rule.
Cinco de Mayo Is All About A Military Win
Cinco de Mayo celebrates an 1862 battle that took place at the Fort of Guadalupe in the city of Puebla. General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated a contingent of French soldiers that were much better trained and equipped. The General's forces numbered about 4,000 while the French had twice that amount. The win represented a much-needed boost to morale (which was good because the Mexicans lost both Puebla and Mexico City the next month.)
What Was France Doing In Mexico Anyway?
Napoleon III was trying to expand his empire in Mexico, then access the U.S. Once in the United States, he hoped to help the Confederate Army. President Lincoln although sympathetic to the Mexican cause, was busy with the Civil War at this time. However, once the war ended, the U.S. forced France to withdraw its troops from Mexico.
President Franklin Roosevelt Started The Party (Kind Of)
In 1933, President Roosevelt created the "Good Neighbor Policy" to improve our relationship with Latin American countries.
Holy Guacamole!
Over 33.6 million U.S. residents come from Mexican heritage according to the U.S. census. Fortunately, they brought their colorful traditions and fantastic food with them. On Cinco de Mayo, we consume over 81 million avocados. But, that's not all. There are over 367 tortilla manufacturers in the U.S. Tortillas, the "bread" of Mexico, was even an integral part of the Aztec diet.
We Celebrate Cinco de Mayo More In The U.S. Than They Do In Mexico
We Americans love a party. In Mexico, kids get the day off and there may be a few low-key celebrations. Not surprisingly, the biggest celebration takes place in the city of Puebla. However, the biggest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the WORLD takes place in Los Angeles.
Chihuahua Races
A lot of cities across the country hold Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Houston, Phoenix, Denver, and New York are some of the cities that hold big celebrations. Even Vancouver, Canada celebrates by holding a "skydiving boogie." But, we prefer the way that Chandler, Arizona celebrates. They hold a Chihuahua race! Two dogs are even crowned king and queen!
5 Fun Activities For Kids In Warmer Weather Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with these kid-friendly recipes