cuisine.
3. Read Mexican literature
The state of Puebla has many well known works of literature and home to many accomplished poets, playwrights and writers. The proof is in the library. Puebla is home to the first library of the Americas. Novels, folklore, poetry and even biographies are a beautiful way to become more acquainted with the Mexican culture.
We were first introduced to Folklore of Puebla years ago when my sister got a copy of The Princess and The Warrior A Tale of Two Volcanoes by Duncan Tonatiuh for our girls. We LOVE this book. The art work is inspired by indigenous art and the story tells the tale of two lovers based on the legend of Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl. If you love this book as much as we do check out some other works by Duncan Tonatiuh.
Some of our other favorite Mexican stories for families include: Viva Frida, Dream Carver, The Cazuela That The Farm Maiden Stirred and What Can You Do With A Paleta?. For older readers we love: The House on Mango Street, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter and Mexican Whiteboy.
4. Listen to Mexican Music
Cinco de Mayo celebrations are often accompanied by mariachi music. We love mariachi music, but don’t let it steal the spotlight. There is traditional music from Puebla that has influences from the waltz, zarzuela and the Mexican version of trova. It is admittedly hard to find music from Puebla here in the states, but check out Mexican trova, banda, norteño, ranchera, huasteco, jarocho, grupera, tamborazo zacatecano, and marimba-based ensembles where ever you stream music.
You can get a sample of Mexican music with these famous songs: “Oye cómo va” by Santana, “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens, “Bésame mucho” by Consuelo Velázquez and “Como la Flor” by Selena.
I would be remiss not to mention the favorite Mexican band of my high school self, Maná. Check out “Rayando El Sol”, “Oye Mi Amor” and “En el Muelle de San Blas” if you want to really treat yourself this Cinco de Mayo. For my fellow hiphop fans check out the Mexican Latin rap group Control Machete. They were also a favorite of my high school self.
5. Learn About Puebla
The battle of Puebla is the reason for Cinco de Mayo so don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the beautiful people, culture and history of the place. Aside from the foods, stories and art already mentioned, there is so much more to learn about the state of Puebla. The beautiful landscapes called Pueblos Mágicos are reason to add Puebla to your travel list. Puebla de Zaragoza is the capital of Puebla and its largest city and a Cultural Heritage of Humanity site by the UNESCO.
Puebla is also home to the Cholula, the largest pyramid in Mesoamerica. The legend of Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl is based on two volcanoes, one active, in Puebla.
The painted Talavera tiles, originated in the region as a combination between Spanish pottery and native designs, and adorn local buildings. The traditional style of dress called china poblano also originated in Puebla. Local folk art also includes the clay craft called the Trees of Life.
This is really just scratching the surface so take something your family is interested in and get to researching!
salud to your Cinco de Mayo celebration
Don’t worry we didn’t forget the drinks! Don’t be drawn into the margarita trap. Try something new this year like a Horchata, Michelada, Paloma or Tepache. Our freinds at Reed’s sent over some of their craft ginger beer to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo. We can’t wait to try them with some tequilla in our aguas frescas for a little grown up version. Reed’s also makes a great addition to a Paloma or Michelada.
Created by Reed’s
- 2 oz. of Blanco Tequila
- 4 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
- .5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice
- Top with Reed’s Extra Ginger Beer
- Lime Wedge (For Garnish)
Fill each glass half full with ice. Mix fresh lime, grapefruit juice and tequila. Stir until well combined. Top with Reed’s Extra Ginger Beer for a sweet and spicy kick! Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!
Ginger Ale Michelada
Created by Maya Feller
Ginger has long been loved for its health b