Spanish for “Fifth of May,” Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s
victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the first years of the
American Civil War. Today, the date is observed in the United States as a
celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. Cinco de Mayo is generally mistaken to be Mexico's Independence Day—the most
important national holiday in Mexico, celebrated on September 16—but it is not.
In the 1860s, Mexicans and Latinos living in California
during the American Civil War are credited with being the first to celebrate
Cinco de Mayo in the United States. The holiday soon spread to other
U.S. cities with heavy Hispanic populations and on June 7, 2005, issued a Concurrent Resolution calling
on the President to issue a proclamation to observe Cinco de Mayo with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
In San Antonio, there are a number of ways to celebrate
including events at Market Square. Festivities include Mariachis, Tejano and Conjunto music groups, Folklorico dancers, arts and crafts, concerts and lots of great food!
Be safe and happy Cinco de Mayo!
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