Why We Celebrate Cinco De Mayo: History, Modern Traditions, And Cultural Impact

Cinco de Mayo is a celebration that blends history, tradition, and cultural pride. Honoring Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, this day symbolizes resilience against colonial forces. Here, we’ll explore the origins and observances of Cinco de Mayo in both Mexico and the United States and offer some creative ideas for celebrating the holiday authentically.

Historical origins of Cinco de Mayo: a victory over French troops

Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This battle was a pivotal moment in Mexico's resistance during the Second Franco-Mexican War. At the time, the Mexican government was facing significant financial difficulties and was forced to default on debts owed to several European nations, including France, Spain, and Britain. While Britain and Spain negotiated and withdrew their forces, France, under Emperor Napoleon III, sought to exploit the situation by expanding its empire into Mexico.

The Battle of Puebla represented a moment of triumph for Mexico. French forces were well-equipped, and many expected a swift victory for France. Although the Mexican victory did not end the French intervention, it disrupted Napoleon III’s plans to establish an empire of French rule in Mexican territory, and some suggest it also helped prevent the Confederacy in the US from gaining an ally—the French—that may have helped them win the American Civil War. For Mexico, the battle became a symbol of resistance and national pride, inspiring future struggles for sovereignty. 

Cinco de Mayo in Mexico

Shortly after the victory, President Benito Juárez proclaimed May 5 a national holiday in Mexico. Under the Porfiriato (the long rule of dictator Porfirio Díaz), Cinco de Mayo peaked in popularity: Díaz had fought in the battle, and he used the holiday as an opportunity to reinforce his power. After he was deposed during the Mexican Revolution, Cinco de Mayo’s prominence declined, due in part to its association with the Porfiriato.

Today, Cinco de Mayo is primarily celebrated in the states of Puebla and Veracruz. While still observed as a minor holiday elsewhere in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo in these states is typically marked by military parades, historical reenactments, and cultural events. The day is a reminder of national resilience and pride for many, although it does not hold the same level of significance for most as Independence Day on September 16. 

Cinco de Mayo in the United States

While Cinco de Mayo is a minor holiday in Mexico, it is widely celebrated in the United States. Its origins as an American holiday can be traced back to the immediate aftermath of the Battle of Puebla, when Mexican immigrants in California celebrated after learning of Mexico’s victory in the Spanish-language newspaper La Voz de Méjico. 

In the 1960s, Chicano civil rights activists brought renewed attention to Cinco de Mayo. The Battle of Puebla symbolized resistance against foreign domination and the fight for sovereignty, themes that resonated with the Chicano movement’s efforts to combat systemic discrimination, reclaim cultural identity, and achieve social justice. Celebrating Cinco de Mayo became a way to honor the resilience and unity of the Mexican people while also inspiring pride and empowerment within Mexican-American communities fighting for equality and recognition.

Cinco de Mayo’s popularity grew in the ensuing decades—particularly in cities with large Mexican-American populations. In the 1980s, alcoholic beverage companies seeking to target Hispanic consumers began promoting the holiday, sparking a wave of commercialization. As a result, Cinco de Mayo became firmly established within the broader American culture. 

Misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day

A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day. Instead, Mexicans celebrate their independence day on September 16, commemorating the day in 1810 that Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, urged his congregation to rise up against Spanish colonial rule—an event now known as the "Grito de Dolores" or "Cry of Dolores." Cinco de Mayo, on the other hand, honors the 1862 Battle of Puebla, where a small, outnumbered force of Mexican soldiers prevailed against a well-armed French fleet. 

5 creative ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo

While the commercialization of Cinco de Mayo may mean the holiday is often associated with drinking, its historical and cultural significance makes it a meaningful opportunity to honor Mexican heritage. Here are some creative ways to honor the holiday.

Host a Cinco de Mayo-themed dinner with traditional dishes

On Cinco de Mayo, consider going beyond the usual fare of tacos, chips and salsa, and guacamole to try some regional specialties of Puebla and Veracruz, where Cinco de Mayo is still a significant holiday. This could include Pueblan specialties like mole poblano (a rich chili sauce), chiles en nogada (stuffed peppers with walnut sauce), or a cemita sandwich (typically filled with meat and cheese). Coastal Veracruz offers dishes like pescado a la veracruzana (fish in a tomato-based sauce), arroz a la tumbada (a seafood and rice dish), and picadas (thick corn tortillas topped with various ingredients).

Explore Mexican music and dance styles

Dancing is a popular way to celebrate in Mexico, where public squares, or plazas, serve as venues for live music, dancing, and other festivities that bring people together. On Cinco de Mayo, you can enjoy this Mexican tradition in whichever way appeals to you, whether it’s listening to Mexican music like mariachi, ranchera, or norteño; learning a traditional dance like folklórico or jarabe tapatío; or attending a local cultural event or performance.

Support local Mexican-owned businesses

Small businesses are vital to local economies and often serve as hubs for immigrant communities and neighborhoods. According to the US Treasury Department, there are roughly 5 million Latino-owned businesses operating in the United States, which generate upwards of $800 billion annually. As Mexican Americans make up roughly 62% of the Hispanic population, Cinco de Mayo can be a good opportunity to support a Mexican-owned business. 

Learn about Mexican history and culture

Mexico has a rich history that blends indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and modern innovation. In the United States as well, Mexican Americans have shaped the cultural landscape and contributed to the nation’s identity through their art, cuisine, music, and traditions. Cinco de Mayo provides a perfect opportunity to explore this heritage and celebrate the depth and resilience of Mexican culture. Consider watching a documentary, visiting a museum, or attending a cultural event to learn more about Mexican history and traditions. 

Organize a Cinco de Mayo craft activity

You might also celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a creative craft activity inspired by Mexican traditions. One fun and easy craft you might consider is making papel picado, the colorful cut-paper decorations that often adorn party spaces in Mexico. You could also create your own piñatas to add a personal touch to your Cinco de Mayo celebration. Pottery painting is another enjoyable option, where you can create items inspired by traditional Mexican folk art motifs. Crafting together can be a fun way to honor Mexico’s artistic traditions while adding a personal, vibrant touch to your celebration. 

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There are many reasons a person might seek mental health care, and there are now multiple ways to obtain it. For people who don’t have therapists in their area or who can’t regularly commute to and from in-person appointments, online therapy can be a more convenient option. With a platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist according to your needs and preferences per a brief questionnaire and then meet with them remotely. That means you can get culturally competent mental health care—available in multiple languages—virtually, from home or anywhere you have an internet connection. 

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Takeaway

Cinco de Mayo is more than a celebration of Mexican heritage; it’s a tribute to resilience, unity, and cultural pride. Honoring the 1862 Battle of Puebla, the holiday highlights Mexico’s enduring spirit and ability to overcome challenges. Cinco de Mayo can be a meaningful time to embrace the traditions and history of Mexico and the Mexican diaspora. You can celebrate by exploring its traditions, supporting local businesses, enjoying authentic cuisine, and learning about Mexico’s rich history and culture. For culturally competent mental health care, connect with a therapist in your area or on a platform like BetterHelp.