Cinco de Mayo History

Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican celebration that falls on May 5 in the U.S. and parts of Mexico. It is observed by Mexican Americans, Mexicans, and people of non-Mexican heritage. The day commemorates Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. Parades, music, food, folkloric dancing, and battle reenactments mark Cinco de Mayo.