Every year the Cinco de Mayo celebrations grow in the United States. Yet in Mexico, where it began, it is only a minor holiday. The Mexican victory over the French in 1862 is mainly commemorated in Puebla, Mexico, where the battle actually took place. In the United States, on the other hand, this holiday is the reason for partying from one shore to the other.
Cinco de Mayo celebrations have been happening since 1860′s in California, due to the large population of American Latinos in that area. Studies from the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture at UCLA have shown that the Latino population wishes to give tribute to the Mexican triumph over the French. It might be minor across the border but it is big business here in the States.
Today, most Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the United States honor Mexican culture instead of that battle from 1862. Like other cultural holidays celebrated in the US like Chinese New Year, St. Patrick’s Day and Oktoberfest, they let us indulge in one of the many cultures that have contributed to our own.
The opportunity with Cinco de Mayo to celebrate the richness of Mexican culture helps us learn more about them as we honor their figures of historical importance like the great Cesar Chavez, and the symbols of Mexican faith, like Our Lady of Guadalupe. Schools help students explore Mexican history, their people, and how their culture has contributed to ours here in the U.S. Mexican crafts, their traditional clothing, and folk dancing are all enjoyed.
In many communities all over the country, Cinco de Mayo is rung in with lively music, colorful banners and dancing. Americans from all walks of life enjoy this chance to explore Mexican culture and have a good time. Some places set up large celebrations outdoors complete with parades, dancing, live music, and delicious food. Those participating sometimes choose to dress up in traditional Mexican costumes and colorful woven ponchos.
Some communities have their celebrations in Mexican restaurants and bars. These celebrations are filled with adults who want to eat great Mexican food and enjoy Mexican beverages like tequila, beer, and margaritas. Live music may help the celebration with its exciting beat.
Cinco de Mayo parties are also held in private homes. Hosts decorate with red, white, and green streamers, hang banners, or decorate with traditional symbols of Mexico. They cook delicious food and invite all of their friends and family to come over.
Americans might be a bit hazy on Cinco de Mayo history, but they celebrate the Mexican culture with pride. The impact Mexico has made on American culture is something to be proud of and be honored and celebrated. The United States would not be the same without them.
How will you celebrate this year? Will you attend a community party? Go out for a fabulous Mexican meal? Perhaps plan your own private gathering and have a Mexican meal at home or in a local park? There are so many ways to celebrate all the great foods and traditions we have received from Mexico. You will easily find what works best for you.
Discover the truth about Mexican food history and find out more about the wonderful recipes that make MexicanFoodRecipes.org a favorite with the whole family.
