Cinco De Mayo
customs and history in mexico
Next time people will celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Mexico will be...
Event Information
Cinco De Mayo
When?
Sunday, Apr 26, 2015, 12:00 AM
Where?
Puebla, Mexico
The History of Cinco de Mayo
Cinco De Mayo is a celebration that takes place on the 5th of May. Mexico celebrates the day as a celebration of there freedom, though it is not there independence day. It is an anniversary of the battle of Puebla. This was 40 years after they declared independence but they owed England, France, and Spain a lot of money. France was attempting to expand its nation, so Napoleon III invaded Mexico using the fact that Mexico owed money, as an alibi. That started the Franco-Mexican war from 1861-1867. A turning point during the war took place on May 5, 1862 when a weak army lead by Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza, they unexpectedly beat the french army. This was known as the battle of Puebla, and this is why they celebrate the day.
Famouse People Involved in the Battle of Puebla
Napoleon III
He was the ruler of France, and a general during the Franco-Mexican war.
Ignacio Zaragoza
He was a very important general. He gathered up the army during the battle of Puebla to fight against the french.
Benito Juarez
A president of Mexico during the war.
Celbration
The main celebration in Mexico mostly takes place in Puebla, where the battle took place. There they hold a huge parade honoring that battle. Vendors sell Mexican food and battle-like-clothes to celebrate. They also sometimes do a reenactment of the battle to show visitors coming to celebrate. During the parade, the Mexican military walks in the parade. Its all in all a great fun festivity when they honor the heroes of the battle of Puebla.
Family Traditions
In Mexico, people usually throw parties with friends and family. Red White and Green (the colors of the Mexican flag) often are seen in costumes and decoration of the celebration. They decorate with balloons, streamers, and flowers. They often listen to Mariachi bands, or Mexican music, and do traditional Mexican dancing while they celebrate. They also serve Mexican foods during a feast on Cinco De May (foods like tacos, enchiladas, salsa, chile relleno etc.)
Examples of Food
All in all, this is a fun exciting holiday celebrating a defying war and battle of the Mexicans.