The holiday - Cinco de Mayo - is an important date in Mexican history. It commemorates the victory in 1862 of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla.
It also marks the first time the
Mexican army defeated a better
equipped foreign power, in this case the French.
The battle took place in the modern city of Puebla de Zaragoza on 5 May 1862. It is primarily a regional holiday celebrated with great gusto in the Mexican state of Puebla. There are some limited celebrations in other parts of Mexico. In fact I am hearing on the radio right now ads for celebrations, mostly in the form of discounts and sales at different malls here around Merida.
I don't know about other parts of the USofA, but in Colorado, where I'm from, Cinco de Mayo was/is a big deal. There were always big events in the parks, and sometimes downtown, a very carnival like atmosphere with games, rides, vendors, car and bike exhibitions. Oh, and the food vendors, there were always trucks and tables set with regional dishes. I didn't understand the significance of the 'regional' foods then, but I sure appreciate them now. And I do recall the dress of many of the latinos that came to the events, I now also recognize and appreciate the differing regional dress. Travel, and especially living in other countries has a definite affect on ones vision of the world.
One additional thing about Cinco de Mayo -
It is not, as many people think, Mexico's Independence Day, which is actually September 16.
Anyway!
Happy Cinco de Mayo Everyone!
OR
as it is called in Mexico
buen aniversario de la Batalla de Puebla!
Anyway!
Happy Cinco de Mayo Everyone!
OR
as it is called in Mexico
buen aniversario de la Batalla de Puebla!