Celebrating Cinco de Mayo 🪇

🇲🇽 So, What Is Cinco de Mayo?

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day (that’s September 16th!). Instead, it commemorates the Battle of Puebla, when a small Mexican army triumphed over French forces on May 5, 1862. This underdog victory became a symbol of resilience and national pride—even though the French would later return with reinforcements, the spirit of the day lives on.

📍 Where Is It Celebrated?

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is mainly observed in the state of Puebla, where the battle took place. It’s not a federal holiday there, and in most parts of Mexico, it's a relatively low-key event.

But in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has grown into a major celebration of Mexican-American culture, especially in communities with strong Latinx heritage. Think music, dance, parades, traditional food, and lots of colorful decor!

🎊 How Can We Celebrate Respectfully (and Deliciously)?

Here are some ways we can join the celebration while also honoring its roots:

🌮 Food Fun: Treat yourself to authentic Mexican cuisine. Tacos, tamales, elote (Mexican street corn), and churros are great picks!

🎶 Music & Dance: Try a mariachi playlist or explore traditional Mexican folk music. Some even like to learn a few steps of folklórico or salsa dancing!

📚 Learn Something New: Take a few minutes to read up on Mexican history or explore art from famous Mexican creators like Frida Kahlo or Diego Rivera.

🧠 Quiz Time! Don’t miss our Cinco de Mayo Quiz—test your knowledge and maybe win a prize or some office bragging rights!

🤝 A Chance to Connect

Cinco de Mayo is more than a festive day—it’s a moment to celebrate diversity, resilience, and the contributions of the Mexican-American community. Whether you join in by trying a new dish, learning a fun fact, or simply sharing the moment with coworkers, it’s all part of honoring this cultural celebration with curiosity and joy.

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo! 🎉