Sombreros, margaritas and Coronas -- these are popular things that most people think of when Cinco de Mayo rolls around. Many think it’s Mexican Independence Day, but May 5, 1862 was actually the day the Mexican army won a seemingly impossible battle against France.
Continue reading to find out some fun facts about why we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, courtesy of History.com and Kaboose.com:
“Cinco de Mayo” is Spanish for the fifth of May.
Mexico’s Independence Day is September 16.
On May 5, 1982 Mexico fought France in the Battle of Pueblo.
The victory helped unify Mexico. The country was elated their poorly armed troops of 4,500 men were able to defeat France’s invasion of 6,500 to 8,000 well-equipped soldiers.
Even though Cinco de Mayo is a national holiday in Mexico, it’s only widely celebrated in Pueblo. In the United States is recognized as a popular holiday to learn about Mexican culture.
The largest Cinco de Mayo festival is held in Los Angeles. Nearly 600,000 come out to celebrate.
In Chandler, Arizona a Chihuahua parade is held. At the end, a King and Queen Chihuahua of the festival is crowned.
Most Mexican Americans see Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of Mexican culture, similar to how Irish Americans celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
Popular foods to eat in the US on Cinco de Mayo are guacamole, tacos, burritos and enchiladas.
The colors of Mexico’s flag are green, white and red: green for hope and independence, white for purity and religion and red for Spain and union.
