The United States celebrates Cinco de Mayo as a cheerful holiday, although it is frequently mistaken for Mexico’s day of independence. The motherland does not pay much attention to this festivity unlike here where fêtes are plentiful.
This day is named after the Battle of Puebla which was a turning point in the country’s history. On May 5, 1862, Mexican troops unexpectedly won against French soldiers at Puebla city; however, even such a victory did not make it become a nationwide holiday in Mexico.
Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo with music, dancing, and food from across Mexico. Restaurants have all-day happy hours on drinks like margaritas or offer cheap deals for tacos. Folklorico dancers perform in many places alongside mariachi bands making everything look joyous.
It might be surprising but Cinco de Mayo is not equivalent to Mexican Independence Day (celebrated on September 16). Rather it represents an example of how strong and united Mexico could be during critical times like this one when its very existence was threatened by powerful invaders.
Even more interestingly enough though hardly anyone outside knows about it – hardly anyone within recognizes Cinco De Mayo either! Indeed there is no other holiday that lacks so much general excitement throughout the whole country than this one which has grown into being embraced by different communities as a cultural celebration of diversity in America.
