Cinco de Mayo may be one of Mexico’s best-known holidays in the United States, but most travelers probably don’t know its real significance. Luckily, there are several ways to learn about the true origins of Cinco de Mayo while enjoying a Mexico vacation.
First things first: Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day.
It’s actually a commemoration of an important military victory of Mexico’s armed forces against Napoleon III’s French troops during the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
And although it was a tremendous and important win for Mexico, the occasion is not celebrated much in most of the nation. Unlike in the U.S., where the date is often marked by beer promotions and bar decorations, in Mexico, travelers will find a very different Cinco de Mayo experience (unless they happen to stop at a tourist-oriented bar, restaurant or hotel).
Still, there are some interesting ways to learn about and commemorate this special day in Mexico.
For a Truly Authentic Experience, the Best Choice Is the City of Puebla
Puebla is near the site where the actual battle took place. A grand military parade and other festivities bring the city to life, and this year, the event is expected to be a bit closer to normal as in-person gatherings return to the streets.
Since it can be difficult to find updated details about the event, making Cinco de Mayo travel plans in Puebla can be easier when working with a tour operator such as Audley Travel, which creates customized itineraries and has local contacts; or full-service hotels including the InterContinental Presidente Puebla, where concierges can point guests in the direction of Cinco de Mayo activities.
(Pro tip: While early May isn’t as much of a peak travel period as the Christmas holidays or Holy Week, it’s still a good idea to reserve hotels and tours as far in advance as possible.)
Regardless of when you visit Puebla, you can learn more about the day’s history at the Museo Interactivo de La Batalla de Cinco de Mayo, an interactive museum that recounts the nation’s dramatic victory.
Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Outside of Puebla
Puebla may be the most appropriate choice for a true Cinco de Mayo celebration, but even travelers headed to beach destinations in May can find some options. The beachfront events and hotel packages may not be as focused on the date’s historic significance, but it’s still a pleasant opportunity to celebrate Mexican traditions, culture and identity.
The Viceroy Riviera Maya, for example, offers a culinary Cinco de Mayo package that starts on May 5. The chef-led program includes dinner at La Marea restaurant, a “tacos y mezcal” culinary experience and a barbecue accompanied by tequila and mezcal, along with a tamale and margarita lunch.
In Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos is hosting a theme night that includes a buffet dinner, live music and folk-dance performances. The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, meanwhile, is offering custom tequila blending sessions.
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita offers tequila blending sessions for visitors during Cinco de Mayo.
Credit: 2022 Four Seasons Resort Punta MitaIn Puerto Vallarta, Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments has created a Cinco de Mayo variation on its usual weekly Mexican Fiesta party, which takes place every Thursday on the beach and in the beachfront Sunset restaurant. In addition to the usual live music and fireworks, special Cinco de Mayo activities include a Margaritas Festival, with bartenders promising traditional and contemporary takes on the popular cocktail.
Also in Puerto Vallarta, the Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway is planning a revamped version of its weekly Friday dinner, which showcases traditional Mexican cuisine with upscale flair.
For the week of Cinco de Mayo, the event will move to Thursday to coincide with the important date, and executive chef Sebastian Varona is planning unique variations on Mexican dishes, in a festive setting complemented by marimba and mariachi performers playing traditional music. In addition, the hotel’s head mixologist, Enrique Ruiz, will prepare creative cocktails made with mezcal, raicilla and tequila.
