Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s victory at the (first) battle of Puebla. It was a major morale boost for Mexico, but it didn’t end the war. Battles continued and the French invasion succeeded the following year. Cinco de Mayo isn’t an official Mexican holiday, but Mexicans do commemorate the date. The victory in battle is the primary reason for celebration in Mexico. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo focuses more on celebrating Mexican culture in general. American celebrations began in 1863 as a show of solidarity with Mexico against the French. [2] X Research source

Mexico City is the oldest city in North America and Mexico’s capital. Chocolate is from Mexico. The cacao plant was first cultivated there. The dahlia is Mexico’s national flower. [4] X Research source

Make guacamole with avocado, onion, serrano pepper, and cilantro. Whip up some tasty tacos. If you’re a vegetarian, feel free to omit the beef. Try an easy enchilada recipe for your family to enjoy.

Mole is a gravy-like sauce used as a filling and a topping in Mexican Cuisine. Mole recipes vary widely across different Mexican regions.

Avoid stereotypical décor since that can come off as offensive. For example, decorating with sombreros and ponchos isn’t respectful (and wearing them is definitely not okay). [8] X Research source

You might tune in to a radio station or look up Spotify playlists that showcase traditional Mexican music. Mexican-American musician Selena was known as the Queen of Tejano. If you aren’t sure where to start, or if you prefer music with a pop influence, you might look up some of Selena’s tunes. [10] X Research source

Fiesta Broadway in Los Angeles is one of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the world. If you’re within driving distance, this event would definitely be worth a road trip.

Like Water for Chocolate, by Laura Esquivel The Labyrinth of Solitude, by Octavio Paz The Death of Artemio Cruz, by Carlos Fuentes Guardian Devil, by Xavier Velasco[13] X Research source

Wearing any type of “Mexican” costume (sombreros, ponchos, etc. ) Wearing a fake mustache Speaking in a fake Mexican accent Using this as an excuse to drink margaritas and do tequila shots