For many Americans, Cinco de Mayo means going to your favorite Mexican joint to enjoy tacos, fresh chips and guac, and likely a couple of margaritas! But do you know why we celebrate it? Many people know that “cinco” means 5 in Spanish, but it’s without a doubt one of the most misunderstood Mexican holidays out there.
We’re here to clear the air so you know exactly why you’re celebrating and pounding those tasty margs! We’ll also give you the low down on all the best events/festivities to attend for Cinco de Mayo in Houston!
Why Do We Celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo does not signify Mexico’s Independence Day (which is on September, 16).
Cinco de Mayo is a day observed to commemorate the Mexican Army’s unlikely victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Essentially, Mexico owed France a lot of money and Mexico couldn’t pay it back. Mexico’s President stated that payments on this debt would be halted for 2 years so that their country wouldn’t starve.
France didn’t like hearing this, so they decided to come fight for their rightful money. (There were no legal institutions at this time to help handle money issues between countries.) The Mexican soldiers were badly outnumbered, outgunned, and definitely weren’t expecting to defeat the French, so it was very shocking when they did win the battle.
Cinco de Mayo should ultimately remind us that international politics is always about money and that whenever you fight against foreign influence, you need to watch your back. It symbolizes that Mexico was at a low point and ultimately stayed strong as a country to pull through during their struggling time. Americans celebrate Mexico’s heritage and culture on May 5th with delicious food, parades, parties, mariachi music, and other fun events.
Cinco de Mayo in Houston – The Best Events
El Big Bad Margarita Bar – May 4-6 (All Weekend)
Come join in the fun for their 8th Annual Cinco de Mayo Party! A weekend-long fiesta of live music, drink specials, Shot Girls, Tequila Masters, samples, FREE face paintings, and it’s free to get in. Saturday is when majority of the action will happen!
Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl for Charity – May 5 (2pm-9pm)
Located in downtown Houston, there will be drink specials at many great bars for crawlers, so get your tickets fast!
Cinco In the City – May 5 (All Day)
All-day-long family cultural experience complete with Mexican food vendors, craft vendors, decorations, music, and more! Great for the whole family to enjoy.
Caracol – May 5 (11am-3pm)
Celebrations are happening all day long with a special brunch with Mexican dishes from 11am-3pm. Drink Specials and giveaways are from 3pm-11pm, and live mariachi music is from 5:30pm-7:30pm.
Cuchara – May 5
Experience a one-of-a-kind Cinco de Mayo experience! For $20, guests can watch lucha libre performances from male and female luchadors, and also ‘micro wrestlers’ MicroMan and Kemonito from Mexico City. Food and drink specials will be going on all day.
The Pastry War – All Week Long
The whole week leading up to Cinco de Mayo, enjoy 50% off tequilas and mazcals from 4-6:30pm, complete with complimentary agua frescas and games of pool. Their house margaritas are to die for!
Texan Insurance wants you to have the best Cinco de Mayo in Houston yet! If you have any insurance concerns/questions or would like to request a quote, please contact us today.