Dancers at the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival in Washington, D.C., U.S. Via Wikimedia. Let the answers to these frequently asked questions about Cinco de Mayo guide this year’s celebrations.

Demystifying Cinco de Mayo. Answers to these frequently asked questions about Cinco de Mayo, the annual celebration of Mexican culture and history, make it less mysterious.

BY KAZAD, ARTCENTRON

An annual celebration, Cinco de Mayo takes place on May 5 every year. This day offers Mexicans and Latinos an opportunity to celebrate their culture and nationalism. Many people often confuse Mexico’s Independence Day, which is on September 16th. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Battle of Puebla, a bloody war in which a small Mexican army under the command of Ignacio Zaragoza defeated a larger and more advanced French army. The victory has become a symbol of Mexico’s nationalism. Although the French eventually took over Mexico, the celebration of Cinco de Mayo continues to be a significant symbol of Mexico’s national pride and patriotism.

May 5 has become increasingly popular in the United States, especially in areas with a significant Mexican American population. Mexican-American activists started identifying with the victory of indigenous Mexicans during the Battle of Puebla, using the day as a source of pride. Cinco de Mayo has also become popular due to commercialization. Many companies see the festival as an opportunity to put their products in front of customers. Restaurants and bars also benefit from the festivities, preparing some of the most amazing and tantalizing dishes associated with the celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinco de Mayo:

Q: What is Cinco de Mayo?

A: Cinco de Mayo festival takes place on May 5 every year. It offers Mexicans and Latinos an opportunity to celebrate their culture and nationalism.

Q: What is the significance of Cinco de Mayo?

A: Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of the Battle of Puebla, a bloody war in which a small Mexican army under the command of Ignacio Zaragoza defeated a larger and well-armed French army. The victory has become a symbol of Mexico’s nationalism.

Q: How did Cinco de Mayo gain popularity in the United States?

A: Mexican American activists started identifying with the victory of indigenous Mexicans during the Battle of Puebla, using the day as a source of pride. Cinco de Mayo has also become popular due to commercialization, with many companies seeing the festival as an opportunity to showcase their products to potential customers.

Q: How is Cinco de Mayo celebrated?

A: Cinco de Mayo celebration includes parties, dancing, and merry-making. Restaurants and bars also prepare some of the most amazing and tantalizing dishes associated with the celebrations. One of the Cinco de Mayo Bar and Restaurant in Baltimore where preparations often begin months before the festivities. In the United States, there are often parades and cultural events to commemorate the day.

Q: Is Cinco de Mayo celebrated in Mexico?

A: Yes, Cinco de Mayo is a major celebration in Mexico, especially in Puebla, where the Battle of Puebla took place. However, it is not a national holiday in Mexico and is mainly celebrated in Puebla and other parts of the country as a regional holiday.