Cinco de Mayo Celebrated Nationwide with Music, Food, and History

Cities across the U.S. celebrated Cinco de Mayo on Sunday with parades, music, and traditional Mexican cuisine. Though often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, the holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In the U.S., Cinco de Mayo has become a broader celebration of Mexican-American culture. Community groups and local businesses hosted festivals highlighting mariachi performances, folklórico dancing, and regional dishes. Organizers say the day is an opportunity to honor heritage and promote cultural pride across generations.