What is the Mexican origin of Cinco de Mayo

The Cinco de Mayo is an annual festival on May 5 to commemorate Mexico's victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. This conflict took place in a tense historical context. In 1861, Mexico, weakened after years of war, had stopped paying its debts to France, England and Spain. These countries decided to invade Mexico to obtain a refund. A French army of 6000 soldiers, considered the most powerful military force in the world at the time, arrived at the port of Veracruz.

The story of a historic victory

General Ignacio Zaragoza was the commander of the Mexican Army during the Battle of Puebla on May 5. Despite the fact that the Mexican troops were significantly outnumbered and less well equipped than the French forces led by General Charles Latrille de Lorencez, Zaragoza led his men in an unexpected conquest against the invading army. The confrontation in Puebla was the first major Mexico to win since his liberation from Spain in 1821. It became a symbol of the unity, courage and determination of the people in the face of a more powerful enemy. In several cities across the country, parades and historical re-enactments of the battle are being held. You often see floats decorated in the colors of the flag, extras in period uniforms and sometimes even fireworks.

Is this holiday celebrated in the United States?

Yes, Cinco de Mayo has grown in the United States, especially in Mexican-American communities. This is largely due to waves of immigration in the 1960s. People of Mexican descent settled in California, Texas, and other states in the American Southwest. Although relatively uncelebrated in Mexico, the Mexican holiday on May 5 has become very popular among these communities. It allows them to showcase their culture and heritage. It's big festivities in certain neighborhoods of American cities. Traditional mariachi music and folk dances are in the spotlight.

Comparison with Mexican independence

The September 16 marks Mexico's independence vis-à-vis Spain in 1810. This major political event represents the birth of the modern nation. This is a crucial date in the country's history, marking the end of 300 years of Spanish colonial rule. The Cinco de Mayo, on the other hand, marks the gain of Mexican forces over the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. However, Cinco de Mayo does not have the same historical significance as the 16th of September. For this reason, September 16 is commemorated nationally as the day of the birth of independent Mexico, while Cinco de Mayo is mainly a regional holiday, especially in the state of Puebla. Related Article: 5 Facts About Mexico's Independence Day

Re-enactment of the Battle in Mexico

Every year, the city of Puebla becomes the scene of parades, traditional dances and equestrian demonstrations to commemorate this emblematic event. It is not only an opportunity to remember the courage and determination of Mexican soldiers, but also a moment of national pride and unity.

Celebrate in Quebec

Do we celebrate in Quebec? Yes, this fiesta is an opportunity for them to share and discover aspects of their culture. Public events are organized to mark the date, especially in Montreal and Quebec City. Cinco de Mayo is highlighted in Mexican restaurants or at festivals with traditional music, dance demonstrations, and food tastings. It's an opportunity to sample specialties like tacos, enchiladas, margarita, and see mariachi shows. This is also emphasized in a more private way within families and circles of friends. It features the traditional colors and symbols of Mexico. Cinco de Mayo is a great opportunity to discover a part of Mexican culture in Quebec. The Cinco de Mayo is the perfect opportunity to organize a fun and authentic fiesta. Here are some ideas for activities to want to incorporate to celebrate this special day.

Learning to dance

Introduce your guests to a few steps of Latin dance! Salsa, bachata, cumbia... There are so many frenzied rhythms to explore. You can even organize a small show or dance competition.

Piñata game for kids

Piñatas are inseparable from Mexican fiestas. Hang one up and let the kids have fun breaking it to get the candy. Make sure you have a blindfold to cover the batter's eyes.

Tasting of traditional dishes

Prepare a feast with Mexican flavors! On the menu, you can include tacos, enchiladas, Tamalesof the guacamole or fajitas. To stay in the theme, decorate your table in the colors of the Mexican flag (green, white and red).

Decoration for the celebration of Cinco de mayo

To bring color, making a Papel Picado banner is a perfect activity that children love. Papel Picado, or "perforated paper," is a decorative streamer made by cutting intricate patterns out of sheets of tissue paper. These patterns are then assembled to form a banner that can be hung in the streets during various Mexican festivities. Even though drawing and cutting patterns on paper may seem simple, the Mexicans have perfected this craft to an impressive level. Many craftsmen continue to produce Papel Picado according to tradition, using tools such as chisels, hammers, lead plates, and awls. VIDEO: The work of craftsmen of these colorful banners. This process is a real craftsman's work behind these beautiful colorful streamers. If you want to have fun creating a few, you'll only need scissors. Don't hesitate to be inspired by the tutorials available to learn how to make your own Mexican banner. VIDEO: Tutorial Explained by Children Pinterest page of decoration ideas

Margaritas and Mexican beers

What do we drink? For adults, you can organize a contest for the best margarita. Everyone brings their own secret recipe and a vote will decide the winner. Of course, tequila tasting is also the order of the day and on the beer side, the Corona and Modelo brands are popular. Related Article: The Art of Beer and Wine Pairings with Mexican Food

Conclusion

Cinco de Mayo commemorates a significant military triumph by Mexico over France in 1862, during the confrontation at Puebla. Although it is not Mexican Independence Day, this date is still very significant. It symbolizes the resistance and determination of the Mexican people in the face of adversity. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has become a popular celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Although its historical origin is less well known, it offers an opportunity to taste traditional food, music and typical dances. It brings communities together and showcases the country's rich cultural diversity. Wherever you are, Cinco de Mayo deserves to be discovered. Its historical significance and festive dimension make it an important date in the calendar. Don't hesitate to join the festivities! With musicsome Decorations and a atmosphere festive your celebration of Cinco de Mayo will be a success. ¡Viva México!