In the United States there are many people, especially non-Mexican people, who celebrate Cinco de Mayo by going to their local Mexican restaurants and ordering food and so on. The reality is, in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo isn’t widely celebrated. 

Let’s clear up some misconceptions. Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day. It isn’t the fourth of July equivalent like some people believe. It’s not even a national holiday. 

So, what exactly is it? 

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over French imperial forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 during the Franco-Mexican War. 

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is viewed more as a state holiday, celebrated primarily in the state of Puebla. Although, other parts of Mexico celebrate as well. The holiday is often celebrated with military parades and scene reenactments. 

However, for a majority of the population, May 5th is just another work day. Since it is not a national holiday, banks, offices and stores remain open. 

While Cinco de Mayo is not widely celebrated in Mexico, it has become incredibly popular abroad. In the U.S. the holiday is seen as a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Celebrations often involve music, food and more. 

Mexico’s Independence day is actually on September 16th not May 5th. It marks the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. On this day in 1810,  Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla called for a revolt against the Spanish empire. Every year on the night of September 15, the Mexican president will reenact the Grito, yelling “¡Viva México!” 

Hopefully you have a clearer idea of Mexico’s independence day and Cinco de Mayo!

Thanks for reading!

Yailin