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A Cinco de Mayo concept featuring festive decorations like sombreros, candy skulls, cacti, and maracas on a bold, pink background.

What is Cinco de Mayo Celebrating?

(Besides Margaritas & Mexican Food, Of Course)

Spoiler: It’s not Mexican Independence Day.

Ah, Cinco de Mayo. That magical time of year when people across America dust off their dollar-store sombreros, order margaritas by the pitcher full, and eat as much Mexican food as they can stomach, all in celebration of…uh, deliciousness, right?

Sorry, but no. It’s not about the tacos — or the tequila.

Don’t worry — you’re not the only one Googling “what is Cinco de Mayo celebrating.” In fact, according to a 2020 poll, 19% of Americans are not sure what Cinco de Mayo celebrates, and a whopping 40% think it’s Mexico’s Independence Day. (It’s not.)

So…what does Cinco de Mayo actually celebrate?

Lucky for you, we’ve done our homework and are here to give you the real story of Cinco de Mayo. Ready for a little history lesson from your favorite Mexican restaurant? Let’s dive into what Cinco de Mayo is actually celebrating, how it became so popular in America, and how to celebrate it like a true Amigo would.

What is Cinco de Mayo celebrating?

Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

Yep — it’s all about that underdog energy! The Mexican army, outnumbered and outgunned, defeated Napoleon III’s troops in an incredible win that sent shockwaves across the globe.

It wasn’t the end of the Franco-Mexican war, but it was a huge morale boost for the Mexican army. Think David vs. Goliath…but with a lot more rifles and muskets and no slingshots (as far as we know).

Want to get all historical about it? We did a full breakdown in this blog about the Battle of Puebla. You’re welcome, history nerds.

So…it’s not Mexican Independence Day?

Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is NOT Mexican Independence Day.

That’s September 16 — Dieciséis de Septiembre, for those of you flexing your Duolingo streak. Cinco de Mayo isn’t about independence at all. It’s about resilience. Pride. Beating the odds. And who wouldn’t want to raise a (margarita) glass to that?

Cinco de Mayo isn’t even a national holiday in Mexico. It’s primarily celebrated in Puebla, the site of the historic battle. In the U.S., though? It’s bloomed into a full-on cultural extravaganza — a day to appreciate Mexican heritage, food, and community.

But how did the U.S. get so hyped for Cinco de Mayo?

Good question. The short answer? F.D.R. and marketing.

The longer answer? In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt enacted the “Good Neighbor Policy” to try to improve America’s relations with Latin American countries. This policy introduced Americans to Cinco de Mayo, which became more widely celebrated in the U.S. in the 1950s and 60s and was eventually named a national holiday.

Then, in the 1980s, American beer companies realized that marketing their brews as a perfect pairing for Mexican dishes could generate lots of revenue — and boom, Cinco de Mayo took off in the States.

Nowadays, Cinco de Mayo is observed in the U.S. as a celebration of Mexican-American culture (and also a great excuse to eat guac or queso like it’s going out of style).

How to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Like a True Amigo

Listen, you don’t need to memorize battle stats or pronounce “Puebla” perfectly to have a great Cinco. (You can read our blog on festive Spanish phrases for Cinco de Mayo if you want to show off a little, though.) Just remember to celebrate with respect, good vibes, and great food!

Here’s how to do it right:

  • Sip responsibly. Margaritas don’t need to be bottomless to be magical.
  • Eat like you mean it. Enchiladas. Tacos. Queso. Repeat.
  • Support local. Your neighborhood Mexican restaurant (hi, it’s us) is ready to party.
  • Show some appreciation. Whether you have Mexican heritage or not, Cinco de Mayo is an opportunity to celebrate a beautiful culture — and everyone is invited to the fiesta.

Want more ideas for how you can celebrate (responsibly) at your fiesta this year? Check out this blog we wrote to learn our top tips for a perfect Cinco de Mayo party.

Let’s Recap: What Is Cinco de Mayo Celebrating, Again?

It celebrates the Battle of Puebla — and the heart, grit, and unity of the Mexican people. In the U.S., it’s become a day to honor Mexican culture and community. So no, it’s not about independence — but it is about freedom, pride, and maybe just a little bit of fajita-fueled joy.

And if you’re looking for where to celebrate? You already know where to find us.

Need some friends to party with this Cinco de Mayo?

We’ve got all the Amigos (and tequila) you need.

Come party at your favorite Amigo location this Cinco de Mayo. You bring the friends. We’ll bring the food and the fiesta.

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East Ridge
3805 Ringgold Rd
East Ridge, TN 37412

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5794 Brainerd Rd
Chattanooga, TN 37411

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5450 Highway 154
Hixson, TN 37343

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623 W Elk Ave
Elizabethton, TN 37643

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3211 Peoples St, Suite 70
Johnson City, TN 37604

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125 E Jackson Blvd
Jonesborough, TN 37659

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Johnson City, TN 37604