Explore America and Mexico during its celebration of Cinco de Mayo

Article Written By: Helen Unwin

To really experience the culture of Mexico there is no better time to make a hotel booking than during Cinco de Mayo.

Fifth of May is a national holiday held every year on and during the first week of May to commemorate the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces, which had control over the country, at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride but is mainly celebrated in America, as the holiday is overshadowed in Mexico by their own Independence Day which takes place in September.

The best place to visit to experience true Mexican pride is the state of Puebla. Steeped in history, this area to the East of Mexico City celebrates Cinco de Mayo better than anywhere else. The capital city in Puebla was integral during the battle against the French in 1862. Just outside the city, inexperienced Mexican troops attacked the French who were camped there. This resulted in victory; although the French moved on to take Mexico City. They dominated the country until 1867.

Today the most important celebrations of the festival take place at the Loreto and Guadalupe forts in the city of Puebla, where the battle occurred. The highlight is a re-enactment of the event at the site, which is highly informative and entertaining. The state also has 2,600 historic buildings, antiques, bars and pottery workshops with the downtown of the capital filled with churches, government buildings and large homes, built by indigenous hands for their Spanish overlords, which are all well worth a look.

You could also venture to the US and experience the celebrations there. In the past, huge parties have taken place in the capital, Washington D.C. In June 7, 2005, the U.S. Congress issued a Concurrent Resolution calling on the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the citizens of the United States to observe Cinco de Mayo with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Celebrations in highly Latino and Spanish areas of the US such as California, tend to draw both from traditional Mexican symbols, such as the Virgen de Guadalupe, and from prominent figures of Mexican descent in the United States. On your travels you are bound to see bright, colourful displays around the local towns, with many displaying Cinco de Mayo banners. Local schools also hold special events to educate pupils about its historical significance.

All over the country, celebrations can be found from mariachi demonstrations held at the Plaza del Pueblo in Los Angeles to street parties showcasing the best of Mexican food, dance, sport and plenty of tequila. This is a great time to make hotel bookings. There are often parades and carnivals throughout the country, making a romantic getaway or family holiday even more fun.

Some of the best places to go include;

Denver, Colorado where the Cinco de Mayo Celebrate Culture Festival attracts over 400,000 people and lasts for two days.

Chicago, Illinois where celebrations held in Douglas Park draws as many as 200,000 people to its colourful Cinco de Mayo celebration that includes a festival, musical events, food booths, games, kids area, and cultural displays.

Reno, Nevada attracts more than 100,000 visitors along with Kansas City, Kansas which celebrates Cinco de Mayo in the heartland.

The San Antonio, Texas Cinco de Mayo festival is also a must see, with music, food, concerts and other commemorations taking place at the historic Market Square.

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