Come Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Us
Cinco de Mayo, which means “The 5th of May” in Spanish, is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. It is not, however, Mexico’s Independence day, a common misconception, which is actually held on the 16th of September (Dieciséis de Septiembre). Cinco de Mayo is a regional holiday in Mexico that is mainly celebrated in the state of Puebla. The holiday, while not federally recognized by the Mexican government, is recognized and celebrated in the United States and other countries.
In 1861, Mexico had ceased making interest payments to its primary creditors and in retaliation France, along with other European countries, attacked Mexico in an attempt to force payment. Instead of merely attempting to collect on a debt, the French also sought to take over and occupy Mexico and was initially successful.
On May 5th, 1862 the Mexican army, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín, procured a seemingly impossible victory over the better-equipped French army who had not seen a defeat for nearly 50 years, and who outnumbered them almost two-to-one. This epic clash, which would also mark the last time than an army from another continent invaded the Americas, would be forever known as the Battle of Puebla.
Despite the victory at Puebla, the French Invasion on Mexico City was only delayed. A year later the French had occupied Mexico and placed Maximilian I on the throne of Mexico. Under U.S. pressure, the French would eventually withdraw between 1866 and 1867 and Maximilian I would be executed by President Benito Juarez.
The Cinco de Mayo Festival in historic Old Messila
The historic town of Old Mesilla, located a scant few minutes from Las Cruces, will be hosting the annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in the town plaza from noon to 10 p.m. May 2nd and from noon to 7 p.m. May 3rd. You can find driving directions on the Old Mesilla website located here. There is no admission charge, however, there will be a wealth of great food, music, and entertainment to enjoy so come on out and join us!
- Approximately 30 vendor booths will be lining the Mesilla Plaza and will offer a wide variety of food, drinks, games, crafts, art and more.
- Kids will be able to enjoy a greased pole climb and piñatas.
- May 2nd: Dulce band will perform live from 6 to 10 p.m.
- May 3rd: Krucez band will be performing live from 4 to 7 p.m.
For those unable to attend, have no fear, we will be doing a follow-up post of the fiesta filled with pictures of the event.
Tags:celebration, cinco de mayo, fiesta, mexican heritage, mexico, old mesilla
