Cinco de Mayo is an annual holiday that falls on the 5th of May, celebrating the Mexican army over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War in 1862. Hence, it is also known as ‘Battle of Puebla Day’.

Here are some crazy facts about the holiday:

1. Cinco de Mayo literally means 5th May in Spanish

2. It is NOT Mexican Independence Day. Instead, it is the celebratory day of just one battle.

3. The battle of Puebla was not strategically significant in the war but was historically important because the victory symbolised the Mexicans strength and grew the resistance movement.

4. However, Mexico no more recognises it as a National holiday; only Puebla celebrates it. But it is a huge celebration in the USA.

5. People celebrate with music, authentic clothes, food and traditions. Colourful dresses called ‘Puebla dresses’ are worn. Mariachi music is played and activities like chihuahua races are held.

Bring Cinco de Mayo Home!

Typically, the festive food includes tacos, guacamole and tortilla chips, enchiladas, Cerveza (beer) and tequila cocktails! The ingredients are found in any supermarket, or best – enjoy the festival with some takeaways from On the Border.

Go Colourful! Decorate your home and kitchen table with lots of colourful garlands, balloons and napkins! The brighter the better.

Don’t forget to shake it up with different cocktails. This will take your fiesta to the next level – after all, alcohol always helps!

However, if you are craving some Mexican food and cocktails, why wait for Cinco de Mayo? Hop on to On the Border tonight!