It is widely believed that Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s independence, this however, is a misconception. Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain on September 16th. The holiday of Cinco De Mayo, The 5th Of May, commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in Mexico as a regional holiday in the State of Puebla, it is not celebrated throughout the country.
US celebration of Cinco de Mayo has evolved into something bigger, like the Mexican Saint Patrick’s Day. In fact Cinco de Mayo became a very important date in America since it was invented in California, according to UCLA Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture. The Cinco de Mayo celebration provides a collective identity for Latinos, whether they were born here in California or immigrated from Mexico, Central America or South America. This special date has gained popularity around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage.
And what a better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than preparing some delicious guacamole and dangerous Margaritas. Here is my recipe for both:
Guacamole
Ingredients: 4 ripe avocados, 1/2 red onion chopped, juice of 3 limes, salt, ground pepper, 1 garlic clove minced, 1 handful of fresh cilantro finely chopped and extra-virgin olive oil.
- Cut the avocados in half and take out the pit.
- Scoop out the flesh with a tablespoon.
- Mash the avocados with a fork.
- Add the remaining ingredients, and gently mix.
- The lime helps avoid blackening.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Margaritas
- 1 1/2 oz tequila
- 1/2 oz premium triple sec (preferably Cointreau)
- 1 oz lime juice
- Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with lime juice, and dip in salt.
- Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into the glass, and serve.
This is a day for enjoying guacamole, margaritas and delicious Mexican food. The biggest celebrations take place in Los Angeles, Houston and Chicago.
Where to go celebrate Cinco de Máyo in Los Angeles
Click here for a full map of Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Los Angeles:
View Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles in a larger map
Many Cinco de Mayo celebrations are going on around the United States, feel free to post your local parties and parades!
¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!
