13 Cinco de Mayo Facts That’ll Make You Question Everything

1. Cinco De Mayo is Not Mexico’s Independence Day

Did you know that Cinco de Mayo celebrates a different event than many people think? Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about Mexico’s Independence Day — that’s September 16th.

Instead, it honors a remarkable victory from May 5, 1862, when Mexican forces triumphed over the French at the Battle of Puebla. It was an amazing show of determination, and it has since become a symbol of Mexican unity and patriotism.

2. More Celebrated in the U.S. Than Mexico

While Cinco de Mayo might bring to mind images of spirited parades and mariachi music, it’s actually a bigger deal in the United States than in Mexico. It’s puzzling, but true, this day finds more fanfare north of the border.

In fact, it’s become a celebration of Mexican heritage, complete with vibrant festivals and delicious foods, especially in cities with large Mexican-American populations.

3. The Underdog Victory of Mexico

During the Battle of Puebla, 6,000 French soldiers marched to Puebla City, versus a modest 2,000 brave Mexican defenders.

On May 5, 1862, Mexico claimed an epic win against France—an army everyone thought would win. This victory isn’t just a notch in the history books; it’s a grand display of Mexico’s gutsy spirit.

4. French Occupation Continued Post-Battle

After the surprising Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, there’s more to the story. While this day symbolizes an underdog triumph, the French didn’t pack up and leave right away. In fact, they stayed for another five years!

The French sought to establish a foothold in Mexico, and it wasn’t until 1867 that the French troops finally bid adiós.

5. Not a Federal Holiday in Mexico

While you might be gearing up for a lively celebration on May 5th, it’s eye-opening to know that Cinco de Mayo isn’t celebrated across all of Mexico! It’s actually a big deal mainly in Puebla, where the historic 1862 battle it commemorates happened.

This day in Puebla is marked with parades and reenactments, celebrating a key victory against French forces. However, outside of Puebla, it’s mostly a regular day with schools and businesses running as usual.

6. U.S. Celebrations Since the 1860s

When you raise your glass on the fifth of May, you’re not just celebrating—you’re part of a tradition that’s been going strong for more than 150 years in the USA!

Historians say that Mexican miners in California were the first to rejoice in this historic victory, igniting the tradition.

7. Boosted by 1960s Chicano Activism

Your celebrations of Cinco de Mayo actually owe a lot to a powerful wave of pride that washed over the U.S. in the ’60s and ’70s. This wasn’t just about enjoying tasty treats and vibrant parades; it was a heartfelt movement kindled by the Chicano activists.

Their passion turned May 5 from a minor observance into a major moment of unity and cultural pride across communities.

8. U.S. Beer Companies Promote the Holiday

You might think Cinco de Mayo is all about history, but it’s also about savvy marketing! In the United States, beer companies saw the perfect opportunity to promote their products by tapping into the festive spirit of the holiday.

It’s smart business; beer brands linked fun celebrations with their beverages, and it stuck. The 1970s and 1980s saw a huge boost in Cinco de Mayo’s popularity, thanks partly to these efforts.

9. Not to Be Confused with Day of the Dead

You might think Cinco de Mayo is just another Day of the Dead, but they’re totally different holidays! While Day of the Dead is a time to remember loved ones who have passed on, Cinco de Mayo is all about Mexican pride and victory.

10. World’s Largest Celebration in Los Angeles

Forget the modest gatherings; LA goes all out. Your senses will come alive with the sound of mariachi bands and the sight of traditional dancers. Los Angeles truly shines as the host of a celebration that turns a historical tale into a present-day carnival, uniting people from all walks of life.

11. Also Known as Battle of Puebla Day

In some parts of the world, the Battle of Puebla Day is the name that rings bells. Of course, the essence of the celebration remains the same: it’s about pride, victory, and Mexican heritage at its heroic best!

12. French Victory in Second Battle

When the dust settled after the Battle of Puebla, where the Mexican forces claimed an unlikely victory, the French didn’t just pack up and go home. They were planning a comeback.

In a gripping sequel to the 1862 showdown, the French army, bigger than before, returned not just to challenge but to topple. Under a new commander, they laid siege to Puebla for months and marched right into Mexico City.

13. Traditional Mexican Dances Featured

When you’re amidst Cinco de Mayo festivities, you can expect the vibrant rhythms of the Jarabe Tapatío, also known as the Mexican Hat Dance. This folk dance is a symbol of national pride and is performed wearing elaborate traditional costumes that add to the visual spectacle.

In this spirited dance, dancers express their joy and energy, often in a display that involves a man wooing a woman, reflecting the essence of Mexican culture.