Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo means "Fifth of May" in Spanish. It is a holiday held every year on May 5. The day honors a big win by the Mexican army over the French army. The battle took place in a town called Puebla in 1862. Today, many people mark the day with music, food, and fun parades.

The Battle of Puebla

In 1862, France sent a strong army to Mexico. The French wanted to take over the land. On May 5, the two armies met near the city of Puebla. The Mexican army was much smaller. But the brave Mexican soldiers still won the fight. This big win made the people of Mexico very proud. That is why we remember the day each year.

How People Celebrate

Cinco de Mayo is a fun day in Mexico and the United States. People wear bright clothes and dance to happy music. They eat tasty foods like tacos, beans, and rice. Many towns have parades with horses and flags. Kids break open colorful pinatas filled with candy. Some schools teach about Mexican art and history on this day.

Fun Facts

• Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's Independence Day. That day is on September 16.
• The city of Los Angeles has one of the biggest Cinco de Mayo parties in the world.
• Mariachi bands often play music at Cinco de Mayo events.

Did You Know?

The Mexican army that won the Battle of Puebla was outnumbered two to one by the French soldiers.