Cinco De Mayo Today: What Is It?
Sunday has arrived with Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for "fifth of May," and thousands of people are celebrating.
The Mexican holiday is primarily celebrated in the state of Puebla, Mexico; where it is known as El Dia de la Batalla de Puebla, or The Day of the Battle of Puebla.
However, Cinco de Mayo traditions are also observed in the United States.
The holiday commemorates the cause of freedom and democracy during the beginning of the American Civil War.
In America, May 5th sees Mexican-Americans celebrating their Mexican heritage and pride.
It is important to note that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's Independence Day, which is the most important national patriotic holiday in Mexico on Sept. 16.
Cinco de Mayo celebrations originated in many communities in the American West, Southwest and Northwest, but they have grown in popularity and reach across the U.S. today.
Celebrations of the holiday include the serving of Mexican food and drinks and displaying banners that are drawn from traditional Mexican symbols. Also, many schools hold special events to educate students about its historical significance.
Examples of popular Mexican food recipes often used in the U.S. are guacamole, salsa, refried beans, and spiced meats such as carnitas or chorizo.
Other proceedings on Cinco de Mayo highlight Mexican culture, especially its music and dancing.
Windsor, Canada, London, Paris and the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean and many other locations across the globe also celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
Twitter was abuzz with users sounding off about their Cinco de Mayo celebrations, causing holiday to become a trending topic on the social media site today.
"The backyard it finally finished & ready for Cinco de Mayo Bash," wrote Pepper.
"Happy Cinco de Mayo," posted Matthew. "This will be the 9th day in a row with above average temps. w/ sunshine. More on the way!"
Russell added, "Happy Cinco de Mayo to all my Mexican and Mexican-American brothers and sisters."
