Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

The Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo, or "The Fifth of May" has become a popular celebration in the U.S. Many mistake this date to be Mexico's Independence Day. But it is really a celebration of a victorious battle waged by a small Mexican Army against the giant French Empire in 1862. Known as The Battle of Puebla, this battle is famous because the odds were so great against the Mexican Army. With a small number of 4,000 unskilled men, they used their cleverness to ambush a French Army of 6,000. To do this they enlisted the help of local natives who led a stampede of cattle across a muddy battlefield, surprising their enemy. The French Army was not prepared for these conditions, giving their opponent the advantage. A few hours later, the French retreated and the Mexican Army began their celebration.

This celebration is not taken lightly by the Mexican people. When it comes to giving a party, it must be done right! The celebration in Puebla is the most impressive, with elaborate displays of local culture, but you don't have to go far to When it comes giving a must be done experience the party. Festivals are held in most U.S. cities, offering traditional cuisine, lively music and elaborate dances throughout this first weekend in May.

The festivities usually begin with a parade. Shouts of "Viva Mexico!" join an extensive array of richly decorated floats as candy and prizes are thrown to the crowds. A Latin beauty queen enjoys her throne atop a float with her court waving to the onlookers. Mariachis' horns can be heard over the crowd playing lively tunes that invite revelers to dance on the spot. The folkloric dancers swing their brightly colored dresses in unison, working the crowd to clap as they perform. Behind them, a crowd favorite: the Vaqueros, or horseman, dressed in ornate costumes with shiny buckles and large sombreros, ride their steeds who bounce eccentrically to the beat.

So kick up your heels and raise your glasses to toast the small Mexican army who, a century and a half ago, victoriously defended their country's culture and traditions, that we celebrate each year during Cinco de Mayo!

From the celebrated chef of the renowned Maya restaurants comes 125 adaptations of his most popular and innovative Mexican dishes, each
well known for its sophisticated balance of contrasting flavors. As The San Francisco Chronicle says, “One bite and diners will understand how complex and wonderful Mexican food really is!”

Cinco de Mayo Recipes
Blackberry Mojito	Isla’s Famous Margarita del Sol	Pineapple Margarita
Maya Passion	Guacamole