What is Cinco de Mayo? It is a celebration held on May 5th. It is celebrated in the United States and in Mexico, primarily in the state of Puebla, where the holiday is called El Dia de la Batalla de Puebla (The Day of the Battle of Puebla). This day commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France as the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.
Due to financial ruin in Mexico in 1861, President Benito Juarez was forced to default on his debts to European governments. As a result, France, Britain and Spain sent forces to demand reimbursement. Britain and Spain negotiated with Mexico and withdrew however, France’s well armed fleet stormed Mexico, causing them to retreat. About 6,000 French troops set out to attack Puebla, with high hopes of success. Juarez rounded up 2,000 loyal men and sent them on their way to Puebla. Mexico was led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. The outnumbered Mexicans caused the well provisioned and heavily supported French to retreat after the day long battle. When they finally retreated they had lost nearly 500 soldiers but fewer than 100 Mexicans had been killed. Although the win was not major against the French, Zaragoza’s success at Puebla represented a great symbolic victory for the Mexican government. Years later, with the help from the United States, who were in position to aid Mexico, France finally withdrew. Although Cinco de Mayo is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the Unites States, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, especially in areas with large Mexican-American populations. This day is often seen as a source of pride. A celebration is thrown to honor the Mexican ethnicity and pride! Now that we got our Cinco de Mayo history out of the way, let’s celebrate!
PartyCheap has a wide array of Cinco de Mayo party ideas to ensure your party is the best one out there! Lets start from the beginning, whether you invite a few amigos to mucho amigos, the loca
tion of the party should stand out. Decorate your pueblo with a Cinco de Mayo Sign and a Rayon Mexican Flag in the yard to show support for Mexico. Feeling more ambitious? Line your fence or railing with Chili Pepper Garland and Fiesta Whirls to get everyone in the fiesta mood. Now that our guests are in the fiesta spirit, let's get them dancing with Cinco de Mayo music and Red, White and Green Maracas! Remember to bring your Black Lace Fan ladies to keep you cool and stylish while dancing. Invite a mariachi band to get those hips moving!
Don’t forget about Cinco de Mayo traditions! Traditions include parades, parties, and Mexican folk dancing. Before going to a parade, you’ve got to look the part. Dress up in a Felt Spanish Hat or Plush Chili Pepper Hat. Do you need more than just a hat?
Go all out with the Adult Mexican Serape and Hat Costume. No party is complete without a pinata! Bring the kids along to play Cinco de Mayo party games. All the muchachos eagerly wait their turn in hopes they are the one to break open the pinata and scurry for candy,Fanci-Fetti Cactuses and Fiesta Beads that fall below. As the day turns to night, Fiesta Sting Lights hang above while a large meal is prepared called a comida. Popular Cinco de Mayo food ideas includes tacos, mole poblano and salsa. In order to make this Cinco de Mayo party complete, bring out the Margaritas and tequila! Serve your guests tasty margaritas in Cactus Margarita Glasses. Enjoy shots of tequila in Cactus Shot Glasses. Since not everyone enjoys margaritas and tequila, offer other Cinco de Mayo beverages. Fill the Inflatable Sombrero Cooler with other bottled and canned beverages.
Mark you calendars muchachos! Cinco de Mayo only happens once a year, which only means only thing..shake those maracas all night long! PartyCheap is here to assist you with all your fiestas and parties, making them a night to remember as long as you don't drink the worm!
