Viva Mexico’s Independence Day! (Well, not exactly…)

The fifth of May does not equal the Fourth of July. Cinco de Mayo officially happened on May 5, 1862. Mexico’s independence had already been granted on Sept. 16, 1810. The significance of Cinco de Mayo is from the victorious Battle of Puebla, which finally showed Mexico’s strength despite its independence. Following the Mexican-American War that lasted from 1846-1848, Mexico experienced some financial hardships. Benito Juárez, president at the time, asked for a two-year grace period where he would not have to pay outstanding debt to other countries. England, Spain and France did not agree. All three countries came to Mexico to fight and collect moneys but France did not leave swiftly. They stayed under Napoleon III’s orders. In 1862, the French army made its advance toward Puebla. General Ignacio Zaragoza led his less than savvy army against the dominating French. The all-day battle resulted in 500 French casualties but only 100 Mexican casualties. This allowed the Mexicans to take more control, leading to France’s eventual withdrawal. Cinco de Mayo is the anniversary of that battle where Mexico showed the French who was boss. So, sip a margarita and revel in this national Mexican holiday.

Sources: vivacincodemayo.org, clnet.ucla.net, history.com

Mestizo Louisiana Mexican Restaurant

All-day event. Parking lot closed off to house bands and local artist booths. Third annual “pimp your sombrero” and Chihuahua beauty contest. mestizorestaurant.com

Serranos Salsa Company

Featuring live music and drinks all day. serranossalsacompany.com

Superior Grill

Drink specials and a special Cinco de Mayo menu. Band to play outdoors throughout the day, including a mariachi band from Mexico. batonrouge.superiorgrill.com

La Carreta

Live music by The Issue on the new patio along with a DJ, mojitos, Casadora tequila and the Budweiser vending. carretarestaurant.com

Fernando’s Mexican Grill

A big party with mariachis and live music by The Froggies and Run Jane Run. Special guest is a Paci Fino dancing horse. fernandosmexicangrill.net