Cinco de Mayo in San Marcos (photo by Kevin Stillman)
Across the Lone Star state, cities are gearing up to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with parades, live mariachi music, traditional Mexican foods, and more. The holiday—which commemorates Mexico’s unlikely victory over invading French forces during the Battle of Puebla in 1862—is an integral part of the culture of Texas, which was once part of Mexico from 1821-1836. While the meaning of the holiday these days can easily be lost (our neighbors to the south primarily commemorate the battle through military ceremonies), Texans use the day to celebrate Mexican-American culture. Find an event near you below.
Cleburne: May 6
Enjoy the day with vendors, food, mariachi bands and other live music, dancers, and more.
Denton: May 6
This free Hispanic festival celebrates diversity in the Denton community and kicks off with a 10 a.m. parade. Activities include live entertainment, various food and beverage vendors, arts and crafts, and children’s activities.
Flatonia: May 6
The city celebrates with arts and crafts, food, dancers, and a car/truck show.
Fort Stockton: May 6
Celebrate the culture and traditions of Old Mexico with food and live music in James Rooney Memorial Park.
Grand Prairie: May 6
Live music and other entertainment help celebrate Hispanic culture.
Huntsville: May 6
The day includes live performances, food and drink vendors, Latin cuisine, dancing, arts and crafts, games, and family fun.
Lubbock: May 6
The fifth annual parade honors the city’s cultural heritage and ethnic diversity.
San Antonio: May 5-7
In the past, this festival has drawn more than 50,000 visitors to Market Square. Enjoy the weekend here, where more than three blocks are filled with handcrafts and apparel, live music, heritage performances, and plenty of authentic food.
Texas City: May 6
Enjoy a traditional celebration at Nessler Park with mariachis, ballet folklorico dancers, a parade, traditional food, and more.
Van Horn: May 6
Van Horn City Park offers food, arts and crafts, mariachi bands, folklórico dancers, and local talent.
Victoria: May 6
Head downtown for music, contests, and family-oriented traditions, featuring Hispanic foods, crafts, and entertainers from the Texas Gulf Coast.
Waxahachie: May 5-6
Entertainment downtown includes live music, mariachis, folklorico dancers, food vendors, and arts and crafts.
