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.
Big Spring: May 3-4
Big Spring’s biggest Cinco De Mayo weekend party, the entertainment lineup for May 3 is The Brittany Oviedo Band, The Tejas Brothers, and country music legend Johnny Rodriguez.
Cleburne: May 4
Celebrate with vendors, food, mariachi, ballet folkloric, dancing horses, and live entertainment.
Denton: May 4
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.
Goliad: May 4-5
Join along and celebrate the victory of Gen. Zaragoza over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Visit with living historians and re-enactors dressed and equipped as men under the command of Gen. Zaragoza and those of the French Army and learn more about the reason behind Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
Grand Prairie: May 4-5
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with live music and great food.
Huntsville: May 4
Celebrate with live performances, food and drink vendors, Latin cuisine, dancing, arts and craft vendors, games, and family fun.
Sherman: May 4
Celebrate on Sherman’s Grayson County Courthouse Square. There is delicious food and live music.
Van Horn: May 4
Celebrate the culture and traditions of Old Mexico with food, arts and crafts, mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, and local talent. An outdoor dance concludes the celebration.
Waxahachie: May 3-4
The event features entertainers, live music, mariachis, folklorico dancers, food vendors, and arts and crafts.
