Celebrate Cinco de Mayo In Style
May 5th may be a Monday, but that doesn't have to stop you from celebrating Cinco de Mayo in style this year!
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo
Flickr - --Mark--
The History of Cinco de Mayo
The mistake most people make regarding Cinco de Mayo is to think that it is a celebration for Mexico's independence. In fact, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the victory (over the French) of the Battle of Puebla which happened on - you guessed it - May 5 in 1862. Crazy to think we're still celebrating a battle won over 150 years ago!
Flickr - San Diego City College So, why do we still celebrate it? That fact remains to be seen because, in most of Mexico, Cinco de Mayo celebrations aren't typical. Here in America (especially California) we don't need a good reason for a party though, so celebrate on!
Throw A Traditional Party
Decorations
Like this colorful street in Mexico, a great way to get your Cinco de Mayo celebration off the ground is with some authentic (or close enough) flags. You can find them at local party supply stores or you can make your own. This is a great activity to get your children in on by having them cut out snowflake-like designs on rectangular pieces of paper.
Flickr - Alan
Drinks & Food
Really, what is a good party with out the food? This is a great time to get a little fancy by trying out new recipes or, if you aren't a fan of cooking, to cater through your favorite Mexican restaurant. Suggested traditional Mexican foods and drinks for Cinco de Mayo are:- Tamales
- Chiles Rellenos
- Mole Sauce
- Authentic Mexican tortillas
- Home made chips
- Home made Pico de gallo
- Margaritas
- Horchata
Flickr - Debora is Lola
Activities & Gifts
When throwing a great party, having games planned in advance (even if you don't end up playing them) can make the difference between a boring party and something your friends will be talking about for the next six months. Try your local party supply store or check out Amazon for some great gift ideas that you can send your guests home with to remember your memorable and stylish Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Flickr - Darla Dietz Toss up a piñata - the kids (and let's be honest, the adults too) will love it! 
Flickr-giveawayboy Get the family together and visit a traditional Mexican celebration. Check your local news website for celebrations near you. 
Flickr - Bisayan lady
The Sounds of Cinco de Mayo
Last, but definitely not least, the music of the event must be traditional. For some of you who like to spare no expense, that means hiring your very own mariachi band! For the rest of us, that means picking the right Pandora station to set the mood. Either way, you better be blaring the rhythmic guitar and blaring trumpet sound that mariachi bands are best known for!
Flickr - oklanica
