Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexicoβs Independence Day, but really, the holiday commemorates Mexicoβs victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla (Batalla de Puebla) and has become a time during which Mexican Americans celebrate their rich culture and heritage.
From the annual Cinco de Mayo parade in Southwest Detroit and We Are Culture Creatorsβ Fiesta Detroit to lucha libre wresting and a tequila festival in Royal Oak, thereβs no shortage of events happening in our area. Hereβs a look at five standouts for you to enjoy responsibly and respectfully.
59th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta
The Mexican Patriotic Committee of Metro Detroit is hosting its annual Cinco de Mayo celebration at West Vernor Highway and 21st Street all weekend long. The fiesta runs Saturday and Sunday with traditional music and cultural activities and in the past has included vendors, mariachis, and food.ΜύThe 3-mile parade on Sunday is the big draw with spectacularly decorated floats, talented performers, and more. May 4-5. No cost to view the parade; other fees may apply. Southwest Detroit area; .
Fiesta Detroit
Somos Culture Creators, a subsidiary of local collective We Are Culture Creators that services Detroitβs Latino art community, hosts several days of Cinco de Mayo events starting on Friday and leading up to the big day on Sunday. Spread across seven active areas in the Mexicantown and Bagley Street areas, this event is expected to host 75 influencers and performers, including live music across five stages; an artisan market featuring more than 100 vendors; wrestling; a beer garden; and much more. Select days May 3-5. No cost for the street fair; $15-$20 cover for the concerts. El Club, , and the surrounding area; .
Painting, Stickers & Mariachi
The Detroit Public Library is encouraging kids and families to celebrate Cinco de Mayo by coming together and creating art pieces that honor the holiday using supplies such as bric-a-brac, paint, and stickers. May 4. No cost. Detroit Public Library, Jefferson Branch, ; .
Lucha Boom
Sanctuary Fight Club teams up with We Are Culture Creators to bring an evening of lucha libre wrestling, along with ethnic food and other cultural fun, in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. The event, which is a part of the larger Fiesta Detroit, will start at 7 p.m. on May 3. $25-$75. Big Pink, ; .
Royal Oak Tequila Fest
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by exploring the agave-based Mexican spirit at this yearβs festival. Guests at the event will sample a variety of tequila brands, tequila liqueurs, crΓ¨mes, mezcals, and more alongside handcrafted margaritas and other cocktails. In addition, find taco trucks, live music, games, and shopping. May 4. $49-$69. Royal Oak Farmers Market, ; .
Click here to find Mexican-owned restaurants to support on Cinco de Mayo and all year long.
This story originally appeared in the May 2024 issue of ΒιΆΉ·¬ΊΕ Detroit magazine. To read more, pick up a copy of ΒιΆΉ·¬ΊΕ Detroit at a local retail outlet. OurΜύdigital editionΜύwill be available on May 6.Μύ
|
| Μύ |
|
