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Cinco de Mayo: A Quick History and Where to Celebrate in Brooklyn

Cinco de Mayo is a day of Mexican pride with a surprising history. Here’s how you can celebrate it in Brooklyn.

Often mistaken for Mexico's Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo is a widely observed Holiday across the United States and Mexico that commemorates the unlikely victory of the Mexican army over French forces during the Franco-Mexican war.

The holiday marks a significant day in Mexican history but is far more popular in the United States than Mexico.

On May 5, 1862, French General Charles de Lorencez and 6,000 troops attacked a smaller army of around 2,000 Mexican soldiers led by General Ignacio Zaragoza in Puebla de Los Angeles, Mexico. The battle lasted for nearly a day, and despite being greatly outnumbered, Mexico won! It wasn't a large battle, but it was a meaningful victory for Mexico at the time.

In Mexico, the holiday is most notably celebrated in the state of Puebla.

But why do so many Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Mexican communities across the United States have influenced and enriched American Culture by sharing their own.

Today, Cinco de Mayo has become a day of appreciation for all aspects of Mexican culture. It is celebrated with festivals featuring mariachi music, traditional Mexican food and Mexican folk dancing in cities across the U.S. with large Mexican communities.

2021 marks the 159th anniversary of the battle on Cinco de Mayo. Here are a few ways you can celebrate the holiday this year, right here in Brooklyn.

Try the "Mexican Pizza" and 75 different Tequila and Mezcal options at Tiny's Cantina in Prospect Heights

Where: Tiny's Cantina. 229 Flatbush Avenue (Between Bergen Street & Dean Street) Brooklyn, New York 11217.

When: Wednesday, May 5, 2021, 4:00pm-12:00am

Learn the true history and significance of Cinco de Mayo with a virtual discussion and performance

A Discussion and Performance about the Real History of Cinco de Mayo

Where: Zoom: 817 2124 9677

When: Tuesday, May 4, 2021, 3:00pm-4:00pm

Mingle and Network with Local Small Business owners at 333 Lounge in Prospect Heights

Cinco De Mayo Small Business Social.

Where: 333 Lounge. 333 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, New York 11217

When: Wednesday, May 5, 6:00pm-8:00pm

Enjoy Authentic Mexican Cuisine and a live DJ set at Los Pollitos III in Clinton Hill 

Where: Los Pollitos III. 499 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11205

When: Wednesday, May 5, 4:00pm-6:00pm

Have a Laugh at Eastville Comedy Club in Boerum Hill

Tough Love Comedy: Cinco de Mayo Celebration! at Eastville Comedy Club

Where: Eastville Comedy Club. 487 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11217

When: Wednesday May 5, 9:30pm-11:00pm




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