How Do You Say Happy Cinco De Mayo In Spanish?

Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for “the fifth of May,” is observed mostly in the United States. Despite its roots in Mexico, it’s mostly ignored within that country. North of the border, on the other hand, Cinco de Mayo has come to symbolize Chicano pride and unity.  On this day, both Latinos and non-Latinos celebrate Mexican culture, including food, music, and margaritas. Sometimes compared to another boozey holiday, St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo is included on Time’s list of the Top 10 Drunkest Holidays.

This year, in particular, some are using the day to call attention to Arizona’s immigration law. A group called Americans for America released anti-GOP radio ads targeting politicians who support the bill. From The Huffington Post:

    The ad against McCain is most memorable (and satirical) of the bunch. Set to the scene of Cinco de Mayo fraternity party crashed by over-zealous Arizona State troopers, it is designed to appeal to University of Arizona students, who have already been impacted by the new law.

    “We have reasonable suspicion to believe you are illegal aliens,” a cop declares in the ad. “You are listening to Mexican music, drinking Mexican drinks, and speaking Spanish.”

Although many people think that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day, that holiday actually falls on September 16 (It’s called El Grito de la Independencia, or “Cry of Independence”). May 5 commemorates the the nation’s unlikely victory at the 1862 Battle of Puebla, where the outnumbered and ill-equipped Mexican militia defeated invading French forces. (France eventually occupied Mexico a year later, but the victory is still impressive).

Like other holidays, Cinco de Mayo has become commercialized, as companies try to cash in on the Latino market. (Nike, for example, has unveiled their Cinco de Mayo tribute shoe in Mexico’s national colours.) But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the day. Here are some ways that people are celebrating Cinco de Mayo:

    * U.S. President Obama will host an evening reception in the White House’s Rose Garden
    * The 26th annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, one of the largest May 5 events in the world, takes place in Portland, Oregon
    * Tequila tastings, called Agavefest, are held in New York City and Tuscon, Arizona