Cinco de mayo commemorates the May 5, 1862 Battle of Puebla (Batalla de Puebla) in which Mexican troops defeated Napoleon’s French forces. A common misconception is that this holiday is the Mexican equivalent to the U.S. 4th of July/Independence Day holiday. That is not the case. Cinco de mayo is not a major holiday in Mexico, it is actually celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico.

Search here for local celebrations in the entire DC area.

Many of these celebrations are at bars. If you are under 21, celebrate cinco de mayo by going to California Tortilla. If you tell them the secret words “cinco de mayo” you will receive a coupon for a free taco on your next visit.