Many Americans often think Cinco de Mayo is the Independence Day of our friends south of the border. In actuality, only one Mexican state celebrates the day. In 1862, during the Franco-Mexican War, Puebla won an important battle. France had 6,000 troops, and Mexico had 2,000. Though their army was more petite, Mexico’s victory represents the power and resilience of the Mexican people. This day is widely celebrated in the US for pride in Mexican-American culture. Whether you want to share Cinco de Mayo with your kids or have an excuse for a hot date, quite a few events are happening in Austin, TX, this week.
Celebrating with Kids:
As a child, I had the privilege to travel around the world with my flight attendant mother. Hearing other languages, eating diverse food, and learning about non-American celebrations opened my mind and gave me perspective. Austin is a vibrant city with so much culture. Here are a few ways you can help your kids experience and learn about Cinco de Mayo:
H-E-B FREE FIRST SUNDAY | 10-5 | Bullock Museum
Enjoy FREE exhibition admission all day during H-E-B Free First Sundays, held the first Sunday of every month. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a dance performance, and hands-on activities.
Meanwhile Brewing Free Concert
We love Meanwhile every day of the year for their kid-friendly vibes. The Columbia Movement will be playing a FREE concert for Cinco de Mayo beginning at 6 pm.
Cinco de Mayo Bash | 12-3 | Doc’s Backyard Grill
Mariachi Band from 12-3pm (and of course margaritas!)
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta | Until 6pm | Armadillo Den
Until 6 pm the kids will love the pinata, Tajano band, and more. For the grown ups there will be lots of specials on margaritas, tequila, and food trucks.
Host a party of your own with friends or family— FluentU put together a robust list of ideas.
Z’Tejas Cinco de Mayo Specials | 14900 Avery Ranch, Blvd B100 Austin, TX 78717
Join us at Z’Tejas for an unforgettable Cinco de Mayo celebration! Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our special $5 margaritas and $5 Mexican beers available from 3-5 p.m. Savor every sip and embrace the festive atmosphere as we pay homage to Mexican culture and heritage. Whether you’re craving zesty tacos, savory enchiladas, or simply seeking a lively ambiance, Z’Tejas is the place to be this Cinco de Mayo.
Visit the Mexican American Cultural Center— they have exhibits, gorgeous outdoor space, and more.
Celebrate with Adults:
We always need an excuse for a date or mom’s night out. Here are a few events happening in Austin on Cinco de Mayo that may interest you:
Offering unobstructed views of Austin and beyond, the 20th-floor rooftop restaurant will have a DJ from 2-5pm and specialty tequila cocktails from partner 21 Seeds. 21 Seeds offers delicious infused tequilas like cucumber jalapeño, valencia orange and grapefruit hibiscus. The event is free and open to the public from 11AM – 5PM.
The event will feature a DJ set by Ben Green from 1-5pm, giveaways with exciting prizes, and of course, gorgeous views of the Austin skyline. There will be four speciality cocktails from Dos Hombres Mezcal and Dulce Vida Tequila available for purchase as well as sun-inspired cocktails and light bites. Tickets to the event are available online for $15 and include access to the pool from 12pm to sunset.
Now you know that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day–that’s on September 16. These suggestions provide a way to educate your children, family, and friends about the origins of this holiday. Whether you opt to learn, create, eat, drink, laugh, dance, or sing, you will surely bring the heart of Mexican culture to life. As Selena Quintanilla said, “All I need to do is try and do the best that I can do.” I’m sure your family, friends, or significant other will be happy to share time and tacos with you, mama.
