Cinco de Mayo Guide: Festivals, Foods, and Travel

May is a month of vibrant celebrations, including the renowned Cinco de Mayo. This annual festival occurs on May 5 in Puebla and is observed by Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and people of non-Mexican heritage. This day observes parades, folkloric dancing, food, music, and battle reenactments. Are you intrigued yet? If so, check out this blog, where we will discuss everything related to this Mexican festival as well as offer helpful travel tips.

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Why Is Cinco de Mayo Celebrated?

Many people commonly mistake Cinco de Mayo for Mexican Independence Day, which occurs on September 16 yearly. In addition to having different dates, both days commemorate two separate events. The Mexican Independence Day commemorates the start of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule in 1810. It began when Catholic priest and leader Father Hidalgo issued the “Grito de Dolores,” a call for Mexican patriots to overthrow the rule of Spain.

On the other hand, Cinco de Mayo honors the 1862 Battle of Puebla. It commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory against Napoleon III’s French troops while defending Puebla. The battle was the talk of the town since Mexican troops lacked manpower and equipment against their well-prepared enemies. Puebla residents celebrate May 5 by organizing parades, fairs, and speeches. The festival’s prominence has transcended Mexico’s borders and become part of celebrations in the US. The Mexican communities in the United States observe Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of Mexican culture.

What Not To Do On Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo invites people of all backgrounds to partake in the celebration. While primarily celebrated in the state of Puebla, it has become a broader celebration of Mexican heritage and culture in the US. If you travel to Puebla or Mexican communities in the US in May, you are welcome to watch parades, listen to mariachi bands, and enjoy dance, food, and other cultural events. That said, there are specific things you must never do as a tourist while celebrating Cinco de Mayo. They are listed below:

• Don’t confuse it with Independence Day: As mentioned earlier, Cinco de Mayo vastly differs from the Mexican Independence Day; you should never consider both events the same.
• Don’t wear costumes: Avoid cultural appropriation and stereotypes by wearing sombreros and fake mustaches. Don’t wear traditional Mexican clothing without prior knowledge of its significance.
• Don’t overindulge in alcohol: Cinco de Mayo is a celebration with delicious food and drinks, but you must never overindulge in them. Enjoy traditional drinks without using the festival as an excuse to get drunk.
• Don’t try to speak Spanish: If you are not fluent in Spanish, don’t use the language to communicate with native Spanish speakers. It may be disrespectful.

Respect is a must while participating in this Mexican celebration. To celebrate this May festival, listen to traditional Mexican music, attend parades, and eat authentic Mexican food. Also, don’t hesitate to say “Happy Cinco de Mayo” or “Feliz Cinco de Mayo,” the Spanish way of wishing someone a happy holiday. While this is acceptable in the US, you likely should not say this in Mexico.

Cinco de Mayo Food

Get ready to satisfy your craving for Mexican food on May 5. Cinco de Mayo is all about enjoying traditional Mexican dishes, such as Molé Poblano, tacos, tamales, and carnitas. Let’s learn about them below:

Molé Poblano

• Where To Eat: Mural de los Poblanos, Casa Reyna, Antigua Fonda de la China Poblana
• Price Range: $15 onwards

Did you know Puebla is the birthplace of Molé Poblano? This Mexican dish consists of dark red or brown sauce served over meat. It is slightly different from black mole, which is more intense in flavor. Mole Poblano has many ingredients, including chili peppers, chocolate, cloves, plantains, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and cinnamon sticks. The result is a mix of flavors, from earthy to nutty, sweet, fruity, and bitter. Since it’s a Pueblan dish, it’s only befitting for you to try this unique dish on Cinco de Mayo.

Carnitas

• Where to Eat: Carnitas Los Arcos, Carnitas El Retiro, Cemitas la Colonial
• Price Range: 15 to 40 pesos

If you are a pork lover, you are in for a treat with Carnitas. This classic Mexican dish features pork (usually pork shoulder) braised in lard or other cooking oil and mixed with various seasonings and aromatics, such as garlic, onions, cinnamon, bay leaves, and chili powder. The meat is slow-cooked in lard until it can be shredded into tiny pieces. As such, this dish also goes by “little meats.” After shredding, chefs usually fry pork till it’s golden brown and crispy.

Pozole

• Where To Eat: Pozolería Matamoros, El Viejo Rosario
• Price Range: 50 to 100 pesos

Warm up your tummy with delicious Pozole on May 5. This traditional dish is a staple for celebrations and special occasions, such as Cinco de Mayo. It features meat, usually pork and chicken, and sometimes beef or seafood, which is usually braised in a broth or sauce. Its other core ingredient is horming, a type of maize. The result is a meat-and-hominy-based stew, which is super delicious and nutritious.

Guacamole

• Where to Eat: La Casa del Mendrugo, Casa Barroca, El Mural de los Poblanos
• Price Range: $2.95 onwards

Cinco de Mayo food is not all about meat; it also features vegan dishes such as Guacamole. This plant-based dish primarily uses ripe avocados that are peeled and mashed into a paste. It is then mixed with lime juice, salt, cilantro, onions, and tomatoes. If you want non-vegan options, add sour cream or cheese to the Guacamole. Enjoy this avocado-based dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burgers, and sandwiches. You can also spread it on toast or in salads and omelets.

Tamales

• Where To Eat: Tamales y Atoles “Lupita” del Parian, Fonda de Santa Clara
• Price Range: 18 to 20 pesos

Mexican cuisine has many corn-based dishes, including Tamales. This dish features masa, a dough made from nixtamalized corn. The corn is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaves and filled with meats (chicken or pork), vegetables, cheeses, beans, chilies, herbs, or fruits. Tamales might taste sweet, spicy, or savory, depending on the fillings. They will also have a crumbly feel with a corn taste.

Mexican Street Corn

• Where To Eat: Maiz Criollo, Comal, Antigua Taqueria la Oriental
• Price Range: MX$49

Corn-based dishes like tamales will only whet your appetite for the real deal. Mexican Street Corn is one such good snack that will leave you craving more. It features grilled corn coated with creamy mayo and topped with chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime. The result is a brilliant street food with a smoky, sweet, and creamy flavor. You can have it as a snack or enjoy it as a side dish for potlucks.

Street Tacos

• Where To Eat: Mural de los Poblanos, Tacos Chingones- Saborcito Corazón, Porfirio’s Puebla
• Price Range: 8 to 35 pesos

You can never go wrong with tacos at any Mexican festival. This is a must-have food regardless of any fiesta. From grilled chicken tacos to tacos al Pastor and fish tacos, you will have many options. Tacos are more than their delectable flavors; their history and cultural significance make them stand out among other Mexican dishes. Taco was a staple meal before the Spanish invasions, when ancient Mexicans used freshly made, soft, flat corn tortillas with fish or cooked organ fillings. It was nutritious and filled your stomach in no time.

Best Tours In Puebla

Discover the vibrant city of Puebla with these highly-rated tours. These activities offer an insight into the town’s history, heritage, and culture.

Free Tour of Puebla

• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Price: $0.00~
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

What could be better than a free offer? This 2.5-hour Free Tour of Puebla offers a chance to discover the city’s monumental heritage. The tour begins at Puebla Town Square, where you will explore the links between Mexico and Europe. You will pass by renowned attractions like the Puebla Cathedral, Palafoxiana Library, El Parián, Alley of the Frogs, Rosary Chapel, and Santa Domingo Church. The best part about this free activity is an English-speaking guide who will entertain you by sharing facts about everything you come across.

Africam Safari Park Trip

• Duration: 6 hours
• Price: $27.50~
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Get ready for a full-day Africam Safari Park Trip from Puebla. The Africam Safari Zoo is half an hour south of Puebla and features 25,000 exotic animals of 300 species, including elephants, giraffes, rhinos, anteaters, meerkats, and red pandas. You can explore the zoo at your own pace, learning about the animals and taking pictures along the way. This one-of-a-kind experience is ideal for those searching for family-friendly activities in Puebla.

Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park Hike

• Duration: 7 hours
• Price: $119.67~
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

If you are outdoorsy, this Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park Hike is just for you. This 7-hour activity includes following a hiking route from the parking lot of La Joyita. You will follow the Ruta de los Portillos path and encounter stunning views of the park’s two volcanoes, Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl. You will also come across many local wildlife species, such as coyotes, deer, lizards, and badgers. This guided hike also includes lunch with a delicious quesadilla and a hot drink.

Delicious Culinary Tour in Puebla

• Duration: 5 hours
• Price: $50.26~
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Embark on this 5-hour Delicious Culinary Tour in Puebla. This half-day tour covers the city’s most popular food markets and local restaurants. You will sample fifteen different dishes, including succulent tamales and crispy quesadillas. An expert guide will accompany the participants throughout the journey, providing details about Puebla’s history and culture. Since this is a small-group activity with only fifteen people, expect personalized attention from your guide.

Atlixco & Chipilo Tour

• Duration: 6 hours
• Price: $115.39~
• Ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Free Cancellation

Finally, we have the 6-hour Atlixco & Chipilo Tour, which combines sightseeing with food tasting. This Civitatis offer takes visitors to Atlixco, one of Mexico’s famous Magic Towns (Pueblos Mágicos). You will explore the city’s historic center and admire the murals of the Municipal Palace. You will also try Atlixco’s chocolate, artisan bread, and ice cream. Later, you will visit Chipilo’s cheese factory to try Chipilo cheese with wine. This tour covers the cost of all food tastings.

Where To Stay In Puebla?

Visitors’ biggest concern while traveling to Puebla is finding the right accommodation. The best area to stay in the town is the historic center, a hub for renowned attractions, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife. Las Animas, Angelópolis, La Vista, and Cholula are other favorable areas with many pros. Here, we have handpicked the top hotels in these neighborhoods.

Cartesiano Boutique & Wellness Hotel

We begin our list with the luxurious Cartesiano Boutique & Wellness Hotel. It is in the heart of the Centro Histórico near many attractions. This property stands out with its avant-garde architecture, fusing the 18th and 19th-century mansions with art, luxury, and tradition. This is evident in its spacious rooms and suites, where modernity and history are merged exceptionally. Each accommodation offers a new experience with decor, design, and in-room amenities.

Comfortable lodging is only part of the Cartesiano Boutique & Wellness Hotel. It features five-star amenities, including an award-winning spa. The Spa Cartesiano offers relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials, exclusive wraps, wellness rituals, and unique treatments. Furthermore, the hotel features two unique and distinctive culinary spaces serving traditional and modern Mexican and international cuisine. Comedor 360 is already operating, while Custodia Restaurante will launch a new edition in May 2025.

Hotel Boutique Casareyna

Enjoy a luxury experience at Hotel Boutique Casareyna. Set in a charming 17th-century house with a touch of modernity, this property offers the best of both worlds. Its courtyards and event halls are adorned by ruin walls of the 16th and 17th centuries. Likewise, forty-six luxury suites have beautiful, modern decor and many amenities, such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, blackout curtains, and private bathrooms.

This five-star hotel is ideal for honeymooning couples. It offers unforgettable moments with its romantic dinner and romantic night. The intimate dinner will feature a three-course dinner à la carte, private space, and decoration with petals and candles. Furthermore, the on-site spa offers a relaxing experience with therapies, holistic massages, and facials. Not just a honeymoon experience, you can have your dream wedding at the property. You can choose the venue from the multiple options available.

Palacio Julio Hotel

Experience Puebla’s colonial artistic heritage at Palacio Julio Hotel. Two late 17th-century palaces have been merged to create this unique boutique hotel in a prime location in the historic center. It is near many attractions, including the Cathedral, Santo Domingo, and the Rosary Chapel. Likewise, the Los Sapos neighborhood is only a three-minute walk away, while Cholula is within a half-hour driving distance.

This boutique hotel features elegant accommodations with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, soundproofing, private bathrooms, and city views. It features uniquely named suites such as the Cinco de Mayo Suite San Francisco, Family Department Cathedral Suite, Junior Suite Company, Luxe, Special Petite Blue, and Julio Basic Palace. Moreover, the property offers meeting rooms and banquet venues for meetings and special celebrations. Each venue has unique decorative styles and ambiance.

Grand Fiesta Americana Puebla Angelópolis

Next, Grand Fiesta Americana Puebla Angelópolis is set in Puebla’s most contemporary tower. Its prime location in the heart of Angelópolis makes it ideal for business and leisure travelers. You can easily access shopping centers, restaurants, and bars from the hotel premises. In addition, the Estrella de Puebla, a gigantic panoramic Ferris wheel, is only a short distance away.

This five-star property features luxurious rooms with contemporary decor and furnishings. Each unit has floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning cityscape views, Smart HD TVs, Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a coffee maker. Enhance your stay by booking the Fiesta Club rooms, which offer personalized services and access to the Grand Club Lounge. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a spa, private parking, a 24-hour fron desk, on-site restaurants, and a rooftop bar.

Hilton Garden Inn Puebla Angelopolis

Finally, the Hilton Garden Inn Puebla Angelopolis is among the five-star-rated hotels in Puebla. It is in the Angelópolis district, one of the city’s top areas to stay. This property is near culture, entertainment, and retail spaces, including the Angelopolis Mall, the University Cultural Complex Auditorium, and the Estrella de Puebla Ferris Wheel. You can check in after exploring these attractions or vice versa.

This Hilton hotel features non-smoking rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and coffee machines. Each room offers stunning mountain, city, or inner courtyard views. Guests can access the outdoor pool and the fitness center throughout their stay. They can also drop by the on-site Restaurante Villa Rica for sumptuous seafood.

As you can see, Cinco de Mayo is a significant spring event with a deep history. Surprisingly, it is not a federal holiday in Mexico, but is widely celebrated in the US. The grand celebration occurs mostly in Puebla, with little to no events in other Mexican regions. Nonetheless, visitors traveling to Puebla or Mexican communities in the US on May 5 will get the opportunity to see lively local parades and street events and indulge in Mexican delicacies.