Cinco de Mayo, or the Fifth of May, is a joyous Mexican holiday that commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While it's primarily celebrated in Mexico, the holiday has gained popularity in the United States, with Hattiesburg being one of the cities that join in on the fun. If you're planning to attend a Cinco de Mayo celebration in Hattiesburg, here's what you need to know.
History of Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo has its roots in the mid-19th century, when Mexico was facing financial difficulties and was unable to pay its foreign debts. The Mexican government, led by President Benito Juárez, decided to suspend payment on its foreign debts, which led to a declaration of war by France. The French army, led by General Charles de Lorencez, invaded Mexico and occupied the city of Puebla. However, on May 5, 1862, the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the French forces at the Battle of Puebla. This victory was a significant turning point in Mexican history and has been celebrated ever since.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg
Hattiesburg is one of the many cities in the United States that celebrates Cinco de Mayo. The city has a thriving Hispanic community, and the holiday is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to come together and celebrate Mexican culture. The celebrations typically take place on the weekend closest to May 5th and feature a range of activities, including live music, delicious food, and traditional Mexican dancing.
Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg
There are several places in Hattiesburg where you can celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Some popular spots include:
The Hattiesburg National Cemetery, which hosts an annual Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music, food, and a ceremony to honor the Mexican-American veterans who have served in the US military.
The Hattiesburg Downtown Farmer's Market, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo festival with live music, food vendors, and a Mexican-themed market.
The Hattiesburg Museum of Art, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music, art exhibits, and a Mexican-themed craft fair.
Food and Drink
Cinco de Mayo is all about the food and drink, and Hattiesburg is no exception. You can expect to find a range of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Some popular spots to try include:
La Casa de Toño, a Hattiesburg institution that has been serving up delicious Mexican cuisine for over 20 years.
Los Tios, a popular Mexican restaurant that offers a range of traditional dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos.
The Hattiesburg Taco Truck, a food truck that specializes in delicious tacos and other Mexican street food.
Traditional Mexican Drinks
When it comes to drinks, Cinco de Mayo is all about the margaritas and other traditional Mexican beverages. Some popular spots to try include:
La Casa de Toño, which offers a range of margaritas, including classic, strawberry, and mango.
Los Tios, which offers a range of Mexican beers, including Corona, Modelo, and Pacifico.
The Hattiesburg Taco Truck, which offers a range of aguas frescas, including watermelon, hibiscus, and tamarind.
Traditional Mexican Music and Dance
Cinco de Mayo is all about the music and dance, and Hattiesburg is no exception. You can expect to find a range of traditional Mexican music and dance, including mariachi bands, folk dancing, and Aztec-inspired performances. Some popular spots to check out include:
The Hattiesburg Downtown Farmer's Market, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo festival with live music and dancing.
The Hattiesburg Museum of Art, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music and a traditional Mexican dance performance.
The Hattiesburg National Cemetery, which hosts an annual Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music and a traditional Mexican dance performance.
Traditional Mexican Crafts and Art
Cinco de Mayo is all about the crafts and art, and Hattiesburg is no exception. You can expect to find a range of traditional Mexican crafts and art, including pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Some popular spots to check out include:
The Hattiesburg Downtown Farmer's Market, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo festival with a Mexican-themed market.
The Hattiesburg Museum of Art, which hosts a Cinco de Mayo celebration with a traditional Mexican art exhibit.
The Hattiesburg National Cemetery, which hosts an annual Cinco de Mayo celebration with a traditional Mexican craft fair.
Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg: A Guide to the Holiday
Cinco de Mayo is a joyous holiday that celebrates Mexican culture and heritage. If you're planning to attend a Cinco de Mayo celebration in Hattiesburg, here's what you need to know:
When: The celebrations typically take place on the weekend closest to May 5th.
Where: Some popular spots to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg include the Hattiesburg National Cemetery, the Hattiesburg Downtown Farmer's Market, and the Hattiesburg Museum of Art.
What to wear: Traditional Mexican clothing, including sombreros, serapes, and maracas.
What to eat: Traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
What to drink: Traditional Mexican beverages, including margaritas and aguas frescas.
What to do: Enjoy live music, traditional Mexican dancing, and traditional Mexican crafts and art.
FAQ
Q: What is Cinco de Mayo?
A: Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
Q: Where is the best place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg?
A: Some popular spots to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Hattiesburg include the Hattiesburg National Cemetery, the Hattiesburg Downtown Farmer's Market, and the Hattiesburg Museum of Art.
Q: What is the best food to eat on Cinco de Mayo?
A: Traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Q: What is the best drink to order on Cinco de Mayo?
A: Traditional Mexican beverages, including margaritas and aguas frescas.
Q: What is the best way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
A: Enjoy live music, traditional Mexican dancing, and traditional Mexican crafts and art.
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