Cinco de Mayo might commemorate Mexico’s 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla but, in the U.S., it’s blossomed into a nationwide celebration of Mexican culture.
Cities from coast to coast come alive with mariachi music, dance, parades, and, of course, incredible food.
Whether you’re traveling for the fiesta or just looking for a good excuse to enjoy a few extra tacos, these ten cities will deliver the goods – and allow you to explore a few more sights while you’re there.
San Diego, CA
San Diego knows how to throw a Cinco de Mayo party. Located right by the Mexican border, the city’s Old Town is the heart of the celebration, with over 20 Latin bands, Mariachi performances, and a folklorico dance competitions that turn the whole area into a cultural carnival. There’s no shortage of street food, colorful costumes, and live entertainment throughout the day.
After you dance off your tacos, you can explore the rest of what San Diego has to offer. Spend some time wandering through Balboa Park’s beautiful gardens and museums, or drive up the coast to La Jolla Cove to see some sea lions and enjoy the sweeping ocean views.
Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN
In the Midwest, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul offer a double dose of fun. The main Cinco de Mayo festivities take place in West St. Paul’s District del Sol, where a colorful parade and mock battle reenactment bring history to life. Food vendors, music, and traditional performances also add to the atmosphere.
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden or take a bike ride along the Mississippi Riverfront. If you’re into craft beer, you’ll also enjoy the Twin Cities’ plethora of craft breweries.
Phoenix, AZ
Did you know Phoenix hosts Arizona’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration? It happens right downtown with folkloric dance, food vendors, lucha libre wrestling, and a packed music lineup. Here, the energy is high, and the event draws big crowds with a mix of local and national performers. There’s an entrance fee, but it goes to a good cause: scholarships for local Latinx students.
Beyond the festival, Phoenix has a lot to offer. You can climb Camelback Mountain for insatiable desert views or take a stroll through Roosevelt Row to admire the city’s vibrant street art. Just don’t forget your sunscreen. The desert sun is far more unforgiving than the waistline on your jeans.
Portland, OR
In Portland, Cinco de Mayo has a creative twist. Since being paired with its sister city, Guadalajara, in 1983, Portland has hosted a festival that blends Oregon charm with Mexican tradition. At Tom McCall Waterfront Park, thousands of people gather for tequila tastings, artisan booths, and live music performances. There’s even a kids’ area with crafts and carnival rides.
Take time to enjoy the rest of the city, too. Portland’s food truck scene is famous for good reason. And, if you’re a reader, Powell’s City of Books is a must-visit. Then, for a few quiet moments, you can take your new book to the Japanese Garden for a peaceful retreat not too far from downtown.
Chicago, IL
In Chicago, the Cinco de Mayo action centers around the Little Village. This neighborhood springs to life with a lively parade that winds up in Douglas Park. There, you’ll find cultural displays, food stalls, and games for the whole family. With its beautiful Mexican-American community, the celebration here feels truly heartfelt.
While you’re in town, you might like to explore the nearby Pilsen neighborhood for its street murals and art galleries. Try to book a boat tour to see the city from a different angle. After that, you can top it all off with a visit to the Mexican Fine Arts Museum.
Miami, FL
Over in Miami, Cinco de Mayo fits right in with the city’s party-loving personality. South Beach becomes even more electric than usual, with restaurants and bars offering themed specials, mariachi bands, and dancing that goes well into the night. Though Miami is known more for its Cuban culture, the city’s diversity makes it a perfect place for a Latinx mash-up.
The next day, schedule some time to visit Wynwood Walls, a lovely outdoor art museum, or stroll through Little Havana on Calle Ocho. And, of course, a beach day is always a good idea. All you need to do is blend a margarita and go soak up that Florida sunshine.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is home to Fiesta Broadway, one of the biggest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the world. Held in Downtown LA along Broadway, you’ll find carnival rides, live performances, and rows of vendors serving everything from elote to churros. With so many Mexican Americans calling the city home, the cultural pride here is hard to beat.
Outside the festival, there are endless options to explore. You can walk down Olvera Street for a look at the city’s roots, or hike up to Griffith Observatory for a panoramic view of LA and the Hollywood sign. Whether you’re into museums or tacos (or both), there’s plenty to do in the City of Angels over Cinco de Mayo weekend.
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio’s Cinco de Mayo celebration is as rich and layered as its history. The Historic Market Square comes alive with mariachi music, dancing, and authentic food stalls. Then, Trader’s Village just outside the city hosts rodeo events and carnival rides. With one of the country’s largest Mexican-American populations, San Antonio knows how to celebrate the day with a full corazón.
After the party, you can walk the famous River Walk or visit the Alamo. One thing’s for sure, though: you’ll find culture and color around every corner in this Texan gem.
Denver, CO
In Denver, the Cinco de Mayo Festival at Civic Center Park lasts for two full days, drawing nearly a half a million people. There’s a parade, two music stages, and everything from salsa and mariachi, to green chili cook-offs. You’ll also find local artisans selling handcrafted goods and beautiful Mexican art.
Of course, you’ll want to be sure to stick around to explore more of the city. Take a scenic drive or a hike at the nearby Red Rocks Park. There are also oodles of breweries to explore, as well as eclectic street art in the RiNo District.
Albuquerque, NM
Last but not least, we have to give a shout-out to Albuquerque. It has an authentic take on Cinco de Mayo that highlights deep ties to Mexican and Southwestern culture. At the National Hispanic Cultural Center and South Broadway Cultural Center, you’ll find live music, folkloric dance, and traditional food. The city’s Old Town is the perfect spot to end your day with drinks and dinner.
Albuquerque is also packed with natural beauty. Take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway or explore Petroglyph National Monument to see some ancient rock carvings.
Which City Tickles Your Fancy?
Where will you call home for the weekend? You can swoon over the mariachis in Miami or sip a horchata in Portland – the choice is yours. But, Cinco de Mayo is a great excuse to hit the road and experience the many flavors of Mexican culture – no passport required.
If you are, indeed, road tripping it, come check out our extensive library of destination guides. Perhaps we can help you make a few pit stops along the way for some lasting memories. And, if all goes well, we’ll be raising a glass to you in one of these glorious cities.