05/05/2026
A common myth surrounding Cinco de Mayo is that it is Mexico's Independence Day. However, Mexico's true independence day is celebrated on September 16. Instead, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the historic Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862, during the Franco-Mexican War. Despite being outnumbered, the Mexican forces under General Ignacio Zaragoza's leadership defeated the esteemed French Imperial Army. This symbolic victory played a significant role in uniting Mexican resistance and fostering national pride, even if it wasn't a conclusive turning point in the war. Fun Cinco de Mayo Food Traditions You Should Know About
What better way to get inspiration for your Cinco de Mayo ideas than a deep dive into the top 10 Cinco de Mayo foods and drinks and their history?
Molé Poblano: it is said that a nun at the Santa Rosa convent in Puebla invented this recipe in the 17th century.
Tamales: initially, this dish was only eaten on holidays, so serving it on Cinco de Mayo makes perfect sense.
Chilaquiles: traditionally a breakfast food in Mexico, chilaquiles arrived to the US as early as 1898.
Barbacoa: there’s no such thing as a universally known barbacoa. The term refers to a variety of meats that are slow-roasted over an open fire.
Carnitas: the birthplace of carnitas is still contested today, with options spanning from Michoacán to Jalisco, Hidalgo, Queretaro, or Mexico State.
Elotes: also known as Mexican street corn, this is a popular street food perfect for Cinco de Mayo.
Fish tacos: whether or not the fish taco originated in Baja California, Mexico, that’s where it took hold and proliferated north into California.
Pozole: is it a soup? Is it a stew? Both. Pozole dates back to the Aztecs and other indigenous tribes in Mesoamerica.
Margarita: did you know not all Mexican people could drink tequila? That’s because it was considered a nectar of the gods that only priests could consume.
Horchata: a delicious drink of milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, horchata is associated with Mexico, although it might have been around since the ancient Egyptians. So now that you know litle bit about 5 de Mayo, taco 'bout a good time at Dos Gordos! 🧡
