West Virginia (WOAY) Cinco de Mayo is being celebrated today across parts of Mexico and the United States, but the holiday is often misunderstood.
It marks Mexico’s victory over French forces in 1862 during the Battle of Puebla, not Mexican Independence Day.
The independence holiday actually falls on September 16, 1810, marking the anniversary of the Grito de Dolores, the speech and battle cry by Roman Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla that inspired the movement that led to the country’s freedom.
On May 5, 1862, a small force led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated the French near Puebla.
The victory became a powerful symbol of resistance.
Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated most prominently in the Mexican state of Puebla, with parades and reenactments.
Here in the U.S., the holiday has grown into a broader celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, especially in cities like Los Angeles, Denver, and Washington, D.C.
Festivities often include mariachi music, traditional dancing, and popular foods like tacos, guacamole, and mole poblano.
