Cinco de Mayo
Definition
Cinco de Mayo, meaning 'Fifth of May' in English, commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
In the United States, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration of Mexican-American culture, featuring tacos, margaritas, mariachi music, and parades—far beyond its historical roots.
Not to be confused with Mexico's Independence Day (September 16), it's a day when history takes a backseat to happy hour.
Examples
Cada Cinco de Mayo, mi dieta se rinde ante un mar de guacamole y margaritas.
Every Cinco de Mayo, my diet surrenders to a sea of guacamole and margaritas.
En Cinco de Mayo fingimos ser historiadores mientras devoramos tacos como si hubiéramos ganado la batalla.
On Cinco de Mayo, we pretend to be historians while devouring tacos like we won the battle ourselves.
Mi plan maestro para Cinco de Mayo: sombrero gigante, salsa picante y cero remordimientos.
My master plan for Cinco de Mayo: giant sombrero, spicy salsa, and zero regrets.
Cinco de Mayo no es Día de la Independencia, pero las fiestas lo hacen sentir como una victoria nacional.
Cinco de Mayo isn't Independence Day, but the parties make it feel like a national victory.