Every year on May 5, Dallas hosts a lively celebration commemorating the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla. For some, it’s a cherished family tradition to honor their ancestors. For others, it’s a chance to kick back, enjoy tacos and sip margaritas. Read more at dallaski.
History of the Mexican national holiday
On May 5, 1862, Mexican troops scored their most famous triumph by defeating Napoleon III’s French army at Puebla. Although Mexico couldn’t halt the broader French invasion, the stunning victory of just 4,000 Mexican soldiers over a larger force went down in history as one of the nation’s greatest moments.
Mexico holds its history in high regard, so one of the country’s biggest national holidays is marked with grand celebrations. Interestingly, Cinco de Mayo is often celebrated more eagerly in the United States—especially in states with large Mexican-American communities, like Texas.
On this day, cooks and culture enthusiasts whip up traditional dishes, while streets fill with music, festivals and carnivals. Events range from jalapeño-eating contests to piñata games. In some cities, festivities stretch from a couple of days to a full week.
Cinco de Mayo festival in Dallas
In Dallas, the party kicks off on May 4, with the highlight being the parade in Oak Cliff. The march starts at 9 a.m. and continues for at least a mile. It never moves too fast—hundreds of stalls line the route, selling everything from handmade crafts to Latin American goodies.
Colorful dancers in traditional attire are the parade’s main attraction. They sway to salsa, reggaeton, bachata, Latin pop and merengue, showing off the vibrancy of their culture.
After the parade, crowds head to Harwood Park. Local vendors set up booths themed around Mexican traditions. There are games and competitions for all ages, face painting for kids and a family-friendly party organized by Duncanville Collective featuring folkloric dancers.
Many Dallas eateries also tweak their menus for the holiday. El Carlos Elegante offers a special menu from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring steak and egg enchiladas, bacon omelets, French toast, ceviche, campechana, hibiscus salad and machete.
For festive drinks, head to Henry’s Majestic, where you can sample frozen hibiscus Palomas, mangonadas, boozy watermelon Tajín pops and Estrellas. These cocktails delight guests every year—not just in flavor but in price, too.
And no visit to Dallas’s Cinco de Mayo festival is complete without a margarita at Crown Block, perched atop one of the city’s tallest landmarks, Reunion Tower.