Cinco de Mayo celebrations commemorate the Mexican victory over the French army during the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862. It has become a Mexican equivalent of St. Patrick's Day with colorful celebrations all over the U.S. including New Orleans. Many Mexican clubs, restaurants, and bars host Cinco de Mayo promotions and special events. New Orleans knows how to party, and Cinco de Mayo has all the proper ingredients for a perfect fiesta.
The City of Kenner, a suburb of New Orleans, holds Celebración Hispana de Kenner in Laketown. Kenner Cinco de Mayo Fest is a free family-friendly event, featuring live bands, dance performances, arts, and crafts. In the evening, there are food and drinks and plenty of activities for kids like the pounding of the piñata.
Other interesting Cinco de Mayo events include The Velvet Cactus Fiesta with a full day of food, music, and drinks. Bands and DJs perform starting at 5 p.m. Los Jefes Grill Cinco de Mayo Block Party is a block party with face painting, photo booths, and a taco-eating contest. Cinco de Mayo Festival at El Paso Metairie features live music, entertainment, and delicious Mexican food and beverages. Casa Borrega features salsa, merengue, and other Latin style dances at Casa Borrega's Cinco de Mayo street party at 6 p.m., followed by a concert.
Felipe's celebrates Cinco de Mayo at three of its locations across New Orleans—the Mid-City, Uptown, and the French Quarter.
