Cinco de Mayo in San Diego 2024

Every year over 100,000 people gather in Old Town San Diego for a weekend celebration of all things Mexican. During three days, the city center is transformed into a colourful Mercado full of crafts and souvenirs, non-stop live music and entertainment, a famous Lucha Libre wrestling, and a massive display of lowrider autos.

Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo hosts over 40 bands playing in various genres on the Café Coyote Stage: from Mariachi, Latin rock, and Norteña to Conjunto Jarocho and Banda Sinaloense. Ballet Folklorico Competition showcases folk ballet tradition of Mexico with two-day performances at the State Historic Park.

One of the major attractions of Cinco de Mayo is the iconic Lowrider Lane on Twiggs Street that showcases over 20 skilfully crafted lowrider autos with unique paintings and car modifications. It's definitely a crowd favourite at the celebration. Every year the visitors can see a new display and vote for their favourite four-wheeled vehicle or motorcycle that compete for People’s Choice Award during the O’Reilly awards ceremony.

Lucha Libre matches take place in the Lucha Libre Cantina on San Diego Avenue between Harney and Twiggs. Also, that's where visitors can see the biggest fiesta action and its rowdiest entertainment. Enjoy close up views of Lucha Libre wrestling while sipping your cerveza or margarita. The annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo also provides free activities for children: arts and crafts, workshops and face painting.

Another great Cinco de Mayo celebration happens in Balboa Park. The community-driven program includes a full day of music and dance performances, activity booths showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Mexico, and arts and crafts. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of Mexican foods from some of the city’s best food trucks.