Next Thursday, we celebrate Cinco de Mayo. While you can find a fiesta in Old Town, the holiday is about more than tacos + margaritas — it also has cultural significance.

The holiday remembers Mexico's victory in the Battle of Puebla against the French forces of Napoleon III on May 5, 1862. It was one battle during the Second Franco-Mexican War — the French didn’t retreat until 1867 — but the day symbolizes resistance against foreign powers.

Celebrate in San Diego

Being a border city, Mexican culture runs deep in San Diego — from art to food. If you’re looking to observe the occasion, we’ve rounded up some great local celebrations with plenty to do and eat. ¡Buen provecho!

Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo 2022 | Sat., April 30- Sun., May 1 | 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | San Diego Avenue between Twiggs + Conde Streets | Free | A celebration with food + drink specials, live entertainment, and plenty of shopping in the historic heart of San Diego. 🇲🇽
Cinco de Mayo Celebration | Sun., May 1 | 12-2 p.m. | Rustic Ridge Vineyards in Jamul | $12.95 | Sip wine while enjoying Mexican cuisine at this East County winery. 🍷
Yappy Hour | Wed., May 4 | 4-7 p.m. | Ponce’s Mexican Restaurant, 4050 Adams Ave. | Free | Bring your dog for Cinco de Mayo treats + photographs with $55 VIP tickets. 🐶
Cinco de Mayo 5K | Thurs., May 5 | 11:15 a.m-1:15 p.m. | Naval Medical Center 34800 Bob Wilson Dr. | Donation-based | Run or walk this course, then celebrate with virgin margaritas, music + dancing. 👟
Cinco de Mayo Sunset Sail | Thurs., May 5 | 5 p.m. | Maritime Museum of San Diego | $95+ | Live music + Mexican appetizers aboard a cruise on the replica of the San Salvador. 🛳️
Cinco de Mayo Cruise | Thurs., May 5 | 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. | Bahia Resort Hotel | $40 | Cruise Mission Bay with music, drinks + festive snacks. ⛴️
Cinco de Mayo Festival | Sun., May 8 | 11 a.m. | Grape Day Park, Escondido | Free | A day of family fun with food + live entertainment. 🎉