Beyond Margaritas: What Cinco de Mayo Actually Commemorates

Every May 5th, bars and restaurants across the United States fill with people celebrating Cinco de Mayo over tacos and themed drinks. But the holiday's true origin story — a contrete military engagement in 1862 — often gets overshadowed by the commercial festivities. Members of Cloudflare's Latinflare Employee Resource Group, which spans the US, UK, and Portugal, offer their perspectives on what the day means both in Mexico and abroad.

The Battle of Puebla

Cinco de Mayo marks the anniversary of the Mexican Army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Under the command of General Ignacio Zaragoza, the smaller Mexican force defeated a larger French contingent — a morale-boosting win for Mexico. Zaragoza himself died of illness just months after the battle. The following year, a larger French force prevailed at the Second Battle of Puebla, and Mexico City fell to the invaders soon after.

Cinco de Mayo - What are we celebrating anyway? Embedded Image - SLpmUm

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has grown into something much bigger than its origins. Celebrations first began in California in 1863, and the day became nationally popular in the 1980s, driven largely by beer and wine advertising campaigns. Today, Cinco de Mayo drives beer sales comparable to the Super Bowl. In Mexico itself, the commemoration remains largely ceremonial — marked by military parades and battle reenactments. The day is frequently confused with Mexico's Independence Day, which actually falls on September 16th.

Perspectives from Latinflare Members

Alonso — Cloudflare London

Growing up in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo was mostly a bank holiday — a day off from school or work. Holidays like Día de la Independencia got the fireworks and big celebrations. For a long time, Alonso didn't understand why his US-based friends would text him "Happy Cinco." Hearing how the Hispanic community in the US has elevated the day into a celebration of heritage across Latin America has been eye-opening. "So from all our friends at Latinflare, I wish you a very happy Cinco!"

Salvador — Cloudflare Austin

Around seven years ago, while still living in Guadalajara, Salvador remembers American colleagues asking how he planned to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. His reaction: "That's not a Mexican holiday!" He had to Google it to explain the Battle of Puebla back to them. The day is a major holiday primarily in Puebla, the central Mexican state where the battle happened. Now living in the US, he views it as a great excuse to share authentic Mexican food with friends.

Ricardo — Cloudflare Austin

Ricardo points out the persistent misconception that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day — it is not. For him, growing up in Mexico meant a day off from school. In the US, however, it has become a day to celebrate Hispanic heritage.

Alex — Cloudflare Austin

Alex notes that Mexican families outside of Puebla may not be very aware of Cinco de Mayo. His own middle school in Ojocaliente, Zacatecas was named "Gral. Ignacio Zaragoza" after the general who led the victory in 1862. "This only made me try to be extra friendly to any French person that I've met." Despite the confusion around the holiday, he doesn't have the heart to ruin anyone's party.

Celebrating at Home

For those looking to observe the day while staying in, several outlets have published ideas for celebrating Cinco de Mayo at home:

The Latinflare Employee Resource Group, which got its start with members across the US, UK, and Portugal, originally planned dip contests and margarita-making happy hours to recognize the day. In a work-from-home world, they shifted to celebrating virtually instead. Their key takeaway: whatever your experience with the holiday, the day has become an opportunity to share and celebrate Latin American culture.