Cinco De Mayo in Los Angeles
by In Los Angeles, a city with a large number of residents of Mexican decent, Cinco de Mayo holds a special significance. According to Microsoft’s Encarta Encyclopedia, more Mexicans live in Los Angeles than in any city besides Mexico City, and the Mexican community makes up almost 80% of the Hispanic population in the L.A. region.
The Fiesta Broadway Street Fair
This annual festival in celebration of Cinco de Mayo takes place on the last Sunday of April in downtown Los Angeles. 2009 marked the 20th anniversary of the popular event. The organizers of this lively street party have called the Fiesta the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the world, and one of the biggest Hispanic events in the United States. Spanning 24 square city blocks and drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors, many dressed in the red, white and green of the Mexican flag, this free open-air festival features live Latin music on three stages, as well as sponsor booths, free samples and giveaways, traditional ethnic food and other entertainment and festivities.
Olvera Street
Part of the scenic El Pueblo de Los Angeles district in downtown L.A., Olvera Street features several historic buildings including the Avila Adobe, the city’s oldest house, which was built in 1818. The Mexican style Olvera street marketplace, now a famous tourist attraction, is a popular place to shop for traditional souvenirs, unique clothing and handcrafted gifts, or dine on authentic Mexican cuisine like taquitos, churros and guacamole. There is also outdoor entertainment, such as performances by musicians and dancers in the plaza. The charming, Mexican themed area of Los Angeles is a great place to celebrate the May 5th holiday, with traditional music, customary food and beverages, Mariachis, folk dancing, piñatas, educational and cultural workshops, historical information, a display of Mexican dresses and activities for the children.
The Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena Festival
This yearly event in recognition of Cinco de Mayo takes place just south of the Sports Arena and is presented by the Hispanic Univision Radio. Free of charge and lasting all day long, the festival includes live music performances by several bands.
Other Cinco de Mayo Events
The Los Angeles area boasts a large number of Mexican restaurants and bars. Many hold special events and celebrations for Cinco de Mayo, as well as serving authentic Mexican dishes and customary drinks such as Margaritas, coolers and Tequila.
Image via Wikipedia
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