Ask anyone on the street what's happening on May 5th, and they’ll likely shout "Cinco de Mayo!" while looking for the nearest margarita. It’s a vibe. But honestly, if you think you’re celebrating Mexican Independence Day, you’ve joined the millions of people who are confidently incorrect.
What national day is May 5? Most people assume it’s a massive holiday across all of Mexico. It isn't. In the United States, it has morphed into a commercial juggernaut—a day for tacos, tequila, and questionable sombreros. Yet, the history behind it is gritty, unlikely, and actually pretty inspiring if you ignore the drink specials for a second.
Let's clear the air: May 5 is not Mexican Independence Day (that’s September 16). Instead, it commemorates the Battle of Puebla. It’s the story of a ragtag group of Mexican soldiers who, against every possible logic, beat the most powerful army in the world at the time.
The Battle of Puebla: A David vs. Goliath Moment
In 1862, Mexico was broke. Literally. After years of internal strife, the country owed a mountain of debt to European powers. While Britain and Spain eventually backed off, Napoleon III of France saw an opening. He didn't just want his money; he wanted an empire in the Americas.
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The French army was the "New York Yankees" of 19th-century warfare. They were well-equipped, elite, and hadn't lost a major battle in decades. They marched toward Mexico City, expecting a stroll in the park. But when they reached the town of Puebla, they ran into General Ignacio Zaragoza and a wildly outnumbered, poorly armed Mexican force.
It was a bloodbath for the French.
Zaragoza’s troops didn't just win; they humiliated the invaders. Even though the French eventually came back with more troops and took the city a year later, that single day—May 5—became a symbol of resistance. It proved that the "invincible" could bleed.
Why is it Huge in the U.S. but "Meh" in Mexico?
It’s weird, right? If you go to Mexico City or Guadalajara on May 5, it’s basically just another Tuesday. Banks might be closed, and there’s a parade in Puebla itself, but it’s not a national blowout.
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In the U.S., however, it’s a different story.
The holiday gained traction in California during the 1860s. Mexican-Americans saw the victory at Puebla as a win for democracy and a middle finger to the concept of European imperialism during the American Civil War. They celebrated it to honor their heritage.
Then came the 1980s.
Beer companies realized they could turn the day into a marketing goldmine. They started pouring millions into "Cinco de Mayo" campaigns. Suddenly, a niche historical anniversary became a "national day" of partying. Today, more tequila is consumed on May 5 in the U.S. than on almost any other day of the year.
It's Not Just About Tacos: Other May 5 Observations
While Cinco de Mayo hogs the spotlight, several other things are happening if you look closely at the calendar.
For instance, May 5 is also National Cartoonists Day. It honors the day the "Yellow Kid" made his debut in 1895, basically birthing the modern newspaper comic strip. If you’ve ever chuckled at a political cartoon or a Sunday funny, that’s the day to acknowledge the artists.
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There is also National Astronaut Day. This one is a big deal for space nerds because it marks the anniversary of Alan Shepard becoming the first American in space in 1961. He sat in a tiny capsule called Freedom 7 and changed history.
And for the foodies who aren't into Mexican cuisine, it’s National Hoagie Day. Whether you call it a sub, a hero, or a grinder, the hoagie is a staple of Philly culture that gets its own dedicated 24 hours of appreciation on May 5.
The Cultural Tug-of-War
There’s a lot of debate lately about how we celebrate May 5. Critics point out that "Cinco de Drinko" culture can feel a bit like caricature. It’s a fine line between celebrating a culture and reducing it to a stereotype for the sake of a half-off appetizer.
Most historians and cultural experts, like those at the Smithsonian Latino Center, suggest that the best way to honor the day is through education. Learn about the Franco-Mexican War. Acknowledge the contribution of Mexican-Americans to the fabric of the U.S.
Basically, keep the tacos—they’re delicious—but lose the fake mustaches.
How to Actually "Celebrate" May 5 Without Being Cringe
If you’re looking to mark the day with a bit more substance than just a hangover, there are better ways to do it. You don't have to be a history professor to appreciate the day.
- Support authentic businesses. Instead of a massive corporate chain, find a family-owned Mexican panaderia or restaurant.
- Read up on Ignacio Zaragoza. The guy was a hero who died of typhoid fever just months after his big win. He never even got to see the end of the war.
- Check out Chicano art. The 1960s Chicano Movement is why this holiday is so prevalent in the Southwest U.S. today. Their murals and literature are deeply tied to the "spirit" of the battle.
- Watch a documentary. There are some great pieces on the Second French Intervention in Mexico that make the "National Day" feel a lot more significant than a beer ad.
Actionable Takeaway for the Next May 5
When someone asks you "What national day is May 5?" don't just give the standard answer. Tell them it's the day a group of underdogs protected democracy in the Americas. Then, maybe go grab a hoagie or draw a cartoon, just to keep things interesting.
The real value of May 5 isn't in the discounts. It’s in the reminder that being the underdog doesn't mean you’ve already lost. Whether it’s a battlefield in Puebla or a guy strapped into a rocket in 1961, May 5 is consistently a day for people doing things everyone else thought was impossible.
Next time May 5 rolls around, try this:
- Skip the plastic sombreros.
- Visit a local museum or online archive to see how the day was celebrated in the 1860s.
- Donate to a local organization that supports Latino heritage or education.
- Acknowledge the "other" holidays. Wish a cartoonist a happy day or look up at the stars for the astronauts.
By shifting the focus from consumption to contribution, you're actually honoring the resilience that the Battle of Puebla was originally all about.