Cinco de Mayo is dedicated to Mexico’s triumph over French forces. May 5th is a popular reason for people throughout the United States to celebrate this historical triumph. Here is a list of events where you get your Cinco de Mayo celebration on.
Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival
This festival is the largest celebration in Phoenix. This celebration is an annual tradition and has been happening for 26 years. It attract over 3 million attendees. There will be lucha libre (wrestling), baile folklorico (Mexican dancing) and a lot of amazing food to choose from. The music will include the Grammy nominated War playing their songs “Lowrider” and “The Cisco Kid.” General Admissions tickets are $10. Doors open at noon.
Old Town Scottsdale’s Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl
Looking for an unique way to celebrate? Spend the holiday drinking around Old Town at Scottsdale’s finest including Goodwood Tavern, El Hefe, Riot House and Wasted Grain. There will be deals with Lyft and GrubHub accompanying the event. Post your photos on Facebook or Instagram to win a prize. This event takes place the day before Cinco de Mayo on May 4.
Sandbar Mexican Grill
This restaurant has three locations to choose from: Gilbert , Desert Ridge, and Chandler. This festive food venue brings the beach scene to Arizona. You can play a variety of games, while indulging in tasty food and beverages.
Sol Mexican Cocina
Live music will be featured at this restaurant on both May 4 and 5. However, the drinks and taco specials only run on May 5th. This restaurant offers a large selection of margaritas, with flavors like cucumber jalapeno or blackberry ginger, and specialty cocktails, like their pineapple and vanilla infused tequila available as a martini or shot – there’s something for everyone! Reservations are strongly recommended.
Cinco de Mayo and Chili Cook Off
Sedona’s Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village will host a multitude of events on May 4. The celebration consists of flamenco dancing, Latin music and a performance by a folklorico dance troupe. For the kids, they can have fun with piñatas and face painting. These festivities are free and run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Chili Cook Off includes chefs from all over the Verde Valley from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The admission for the cook off is $15.
Dos Gringos
All weekend long there will be live bands and DJs to get you in the festive spirit. Dos Gringos has been voted No. 1 party in the Valley multiple years in a row. On May 5, you can enjoy delicious food, cold beer and fun music until 2 a.m.
Hotel Congress Cinco de Mayo Party
If you are in Tucson, enjoy an evening filled with live music from Santa Pachita. There will be legendary agave spirits, such as their specialties Milagro and El Silencio. The evening starts at 7 p.m. and ends at 2 a.m. The first 150 people get to enjoy their happy hour until 8 p.m. Admission is $5.
Ghost Ranch
The locally owned restaurant in Tempe is celebrating by offering their signature Prickly Pear Frose ‘Rita for $5. The frozen cocktail made with Blanco Tequila, Rose, prickly pear and lime is a refreshing drink you can enjoy all day long. While you are there enjoy dishes from their southwestern cuisine to accompany your ‘rita like one of their house specialties or a taco platter to share with family and friends!
Cinco de Mayo at the Rhythm Room
At the Rhythm Room in Phoenix, Mario Moreno and the Black and Tans, Al Foul Trio will be performing. The event is $5 for admission. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m.
Casino Arizona Cinco de Mayo
This casino has a ton to offer on this Mexican holiday. The entertainment options include a middleweight unification fight between Canelo and Jacobs, the Selena Super Show and Mariachi Azteca De Oro. They also are offering many deals at their restaurants: a brunch at the Eagles Buffet, a prix fixe meal at Cholla Steakhouse and much more.
Cinco de Mayo Cornhole Tournament
The Cerveza Dos Equis Beer Garden will be flowing with fun with an event hosting a round robin cornhole tournament. Get your team of four and try your luck for the crown. Alongside the tournament, there will be music, drinks and a football game. The event is 21 and over.