ST. LOUIS – As May 5 is quickly approaching, plans are underway to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, including several events occurring around St. Louis.
Cinco de Mayo is a day meant to celebrate Mexico defeating France in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While the day focuses on cherishing Mexican culture and heritage in the United States, it is still a small holiday in Mexico, according to History.
There are many ways to celebrate throughout the weekend in St. Louis.
Saturday, May 4 (11 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
Free
This festival is likely the largest event for the occasion around the area, which features two stages of live music and entertainment, a mechanical bull and Lucha Libre wrestling. In addition, more than 100 vendors will line Cherokee Street with margaritas, Mexican street food, merchandise, face painting, and more.
The parade begins at 1:11 p.m., traveling from Michigan Avenue to Ohio Avenue along Cherokee Street.
Sunday, May 5 (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.)
$30 per ticket
For those who are looking for a bite to eat, a taco crawl will pan across five restaurants in the Delmar Loop. According to the event, each restaurant will be creating their own specialty taco for this event.
Afterwards, attendees are invited to the Moonrise Hotel for an after-party.
Sunday, May 5
Free
Cardinals fans can root for their team while enjoying margaritas and cocktails across the street from Busch Stadium. The “Fiesta de Mayo” event is put on by Una Vida Tequila, which will have tastings, games, and live entertainment. In the evening, guests can stick around for Latin music with DJ’s until 10 p.m.
Sunday, May 5 (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
Free
The newly renovated Westport Plaza is welcoming guests for a Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music, outdoor bars, and party games. According to their website, they have over 30 margarita flavors and combinations for guests.
St. Louis Tacos and Tequila Bar Crawl
Saturday, May 4 (5p.m. to 11 p.m.)
$16-20
According to the event description, a ticket allows access to multiple venues with free entry, one shot and one taco, drink and food specials, a photographer to capture the best moments, and more.
Sunday, May 5 (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
Members: $8; Non-members: $10
The non-profit organization is hosting a Cinco de Mayo dance for all skill levels. There will be free beginner lessons from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and guests are able to bring in their own food and drinks for the occasion.
9-Mile Garden Cinco de Mayo Market
Sunday, May 5 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Free
9-Mile Garden hosts over 25 local vendors for a pop-up market on Gravois Road. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can purchase bottomless Bloody Mary’s and mimosas in the canteen.
In addition to these events, there are many Mexican restaurants that will be holding live music with food and drink specials throughout the Cinco de Mayo weekend.