DENVER – In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo doesn’t really mean much. It’s not a holiday, people don’t get drunk on the streets and they definitely do not celebrate the country’s Independence Day.
But it’s a whole different story if you live in the U.S., which is why we’ve compiled the following list of events happening across Colorado in case you’re planning to get festive with margaritas, get stuffed with nachos or get crazy on the dance floor.
1. Northern Colorado Cinco de Mayo Festival – Fort Collins
Head north to Fort Collins for two days of fiesta! Discover the Beer and Margarita Garden (21+ to participate, obviously), or watch performers of the Quetzalcoatl (KEHT-sal-COH-Ah-TL, for those who want to impress that special other) Dance Group at Old Town Square.
There’s also something for the kids, just head on out to the Entertainment Fairway for some inflatable fun.
But wait! There’s more: If you’re a car aficionado, don’t miss the Cinco De Mayo Car Show.
When: May 5 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and May 6 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Head over to the City of Fort Collins website for a list of all locations.
2. Dada Life at Red Rocks – Morrison
If you’re trying to escape the party but still want to enjoy some music, the Red Rocks amphitheater is welcoming DADA LIFE on May 5.
The concert will start at 5 p.m. and tickets range from $30 to $75. Ticket details here.
RELATED: Top acts coming to Pepsi Center, Red Rocks in 2017
When: May 5 at 5 p.m.
Where: Red Rocks Amphitheater
3. 30th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival - Denver
Put on each year by the Santa Fe Drive Redevelopment Corportation, the Cinco de Mayo festival in Denver brings out thousands of people to celebrate art, food and other Mexican customs.
The event kicks off with a parade jam that begins on Colfax Avenue and Welton Street at 10 a.m. and ends at Civic Center Park, where the festival will be held.
Enjoy music, dance and traditional costumes from Mexico with over 350 vendors ready to make the two-day festival a really enjoyable one.
When: May 6 and 7 starting at 10 a.m.
Where: Denver’s Civic Center Park
4. Longmont Celebrates Cinco de Mayo – Longmont
The 15th annual Longmont Celebrates Cinco de Mayo festival will bring thousands of people to enjoy some dancing, food and shopping. There will also be a car show and a Chihuahua beauty contest for all you dog lovers.
When: May 6 from 11 a.m. to 7 pm.
Where: Roosevelt Park
5. El Cinco de Mayo Inc., Fiesta and Car Show – Colorado Springs
The annual Fiesta and Car Show is happening in Colorado Springs for the 34th year in a row!
There will be a ton of food vendors, car shows and other activities for the whole family to enjoy. All proceeds go to the El Cinco de Mayo, Inc. scholarship.
When: May 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Head over to the organizer’s website for the full details
A brief history of Cinco de Mayo
While not an official holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which took place in 1862 between the military forces of Mexico and France.
The battle is of great cultural significance to the Mexican people as it was the first time Mexican forces were able to defeat a stronger and far better equipped military, considered to be one of the most powerful military forces in the world at the time.
Mexico's Independence Day is celebrated on September 16.
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