Classic Kia Celebrates Cinco De Mayo: Learn about the History of Cinco De Mayo, Local Lake County and Chicago Restaurants, and more!

May 5, 2023

Today is Cinco De Mayo, but aside from promotional events and bottomless margarita specials, how much do you know about the origins of this day in Mexican history? Today, we wanted to take a moment to share a little bit about the origins of this commemorative holiday, and then of course, a list of local restaurants where you can grab a delicious Mexican dinner with friends and family! (And of course after reading this blog you can impress them with your knowledge of history and culture while you chow down!) It’s a great day to support your local Mexican and Mexican-American owned local businesses.

Sharing the real, authentic story behind the holiday is a great way to change stereotypes and educate others about the powerful origins of this day in Mexican heritage and history! So make sure if you’re partaking in the festivities locally, that you remember its importance and talk about it with others. Supporting Mexican Arts and Mexican Museums is another great way to celebrate! Embracing the culture, history, and traditions of Mexican artisans through special gallery shows and arts and history museums is an incredible way to connect and honor the culture. And, of course, exploring the incredibly vast and flavorful authentic meals and recipes from Mexico’s many different regional cuisines. Whether you’re stopping by a local restaurant or cooking a meal at home for you and your family and friends, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the heritage! Looking for dishes that originated in Puebla specifically? Check out this great list from Isabella’s blog “Let’s Travel to Mexico”!

What is Cinco De Mayo?

In America it’s become synonymous with unlimited tacos and bottomless margs, but it actually holds significant historic relevance to the country of Mexico. Contrary to popular belief, its association with a feast of Mexican and Tex Mex foods is a popularly increasing celebratory trend of recent years. Many people presume that Cinco De Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day, but it actually has other origins.

Cinco de Mayo, is actually the Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, a celebration observed in Mexico and parts of the US. The Mexican Army’s achieved victory over the French Empire on May 5th 1862, thanks to General Ignacio Zaragoza, and overtook the French Forces of Napoleon III. The French later returned with reinforcements, but ultimately were defeated by the Mexican Army who took full control back of the city later in April 1867. The battle remains a significant day in Mexican history, symbolizing Mexico’s determination to take back their home, and their fortitude in the face of foreign occupation and aggressors. In Mexico, it’s not really a “holiday” except for the region of Puebla, where it of course is very significant.

Mother and daughter talking while preparing food at kitchen counter at home

Check out this video from Street Vlogs and take a drive through Puebla from Angelopolis through to the Historic City Center in gorgeous 4K video!

Vlogger Geraldine Glam on YouTube is sharing 20 things to do in Puebla 2023! (En Español)

Learn more about the food and history of Puebla Mexico from Tourist to Local on Youtube!

Anthony Bourdain A Cooks Tour “Puebla Where the Good Cooks are From” is a nostalgic episode from Season 1 of the late chef’s show celebrating the incredible cuisine, culture, and history of Puebla Mexico!

What’s it like driving the Pan American Highway through Mexico? Check out this incredible vlog from Toyota World Runners on YouTube as the document their road trip journey.

Daniel Suarez is the first Mexican NASCAR driver, and here’s a little spotlight video from I Am Athlete on YouTube!

Great Mexican and TexMex Eateries in the Lake County Illinois and Greater Chicago Area:

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