While Minnesotans might be about 1,838 miles away from hot and sunny Mexico, Cinco de Mayo festivals are still plentiful in the Twin Cities area this year. Historical fact: while many people think thatCinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s independence, it is actually the official date of the defeat of French forces in the town of Puebla in 1862. However, it is also a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride.
There are several fun-filled fiestas planned for the 5th of May in the Twin Cities area.
Cinco de Mayo in the District del Sol
In the District del Sol in St. Paul, the Saint Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation is putting on a festival to celebrate. The party will include music, dancing, a low rider car show, kid’s activities, food, a parade, and more. The Fiesta will take place along Cesar Chavez Street in Westside St. Paul on Saturday, May 5th between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.
Cinco de Mayo at El Nuevo Rodeo
El Nuevo Rodeo, the Latin dance club and restaurant on Lake Street in Minneapolis, has planned two full days of Cinco de Mayo festivities this year. First, on May 5th, the restaurant will provide a Mexican beer tasting, dancing, children’s activities, food and much more. All set to the lively tones of a Mariachi band, this portion of El Nuevo Rodeo’s Cinco de Mayo celebration will take place from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. On Sunday, May 6th, El Nuevo Rodeo will host a block party from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm, complete with two stages for music, dancing, and entertainment for the whole family.
Cinco de Mayo 8k Race
If eating and drinking isn’t your way of celebrating, don’t worry, you can join fellow runners at Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis for a quick 8k run around the lake. The run begins at 9:00 am on Saturday, May 5th near the main beach on the west side of Lake Nokomis. For more information, visit http://www.runningventures.
Want to simply grab a bite of some great, authentic Mexican food to celebrate? You’re in luck! Minneapolis is nearly bursting at the seams with delicious Mexican restaurants. Here are just a few: Bar Abiline in Uptown, Pepitos in Minneapolis, La Poblanita along East Lake Street in south Minneapolis, and La Cucharacha in St. Paul. You could also try the eccentric Senor Wong, a Mexican.Asian fusion restaurant, in downtown St. Paul. You could also swing by the Latin American marketplace, Mercado Central, on East Lake Street, and visit one of the ten Mexican restaurants and bakeries there.
More information for all of these activities can be found at http://minneapolis.about.com/