Cinco De Mayo History: History Facts About The Mexican Holiday (PHOTOS)

The Most Interesting Facts About Cinco De Mayo

Today is Cinco de Mayo, and in honor of the Mexican holiday, revelers will be taking part in colorful celebrations before washing down steaming plates of enchiladas with ice-cold margaritas.

Though its origins are a mystery to most, the holiday is more than just a spirited excuse to brush up on your salsa lessons before raiding the local taco stand. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexico's surprising victory over the French -- then said to be the world's most powerful army -- at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

Still, the holiday is often confused with Mexican Independence Day, which is actually Sept. 16, and receives limited recognition throughout much of Mexico, despite acknowledging the country's heritage.

View facts about Cinco de Mayo here:

Cinco De Mayo Facts

Popular in the Community

Close

What's Hot