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While this annual celebration commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, the holiday has become widely celebrated in the United States. In fact, sales of beer on Cinco de Mayo rival those on Super Bowl Sunday.
The Mile High City is no exception to this trend. From bar crawls to rooftop fiestas, Denverites love to celebrate our southern neighbor’s victory. Here, we’ve collected five ways to commemorate the occasion.
Blanco Cocina & Cantina
With all the drink specials on the menu at this Hale cantina, you’ll need more than one day to try everything. Thankfully, Blanco Cocina & Cantina understood the assignment. Leading up to the holiday, order $5 Dos Equis, a specialty margarita (topped with a Mexican sangria float), a shot starring jalapeño and mint, and more. Visit on Cinco de Mayo to hear melodies from a live mariachi band. May 2–5; Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
To Denverites, Cinco de Mayo is more than just a day to overindulge in Corona and guac. More than a third of Mile High City residents are Hispanic, meaning the holiday is a celebration of its citizens’ culture. This sprawling two-day festival in Civic Center Park reflects that, from a lowrider car show to traditional entertainment from the likes of Lobo Hombre and Lisa Trujillo Dance Folklorico. There is a packed lineup of events, but be sure to catch the chihuahua-racing competition, taco-eating contest, and the bevy of mouthwatering Mexican eats. May 4–5; 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; free, VIP tickets available
Denver Tacos & Margs Crawl
This moveable feast, er, fiesta starts in the Jaguar Room at Con Safos and bounces around LoDo, including spots such as Sonny’s Tacos and the Refinery. Along the way, you’ll be met with food specials (think: tacos, nachos, and churros); DJ sets; and, yes, plenty of jumbo margaritas. Make sure you stop at each location to participate in spin-to-win games. May 4–5; general admission starts at 2 p.m.; $25–$65
Cinco de RiNo Block Party
Cinco de Mayo isn’t the only day Los Chingones churns out top-tier Mexican food, but for the holiday, the Troy Guard–owned concept is upping the ante. Throughout the day, hear live music, participate in giveaways, snap photos with luchadores, and—maybe after a marg or two—mount a mechanical bull. The restaurant’s outpost in Denver Tech Center is also hosting a celebration. May 5; 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; $6
Cinco de Mayo Festival at Orchard Town Center
Not all Cinco de Mayo parties are kid-friendly—and that might be putting it mildly. Those with niños in tow can turn to this Westminster fest that centers Mexican culture and heritage. Attendees can hear tunes from a mariachi band, peruse booths from local makers, taste traditional Mexican bites (tacos, guacamole, and salsa included), and parents will still have an opportunity to get a margarita. May 5; 1–6 p.m.; free admission