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Although this annual tradition commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, the holiday has become widely observed 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 six ways (plus a few bonus ideas) to honor the occasion, beginning this weekend.
My Neighbor Felix
You’ll want to wear stretchy pants to this LoHi bash—and not because you’ll be eating too much queso. At this Mexican eatery, you’ll use good old-fashioned manpower to blend your beverages. Hop on a Cointreau-sponsored pedal-to-blend bike and your reward is a frothy drink. All weekend, My Neighbor Felix will offer happy hour prices on margaritas, including the mango sunrise and watermelon renditions. May 2–5; restaurant times vary; prices vary
Denver Tacos & Margs Crawl
This roving feast, er, fiesta starts at Con Safos and bounces around LoDo, including spots such as the Retro Room, Swanky’s, and Wonderyard Garden & Table. Along the way, you’ll be met with food specials (think: tacos, nachos, and churros); DJ sets; and, yes, plenty of drinks. Make sure you stop at each location to participate in spin-to-win games. May 3–4; 2 p.m.; $25–$65

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 an important celebration of its citizens’ culture. This sprawling two-day festival in Civic Center Park reflects that, from a lowrider car show to traditional entertainment by local performers, including La Rancherita de Colorado and Dance Folklorico, across three stages. There is a packed lineup of events, but be sure to catch the Saturday-morning community parade, chihuahua-racing competition, taco-eating contest, and the bevy of mouthwatering Mexican eats. May 3–4; 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; free, VIP tickets available
Sippin’ de Mayo
Time is a construct on Cinco de Mayo. That means you can drink a margarita at 10 a.m. and no one will judge you. In fact, we bet you’ll be in good company at Ambler’s themed brunch. Expect churro pancakes, huevos rancheros, hearty breakfast burritos, and beverages starring Corazon Tequila. Think of it as carb loading for the revelry that’s likely to ensue later. May 4; 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; prices vary

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 chow down on chicken and beef street tacos, watermelon with chamoy and Tajin, and elote topped with chipotle aioli, crema, crushed Takis, cotija cheese, and cilantro. May 4; 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; free attendance, drinks and food available for purchase
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 kiddos can turn to this Westminster fest that centers Mexican culture and heritage. Attendees can hear tunes from a mariachi band, browse booths from local makers, and taste traditional Mexican bites (tacos, guacamole, and salsa included). May 5; 4–9 p.m.; free admission
More Ways to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo
- Share a $25 frozen margarita flight with friends at Kachina Cantina.
- Enjoy a rooftop tequila tasting at Tamayo.
- Rise early and receive a free margarita at Boulder’s Centro Mexican Kitchen (first 100 people).
- Compete in Cinco-themed trivia at Cheluna Brewing Co.