Cinco de Mayo 2019: Where To Celebrate In Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM, AL - May 5 is the anniversary of the Mexican Army's defeat of France in 1862. Commonly known as Cinco de Mayo, the day has become a popular way for Americans to celebrate Mexican culture, and Birmingham offers a bevy of places to enjoy the celebration.

Although many people erroneously believe May 5 to be Mexico's independence day, it has become a much bigger holiday in the U.S. than it is in Mexico. Within Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is primarily observed in the state of Puebla, where Zaragoza's unlikely victory occurred, although other parts of the country also take part in the celebration.

Traditions include military parades, recreations of the Battle of Puebla and other festive events. However, In the U.S., it is usually celebrated by eating Mexican food, drinking margaritas and honoring Mexican culture.

Here are a few places in the metro area people can celebrate the holiday:

Iron City, 513 22nd Street S: Birmingham Mountain Radio and Jose Cuervo present Los Lobos. Doors open at 4 p.m. with a Mexican buffet, drink specials and more, and a show from the legendary band Los Lobos. $15-$30.

Rogue Tavern, 2312 2nd Avenue North: Cinco de Brunch - This long-standing day party at Rogue Tavern in downtown Birmingham features mimosas, margaritas, wings, tacos, live entertanment and more. Reservations are requested and the event begins at 1 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m.

Pepper Place, 2201 2nd Ave. South: Cinco de Mayo Festival 2019 May 4 - Come enjoy the Pepper Place Market, events at Hop City, Cantina and Ignite Cycle for a celebration that includes a farmers market, live music, food and drinks. Begins at 7 a.m.

Ghost Train Brewing Co., 2616 3rd Ave. South: Cinco de Mayo celebration and giveback day for FiestaBham from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Event includes a Mariachi band, and the Hot Tag will be serving all things Mexican, and four Cinco-centric beers.

Corbin Farms Winery, 800 Co. Road 87, Calera: A May 4 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta - Includes a Mariachi Band and "Wine-aritas." Also several specialties available during the event. Tickets include your first wine-arita or glass of wine.