Five Places to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

It's Cinco de Mayo, commemoration of the day Mexican forces defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

In the United States, people celebrate this day by enjoying Mexican food and culture. No need to go to Tijuana or Cancun. Here are five places nearby you can celebrate.

Casa Blanca, located at 1070 Osgood St., offers traditional Mexican cuisine including traditional fajitas, enchiladas and burritos as well as a few specialty dishes. Their Ultimate Margarita is a local favorite. Casa Blanca also has locations in Andover, North Andover and Billerica.

2. Chipotle

If you're pressed for time and need your Mexican fix with a quickness, stop by Chipotle at 93 Turnpike Street. They offer classic Mexican food with quick services. No margaritas there, however. But the food is cooked fresh.

When you think of Jaime's at 25 High St., you may not think of Mexican. But that restaurant is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with dinner specials and raffles. You could win a free oil change, restaurant gift cards or Red Sox tickets. The celebration begins at 5 p.m., but the restaurant is open all day. And there's a patio on which to enjoy your margarita too.

4. Cafe Azteca

Located just outside of town at 180 Common St., Lawrence, Cafe Azteca is a regional favorite when it comes to authentic Mexican food. And the decor inside will make you think you are relaxing in a Mexican villa.

5. Mexico Lindo

Mexico Lindo is located at 5 Pleasant St., Methuen (right off Route 28) and offers traditional Mexican food from the various regions of Mexico as well as a wide selection of Mexican-inspired drinks.