Cinco de Mayo is a colorful celebration of Mexican heritage, culture and pride. Its history goes back to The Day of the Battle of Puebla, when Mexico became victorious over the French in the aftermath of the Mexican-American War.
It’s celebrated in the United States and is especially apparent here in San Diego, where we’re rich with Mexican-American culture.
Wondering of how you’re going to spend your Cinco de Mayo? We’ve got plenty of options all over the county. Whether you’re into live music, festivals, history and, of course, tequila, there’s something for you. Oh, and if beer's more your speed, we highly suggest this activity.
Click the links below for additional information.
NORTH COUNTY
Carlsbad
- When/where: , 2930 Roosevelt St., May 5 from 1-4 p.m.
- Why go: The farmers market will be jazzed up thanks to The Smiling Elephant with things like music, contests and more.
- Cost: Free.
Encinitas/Solana Beach
- When/where: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of San Dieguito, 1036 Solana Dr, Del Mar, May 5 from 5-8:30 p.m.
- Why go: Munch on food, sip on wine and beer and participate in a live or silent auction. There will also be live music and dancing.
- Cost: Free.
Escondido
- When/where: Melrose Ranch, 16757 Old Guejito Grade Rd., May 5 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go: This unique celebration celebrates Mexican culture and history. Guests can expect to experience a Mexican lunch, wagon rides, pinatas, cowboys, blacksmiths and more. This is also a fundraiser for the Melrose Ranch.
- Cost: $45; $15 for teens; $8 for kids 6-12 and free for those 6 and under.
Poway
- When/where: , 14644 Lake Poway Rd., May 5 at 6:30 a.m.
- Why go: Start your Cinco de Mayo day off with a 5K, a 10K or a fun kids run at Lake Poway. Three courses will be set up for different running levels.
- Cost: $10-$40.
- When/where: , 12755 Danielson Ct., May 5 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go: Celebrate the grand opening of the new café at the nursery with some authentic Mexican food, music, face painting and more.
- Cost: $5 items on the menu.
BEACHES
La Jolla
- When/where: , 1037 Prospect St., May 5 at noon.
- Why go: Bands will be playing throughout the day, like Brent Curtis, a Rolling Stones cover band, and the Ryan Hiller Band. Drink specials will be in full effect.
- Cost: $5 margaritas and tequila shots. All proceeds from this event will benefit La Jolla Fire Station #9.
- When/where: , 909 Prospect St., May 5 from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
- Why go: La Jolla resident Suzy Skarulis will be performing with her band while you sip tequila specials and munch on taco deals.
- Cost: $5 admission.
CENTRAL
Downtown
San Diego Padres’ Cinco de Mayo Party
- When/where: 100 Park Blvd., San Diego, on May 4 at 5 p.m.
- Why go: Celebrate the festive day (well, the day before) with baseball! The Padres face off against the Marlins at 7:05 p.m., but come early for live music, $5 beers, $5 margaritas or cocktails and $5 carnitas Tacos.
- Cost: $5-$100.
Old Town
29th Annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo
- When/where: Old Town on May 4 from 5-10 p.m.; May 5 from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; May 6 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Why go: Celebrate the festive holiday with three days of authentic Mexican food, mariachi, various entertainment and plenty of vendors to shop around.
- Cost: Free, but we’re not counting your margartia and taco purchases.
EAST COUNTY
Ramona
- When/where: , 24157 San Vicente Rd., May 5 from noon-9 p.m.
- Why go: Enjoy drink and food specials, like shrimp tostada bites, grilled fish tacos, carne asada plate, bay scallop ceviche, margarita chicken skewers, and listen to some live music by the Mariners at 8 p.m.
- Cost: Cost varies.
La Mesa
- When/where: , 5500 Grossmont Center Dr., May 5
- Why go: Enjoy margarita and tequila specials, along with food deals, in the cantina. The restaurant will also have mariachi, troubadours and ballet folklorico.
- Cost: Cost varies.
SOUTH COUNTY
Chula Vista
- When/where: Third Avenue Village, 3rd Ave., Chula Vist on May 6 at 11 a.m.
- Why go: Experience authentic Mexican culture with local artisans, dancers and authentic cuisine. There will be a kids’ zone and a mariachi band battle.
- Cost: Free to attend.
National City
Cinco De Mayo: Celebrating Our Communities
- When/where: Kimball Park, 12th & "D," National City, May 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Why go: Families can spend the day at the park and be entertained with live music and performances from regional bands, carnival games, face painting and martial art demonstrations.
- Cost: Free.
Imperial Beach
- When/where: , 992 Palm Ave., May 5 at 9 p.m.
- Why go: Stay local for Cinco de Mayo and rock out to music by the So Cal Vibes.
- Cost: Whatever you spend on booze!
