Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates Mexico’s 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla, is prompting many families to plan outdoor gatherings and festive drinks ahead of the holiday.Though often confused with Mexico’s Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo marks what historians have described as an unlikely military victory. In the United States, the observance began in California and has since grown into a broader celebration of Mexican culture, food and community.Locally, this year’s holiday is expected to bring people together outside, said Alan Richard, general manager at Total Wine and More.”Locally, I would suspect as long as the weather’s as beautiful as it is today, there’s going to be a lot of barbecues, there’s going to be a lot of outside time, a lot of family time,” Richard said.For many hosts, the margarita remains a staple because it is simple, familiar and easy to make at home.”I would say for this festive time would be a margarita, right?” Richard said. “We have everything from pre-made mixes to where you just add your favorite tequila and the cocktail’s ready to go.”Richard said people looking to add a festive touch do not need to overcomplicate it. Small details, he said, can make a drink feel more celebratory.”Garnishes usually bring drinks to life,” Richard said.He suggested using dehydrated limes, a splash of agave nectar for sweetness or a Tajín rim to add flavor and color. Richard said the most important thing is to keep the celebration safe.”Just be responsible,” he said. “Know your limitations, have fun.”
Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates Mexico’s 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla, is prompting many families to plan outdoor gatherings and festive drinks ahead of the holiday.
Though often confused with Mexico’s Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo marks what historians have described as an unlikely military victory. In the United States, the observance began in California and has since grown into a broader celebration of Mexican culture, food and community.
Locally, this year’s holiday is expected to bring people together outside, said Alan Richard, general manager at Total Wine and More.
“Locally, I would suspect as long as the weather’s as beautiful as it is today, there’s going to be a lot of barbecues, there’s going to be a lot of outside time, a lot of family time,” Richard said.
For many hosts, the margarita remains a staple because it is simple, familiar and easy to make at home.
“I would say for this festive time would be a margarita, right?” Richard said. “We have everything from pre-made mixes to where you just add your favorite tequila and the cocktail’s ready to go.”
Richard said people looking to add a festive touch do not need to overcomplicate it. Small details, he said, can make a drink feel more celebratory.
“Garnishes usually bring drinks to life,” Richard said.
He suggested using dehydrated limes, a splash of agave nectar for sweetness or a Tajín rim to add flavor and color. Richard said the most important thing is to keep the celebration safe.
“Just be responsible,” he said. “Know your limitations, have fun.”
