One of the most vibrant and culturally significant areas in our region is Mexicantown, located in Southwest Detroit near the Ambassador Bridge, where it has long been a popular destination for visitors and metro Detroiters attracted to the small shops, bakeries, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Mexicantown’s roots go back to the early 20th century. During the Mexican Revolution from 1910 to 1920, thousands of Mexicans fled the violence and poverty of their country and migrated to the United States, including to the Motor City, where many secured highly coveted auto factory jobs while establishing their own community in Southwest Detroit.
The community was supported by the establishment in 1923 of the Mexican Patriotic Committee, which fostered collaboration and unity while organizing activities that preserved and celebrated the cherished Mexican cultural heritage. Today, the committee is still very active; one of its biggest cultural events is Southwest Detroit’s annual Cinco de Mayo Parade.
Just as in Mexico, many Mexican American communities across the United States, including in Detroit, host a celebration to commemorate the Mexican army’s improbable victory over French forces at the Battle of
Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862.
Thirty-five years ago, at Detroit’s Cinco de Mayo Parade, a mother and daughter were captured in this photo proudly sporting traditional sombreros and colorful apparel while waving small Mexican flags to the hundreds of onlookers lining the streets watching the colorful floats, bands, dancers, and marchers pass by.
This year, the festive Southwest Detroit tradition took place on Sunday, May 4. The 60th annual Cinco de Mayo Parade commenced at noon at Patton Park (Woodmere St. and Vernor Highway) and traveled a 2.4-mile route ending at Clark Park (Scotten and Vernor).
This story originally appeared in the May 2025 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. To read more, pick up a copy of Hour Detroit at a local retail outlet. Our digital edition will be available on May 5. Plus, find even more The Way It Was articles at hourdetroit.com.
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