Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, but really, the holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla (Batalla de Puebla) and has become a time during which Mexican Americans celebrate their rich culture and heritage.
From the annual Cinco de Mayo parade in Southwest Detroit and We Are Culture Creators’ Fiesta Detroit to lucha libre wresting and a tequila festival in Royal Oak, there’s no shortage of events happening in our area. Here’s a look at five standouts for you to enjoy responsibly and respectfully.
60th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta
The Mexican Patriotic Committee of Metro Detroit is hosting its annual Cinco de Mayo celebration at Patton Park all weekend long. The fiesta runs Saturday and Sunday with traditional music and cultural activities and in the past has included vendors, mariachis, and food. The 2.4-mile parade on Sunday is the big draw with spectacularly decorated floats, talented performers, and more. May 3-4. No cost to view the parade; other fees may apply. Southwest Detroit area; mpcdetroit.org.
Fiesta Detroit
Somos Culture Creators, a subsidiary of local collective We Are Culture Creators that services Detroit’s Latino art community, hosts several days of Cinco de Mayo events that started on Tuesday, April 29, leading up to the big day on Monday. This year’s festivities include music spun by live DJs, art displays, live music, plenty of food, and more. Select days May 1-5. No cost for the street fair. Cover fees apply to some concerts but other concerts are free, check ahead. El Club, 4114 W. Vernor Highway, Detroit, and the surrounding area; weareculturecreators.com.
Lucha Boom
Enjoy an evening of lucha libre wrestling, along with aerial acrobatics, live music, and plenty of food and drink, in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. Wrestlers at the event include Danhausen, El Dragon, sakura, Skybird, and Legendario Jr. Ages 21+ only. May 2. $35-$80. Masonic Temple, 500 Temple St., Detroit; luchaboom.com.
Royal Oak Tequila Fest
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by exploring the agave-based Mexican spirit at this year’s festival. Guests at the event will sample a variety of tequila brands, tequila liqueurs, crèmes, mezcals, and more alongside handcrafted margaritas and other cocktails. In addition, find taco trucks and live music. May 3. $34-$69. Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak; eventbrite.com.
This post has been updated for 2025.
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