Kristina BensonIs it already time to celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, where Mexican forces soundly defeated the French under the direction of General Zaragoza? It certainly is (tomorrow)! What follows is a list of the best street parties, musical events, and other such activities in and around Los Angeles in honor of Cinco de Mayo!:
Calexico is a Tuscon collective that brings together the music of the Southwest with elements of your favorite spaghetti Western soundtrack, surf music, and jazz. Joined by fellow Tuscon natives Mariachi Luz de Luna (an actual mariachi band) at the Echoplex.
Where: the Echoplex
When: May 5 at 8pm
More info can be found here.
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Nokia Theater
Want to go big for Cinco de Mayo? This celebration will be emceed in both English and español, and there will be a battle of the Mariachi bands featuring rgullo de San Diego, Voz de America, Puno de Oro, Tesoro de San Fernando, Nueva Generacion, Los Toros, Estrella de Jalisco de Ernesto Molina. And of course, there will be a beer garden and Méxican food and drinks!
Where: Nokia Theater
When: May 5 from 5:30-9pm
More info can be found here.
La Plaza will celebrate its very first Cinco de Mayo with music, crafts, and free admission to exhibitions LA Starts Here! and Calle Principal. Mariachi bands will be roaming the grounds and local trios Cambalache and Trio Loteri will be performing in the garden.
Where: La Plaza de Cultura y Artes
When: May 5, 4pm – 7pm
More info can be found here.
Olvera Street is one of the oldest streets in Los Angeles. There is a special program of folklorico and other entertainment scheduled from noon to eight on Cinco de Mayo itself. So bring the kids and soak up the local culture in the historical atmosphere of Olvera.
Where: Olvera Street
When: May 5 from noon – 8 pm
More info can be found here.
Not for the easily offended or the faint of heart, this event will feature masked luchadores, saucy strip tease artists, comedy, and cars that go Vavoom. The poster alone should make you want to see what all the fuss will surely be about. Tickets are going fast, so get yours soon!
Where: the Mayan
When: May 5 at 7 pm
More info can be found here.
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