Although often thought of as Mexico’s Independence Day. In reality, Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s surprise victory over France on May 5, 1862, eventually leading to their independence.
The holiday was first celebrated in the United States in 1933 — when President Franklin Roosevelt introduced the “Good Neighbor Policy” to improve relations with Latin American countries. In the U.S., Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a festive holiday, creating an appreciation for Mexican art and culture.
Food vendors will be set up on Calle Independencia from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Los Muertos Salsa will be selling elote, fresh chips, and salsa — with Go Bananas selling gourmet chocolate-dipped bananas. Tacos and margaritas will be available at El Rincon Restaurante.
Admission to the event is Free. A Free Trolley Service is available from 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM from the Up Town municipal parking lot at 260 Schnebly.
Cinco de Mayo Events, Times, and Locations
Mariachi Familia Rojas
11 Am – 12 Noon Patio de las Rosas
12 PM – 1 PM Tlaquepaque North
1 PM – 2 PM Chapel Outside Courtyard
This male and female Mariachi group is a family of musicians! Roaming the streets of Tlaquepaque, they enhance the day’s excitement by serenading visitors with their beautiful vocals and classic sounds of regional Mexican music.
Ballet Folklorico de Colores — 11 AM, 1 PM & 3 PM Tlaquepaque North
Ballet Folklorico de Colores graces the venue with three one-hour performances in Tlaquepaque North throughout the afternoon. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to educating children by teaching and performing Mexican folk dances. Their costumes authenticate a variety of traditional dances from different regions of Mexico. The dancers vary in age, with the execution of even the youngest being impressive and delightful. These performances are a highlight of Tlaquepaque’s Cinco de May celebrations.
Flamenco Gaetano — 11 AM – 2 PM Patio del Norte
Gaetano is an exquisitely talented group of local musicians. Their music is a fusion of flamenco with spicy Latin rhythms and enchanting vocals. The band will be accompanied by the phenomenal energy of Spanish flamenco dancers performing in the colorful costumes of Mexico.
Don Julio & dos Guitarras — 11 PM – 2 PM Patio de las Campañas
Known for their passionate musical performances. This group shares a diverse synthesis of music from Spain, Mexico, and Latin America. Their fingerstyle guitar rhythms are some of the finest in the area.
Victor Andrada — 1 PM – 3 PM. Patio de las Rosas
Tlaquepaque introduces West Texas singer/songwriter Victor Andrada to its Cinco de Mayo celebrations this year. His beautiful vocals, original music, and Latin sounds on Spanish guitar may have you swooning…
Ritmo Latino — 2:30 PM – 5 PM Patio del Norte
Ritmo Latino returns to Tlaquepaque’s musical lineup of Cinco de Mayo talent. This six-piece Phoenix band led by vocalist Andres Martinez — plays a blend of salsa, cumbia, cha cha cha, and Latin jazz. Embracing the flavors of old Mexico with robust vocals, saxophone, and sultry Latin percussion — their music may inspire you to dance.
Paloma Trio — 3 PM – 5 PM Patio de las Campañas
New to Tlaquepaque are local musicians Bob and Teresa Backes on classical guitar, keyboards, flute, and vocals. They are joined by world-class percussionist Sabina Sandoval in a musical performance of Neo Flamenco, Mexican romantic, and Spanish music.
Children’s Activities for Cinco de Mayo
Face Painting — 11 AM – 5 PM Patio de las Campañas Imaginative and fun face painting delights children of all ages.
Piñata’s — 1 PM to 4 PM Every hour on the hour! Patio de las Campañas
An exciting and popular event for kids they may ask to visit twice.
Arts & Crafts for the Kids — 1 PM – 4 PM Patio de las Campañas
An opportunity to paint a wooden snake or little maraca.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village at 336 State Route 179 in Sedona, Arizona, is celebrating 50 years in 2023. Often referred to as the Art & Soul of Sedona, it is home to 45 shops, galleries, and five restaurants. Open daily at 10:00 am. For more information, call 928.282.4838 or visit www.tlaq.com