Celebrating Cinco de Mayo
Why all the fuss and imbibing on the 5th day of May? We had been told it has something to do with Mexican history. According to our research it is the day, in 1862, that the Mexican army conquered French forces at the Battle of Puebla. We’ve also learned that it is celebrated far more heavily here in the U.S.A. than in Mexico. North of the border it has become a national tequila drinking day, and we always try to do our bit.
This year the 5th of May fell on a Thursday, so we called around to various TexMex establishments in the area to find out just how they were commemorating the big day. All those we spoke with had various special dining options and margarita prices, but we opted for Pancho & Lefty’s in Rowlett because owner Chuck Morales told us he had scheduled entertainment with live music. The music was good, the shrimp fajitas were very good and the margaritas were quite potent.
When we left, the place was jumping and everyone seemed to be having a good time, though we were certain that they had no idea that they were celebrating the Battle of Puebla.
The celebrations continued on into Friday, Seis de Mayo, and we were invited to join Juanita and Horacio Lopez at the Garland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s gathering held in the Masaryk Event Center. This was a very dignified affair, in a very upscale environment. The room became quiet and guests looked toward the stage as the Flamenco guitarist began to play.
Two dancers appeared on the stage and the drumming of their stilettos on the wood floor, in time with the rhythm of the strumming guitar had an intoxicating effect on the crowd. As we sipped our tequila cocktails I glanced around the room and wondered if any of these Latino business executives knew anything about the Battle of Puebla. It was just a fleeting thought as the drumming and strumming once again took over my senses.
On Saturday, Siete de Mayo, there was yet more celebrating of Cinco de Mayo! We had attended this event for the past few years and had planned to celebrate with all comers in the Garland Downtown Square, but could just not muster the enthusiasm this year. This would have marked the third day of celebrating the Battle of Puebla and for some reason the joy of victory had lost its spark.
If the French had triumphed at the Battle of Puebla, would we be celebrating Cinco de Mayo and sipping champagne? Crepes instead of tacos? Just some thoughts to kick around until we celebrate again next spring.
Nancy Ghirla Email: [email protected]
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