Cinco De Mayo, celebrated on May 5 every year, is often considered to be the Mexican Independence Day. However, that is not true – and many do not know the significance of this day in Mexico’s history. Celebrated mainly in the Puebla region of Mexico, the celebration has its unique importance. In this blog, we’ll dive into the significance of Cinco De Mayo, along with how you can travel and other information to know!
Cinco De Mayo: Significance & How To Travel
History Of Cinco De Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is often considered to be the Mexican Independence Day, however, it certainly isn’t it. Instead, it commemorates a single battle.
In 1861, Benito Juárez, a lawyer and member of the Indigenous Zapotec tribe, was elected president of Mexico. The country was in financial ruin after years of internal strife, so the new president was forced to default on debt payments to European governments.
In response, Britain, Spain, and France sent naval forces to Veracruz, Mexico, to demand repayment. Britain and Spain negotiated with Mexico, ultimately withdrawing their forces. However, France, governed by Napoleon III, decided to use this opportunity to gain control of Mexican territory. In the same year, the French stormed Veracruz, however, President Juárez gathered a force of 2,000 loyal men and sent them to Puebla. Many of them were either Indigenous Mexicans or of mixed ancestry.
What ensued was a battle between the French and the Mexican, with the latter being greatly outnumbered and having poor ammunition. Despite the circumstances, the ‘Battle of Puebla’ lasted from daybreak to early evening, when the French finally retreated. When the war ended, the French had lost nearly 500 soldiers, whereas less than 100 Mexicans had been killed in the clash.
Cinco De Mayo Celebration In Mexico
Cinco De Mayo is not a festival and is not widely celebrated in Mexico, as many would assume. It is primarily commemorated in the state of Puebla where the victory emerged. Some other parts of the country also take part in the commemoration, but on a small scale.
The day is commemorated with traditional festivities. This includes military parades, vibrant recreations and road shows of the Battle of Puebla, and other festive events.
However, for most Mexicans, the day is as normal as any other day. Also since it’s not an official holiday, most banks, schools, and offices remain open.
In most other parts of the world, especially the United States, where there is a significant Mexican population, the day becomes extra special. Mexican people in these places take it as an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. In many cities like Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles, there are large festivals organized, complete with parties, dances, and traditional food stalls.
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How To Visit Mexico: Flight Details From India
By air, there are no direct flights from India to Mexico yet. The best way to reach Mexico is to take connecting flights to global aviation hubs like Amsterdam, Munich, Frankfurt, Zurich, or Toronto, and then to Mexico City.
There are connecting flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad to Mexico that can either take one or two stops in between. This means you’ll be traveling for a long time across continents!
During the Cinco de Mayo season, i.e. in May, flights from major Indian cities cost the following:
- Mumbai: Starting INR 1,79,293
- Bengaluru: Starting INR 1,65,957
- Hyderabad: Starting 1,65,342
- New Delhi: Starting INR 1,50,662
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Mexico Visa For Indians
Visa validity: 180 days
Length of stay: 180 days
Entry: Single
Indian citizens holding a valid passport need to hold a Mexico visa for entering the country. It is quite easy for Indian citizens, but note that Indian passport holders cannot obtain a visa on arrival for Mexico.
Here are the eligibility requirements:
- Valid passport with at least six months validity from your intended day of arrival in Mexico
- A recent, passport-sized photograph, usually of 35 x 45 mm, taken against a white background
- Proof of financial means – recent bank statements or other evidence of sufficient funds. Also, you need to provide 3 years’ ITR statement
- Confirmed or tentative flight bookings and hotel reservations or an official invitation letter from your host in Mexico
Summing Up
The Cinco de Mayo is a commemoration of the Mexican people’s victory over the French. While it is mainly celebrated in Mexico’s Puebla, it is also a big celebration in many parts of the US where the Mexican diaspora lives.
FAQs
What Do People Commonly Mistake Cinco De Mayo For?
Many people commonly mistake Cinco de Mayo for the Mexican Independence Day.
What Is The Biggest Holiday In Mexico?
Mexican Independence Day is mostly considered to be the biggest holiday in Mexico.
Why Is Cinco De Mayo Bigger In The Us Than Mexico?
It is bigger in the US than Mexico as the Mexican diaspora takes it to celebrate their own cultural heritage.
