More than just tacos and tequila, celebrating Cinco de Mayo in San Diego is full of rich, cultural offerings and fun for the whole family. From the first annual Mariachi Festival to the 30th annual Fiesta Old Town, this fifth of May find yourself the perfect place to celebrate the music, food and fun of the Mexican culture.
Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo
Now celebrating its 30th year, Fiesta Old Town is the largest event of its kind in Southern California. This free, three-day event is fun for the whole family including 3 stages of live entertainment, beer garden, bustling Mercado and interactive activities for the kids. Cruise down low-rider lane to check out custom paint jobs and gravity-defying hydraulics on display. Enjoy a high-end tequila tasting or satisfy your appetite by visiting over 20 restaurants featuring holiday specials.
Where: Old Town San Diego
When: May 3-5, 2013
Cost: Free
> Find out more about Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo
Cultura Urbana Cinco de Mayo
This year the craft cocktail crowd has somewhere specific to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. FYC & Twenty Five Stripes present Cultura Urbana Cinco de Mayo in Balboa Park featuring bands, Los Hollywood, Azucar, Sonidero Travesura and Iabide as well as a host of Djs to spin the day away. Libations provided by the cocktail pros at El Dorado Cocktail Lounge.
Where: El Centro Cultural de la Raza – 2004 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA
When: May 5, 2013
Time: 12:00 to 6:00 PM
Cost: $10 presale. $15 at the door
> Find out more about Cultura Urbana Cinco de Mayo
National City Cinco de Mayo Mariachi Festival
Showcasing Mariachi student groups from the United States and Mexico, this event celebrates San Diego’s heritage through mariachi music and traditional ballet folklórico. Featuring local and national mariachi, the event supports today’s youth in their artistic and educational endeavors.
Where: Pepper Park – 3299 Tidelands Ave. National City, CA 91950
When: April 27, 2013
Time: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
> Find out more about the National City Cinco de Mayo Mariachi Festival
La Colonia Cinco de Mayo
This free, family friendly fiesta in the Solana Beach community features plenty of fun for the kids with live mariachi bands, ballet folklórico, game booths, crafts, piñatas and fun jumps. Alcohol, smoking and pets are not permitted at this event.
Where: La Colonia Park – 715 Valley Avenue, Solana Beach
When: May 4, 2013
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
> Find out more about La Colonia Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo with Bazaar del Mundo
The Bazaar del Mundo Family of restaurants will continue the tradition started in 1983 with Cinco de Mayo celebrations at Casa de Pico in La Mesa, Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad and Casa Guadalajara in Old Town. In addition to margarita and cantina specials, each restaurant will have a host of entertainment including mariachis, troubadours and ballet folklóriko.
When: May 4-5, 2013
What are your plans for Cinco de Mayo in San Diego?