Each year thousands flock to Old Town, San Diego’s oldest historic neighborhood to take a step back in time and celebrate Mexico’s vibrant culture! The FREE 2019 Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo will be celebrating 36 years of tradition packed with activities for ALL AGES. On Friday, May 3rd, Saturday, May 4th, and Sunday, May 5th Old Town will be transformed into the largest Cinco de Mayo extravaganza north of the border, filled with Mariachis, cervezas, authentic cuisine, a bustling Mercado, Lucha Libre wrestling, Ballet Folklorico, live entertainment, and an iconic display of unique lowriders. Before getting your pachanga (party) started this Cinco at Fiesta Old Town, you should get to know the history behind this rebellious celebration with a San Diego twist! Do you know the story?
Cinco de Mayo came about after Mexico defeated the French Army at the Batalla de Puebla (The Battle of Puebla) in 1862. Four thousand Mexican “rebels” defended the countryside armed with farm implements, antique rifles, and sheer guerilla force against the French army, who heavily outnumbered them. Today, at Fiesta Old Town Cinco De Mayo we celebrate the outstanding unity and resistance of Mexico, who on May 5th, 1862, defeated one of the world’s strongest armies at the time. Through FREE family-friendly activities Fiesta Old Town attendees can commemorate the heart, self-determination, and liberty of the Mexican rebel soldiers.
Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo will feature live entertainment, with over 40 Latin bands and groups, Mariachis and the Ballet Folklorico competition. Take a stroll through the iconic Lowrider Lane and be wowed by the rare paint jobs and car modifications that have become a Fiesta favorite. Don’t forget to grab your máscaras (masks) and head to the Lucha Libre wrestling matches, the rowdiest entertainment that is too thrilling to miss! Whether you’re there to see the costumes or the suspenseful three count pins, you can cheer on your favorite Luchadores all weekend, with wrestling matches scheduled throughout the night. All that grappling is sure to leave you hungry! Looking to challenge your spice tolerance? Check out the Cinco Specials from participating restaurants at Old Town’s top Mexican eateries or treat your taste buds to one of many vendors offering a wide selection of authentic cuisine, local grub, Aguas Frescas, and so much more! Stop by the bustling Mercado to get your authentic artisanal crafts ranging from handmade leather pieces and beautiful jewelry! With free activities for children, such as: face paintings, arts and crafts, and interactive educational elements, there is fun to be had for ALL AGES!
Hold onto to your caballos (horses)! There won’t be any time for a siesta with so many activities, specialty stores and museums to explore in the Historic Old Town. The Latin fever will be spreading like crazy and you won’t want to miss out in this opportunity to be surrounded by the history and culture of Mexico! Proceeds benefit the Historic Old Town Community Foundation. For additional information, please visit cincodemayooldtown.com.