Cinco de Mayo commemorates the victory of the outnumbered Mexican army over French forces, providing the momentum and national confidence for the Mexican people to drive the foreign power from their country. Today, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the tradition of freedom and acknowledges the beauty of Latino culture.
Denver's Cinco de Mayo "Celebrate Culture" Festival has been a Mile High tradition for more than three decades! Three stages will provide live entertainment from morning until evening, featuring mariachi, salsa, norteño and many other genres of Latino music and dance.
Other events during the festival include the annual Cinco de Mayo Community Parade on Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to noon, a taco-eating contest (Sunday, May 5, at 2 p.m.), lowrider car shows (Saturday and Sunday) and the famous Chihuahua race (Saturday, May 4, at 12 noon)!
As you stroll through Civic Center Park, check out vendors displaying Mexican folk art and handcrafted goods.
Food is a big part of Cinco de Mayo, and there will be plenty of it at the festival. Hundreds of vendors will be serving up tacos, enchiladas, burritos and more of the best Colorado Mexican cuisine. Green chile is a Denver culinary staple, so expect these offerings to be the best of the best.
For more information, see the event's website.
Other Events
WHEN: May 3, 2024
WHERE: Museo de las Americas
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Museo de las Americas with free admission all day long! Check out their current exhibition, Espíritu Hermosx, and enjoy an exciting evening filled with culture, dance and delicious food. Watch a captivating presentation by Ballet Folklórico Sangre de México while savoring tasty delights from Tia Sopapilla and sipping on refreshing beverages.
WHEN: May 3, 2024
WHERE: Spangalang Brewery
Secure your spot for a night of jazz magic! Reserve a table now at Spangalang Brewery's Cinco de Mayo Jazz Jam featuring Mistura Fina.
WHEN: May 3, 2024
WHERE: Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins
This late-night Cinco de Mayo party featuring DJ Javi is perfect for fans of Romeo Santos, Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, Shakira, Marc Anthony and other Latin artists!
WHEN: May 4–5, 2024
WHERE: Jaguar Room (at Con Safos)
This Cinco de Mayo weekend, join an all-access fiesta at Denver's best bars and restaurants! Savor featured taco and margarita pairings with fun giveaways along the way! The party starts at Jaguar Room (at Con Safos) and also include venues like Sidecar Lounge, The Refinery, Sonny's Tacos and more. Choose a Saturday or Sunday ticket or both.
WHEN: May 5, 2024
WHERE: Mission Ballroom
It's more than a concert. It's a celebration that honors Cinco de Mayo and showcases bass music artist Mersiv's deep Mexican roots through a day filled with music, culture and community. The festivity kicks off with a vibrant daytime block party and transitions into an evening concert. Attendees will enjoy a lineup that reflects Mexican heritage, authentic cuisine and live performances, including mariachi — all curated to foster a spirit of community and cultural diversity.
WHEN: May 5, 2024
WHERE: Le Méridien Denver Downtown
Enjoy a special fiesta menu featuring three new taco dishes! As guests arrive, they’ll be welcomed with a complimentary ice luge shot as the talented DJ Mike Majic keeps the beats flowing and the energy high. A photo booth, courtesy of Patrón Tequila, will be available to capture the memorable event. This party will offer a sneak peek of what’s to come at 54thirty’s new weekly Tuesday happening, Tequila-Tacos-Tunes, which will run from May 7 to Sept. 25, and will feature the specialty menu.
