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 3, from 11 a.m. to noon, a taco-eating contest (Sunday, May 4), lowrider car shows (Saturday and Sunday) and the famous Chihuahua race (Saturday, May 3)!
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
Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Museo de las Americas
WHEN: May 2, 2025; 5–9 p.m.
WHERE: Museo de las Americas
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Museo de las Americas! Enjoy an exciting evening filled with culture, dance and delicious food, including a captivating presentation of traditional Folklórico dancers.
WHEN: May 3, 2025
WHERE: Piney Creek Hollow Park, Centennial
This Cinco de Mayo, challenge yourself and celebrate resilience, community and culture at the Cinco de Mayo Run Against All Odds race! Whether you’re running for fun or for fitness, this event is all about pushing limits and embracing the spirit of overcoming obstacles — just like the holiday itself! Sign up for the 5K, 10K, half marathon or 1-mile family fun run. All registrants will receive a T-shirt, and finishers will receive a towel and medal!
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
WHEN: May 3, 2025
WHERE: Outlets at Castle Rock, Castle Rock
Get ready to fiesta like there’s no ‘mañana’ with the Outlets at Castle Rock on Cinco de Mayo! The afternoon will showcase performers dancing through the courtyard with dazzling garments and there will be fun-filled activities for shoppers of all ages!
Cinco de Mayo en Westwood
WHEN: May 3 & 4, 2025
WHERE: 3929 Morrison Rd.
The fifth annual Cinco de Mayo en Westwood community celebration honors the historical significance of the Batalla de Puebla and supports the cultural preservation of the Westwood community. All are welcome to come and enjoy two days of live music, cultural dance performances, lucha libre, local vendors, youth activities, art installations and delicious Mexican food!
WHEN: May 4, 2025
WHERE: Milepost Zero at McGregor Square
This isn’t your average Cinco celebration! The Milepost Zero Food Hall is going full send with a free high-flying Lucha Libre showdown, fire beats and drinks that hit different. Watch five action-packed matches of Lucha Libre and Pro-Wrestling from 2 to 4 p.m., featuring live commentary from comedians Nathan Lund and Mitch Jones, and enjoy tunes spun live by DJ Cinco before and after, along with Mexican food and drink specials.
