What is commemorated on May 5 in Mexico

May 5 is a very special date on the Mexican calendar . This day marks the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla in which the Mexican Army defeated the French troops. An unexpected victory that ratified the strength of our country and people.

May 5 is a date that is celebrated throughout Mexico , but also in the United States , a country where the May 5 holiday is celebrated even better than in Mexican territory. Find out more about this date below.

What happened on May 5, 1862?

On May 5, 1862 , a small untrained Mexican brigade, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, faced the powerful French army of Emperor Napoleon III; one of the largest in the world at the time and better prepared, although they lacked experience in our field.

The French army had the intention to invade Mexico , due to the non-payment of 80 million dollars. After 4 days of advancing from the coasts of Veracruz, these two sides faced each other in Puebla . The battle lasted all day and the Mexicans were victorious for the first time since the French had entered the territory.

On May 5 , it is a party that runs throughout the month in Puebla . During this month there is no shortage of colorful float parades, participants in typical costumes, a great gastronomic feast, mariachi festivities, concerts, fairgrounds and the representation of this great historical event.