Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo

There is a general misconception by many that Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican Independence Day.     Historically, Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of General Ignacio Zaragoza and a mere 5,000 battered Mestizo and Zapotec Indians’ victory over the occupying French forces in what became known as the “Batalla de Puebla” on May 5th, 1862.   The “Battle of Puebla Day” or “Battle of Cinco de Mayo” is recognized by some countries as a day of Mexican heritage and pride celebration.     The holiday has been celebrated in California since 1863 and is not observed in most of Mexico.

During the first weekend of May, Old Town, San Diego’s State Historic Park, celebrated their 27th Annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo 2010!    The weather couldn’t have been more perfect to enjoy the outdoor festivities in traditional San Diego style.    Early Sunday morning, we decided to take a trip to Old Town and enjoy the festivities, welcome the warm weather, take in some sights and enjoy some familiar hometown cuisine.

The main streets through the touristy Old Town were closed-off from automobile traffic and replaced with a myriad of food, merchandise and entertainment booths.     If you weren’t hungry when arriving to the State Historic Park, your condition quickly changed.   I could hear the grumbling cries from my stomach and sudden pangs of hunger as we approached the inviting aromas of food-laden booths and brunch service outdoors by the delicious assortment of restaurants. 

Bacon-Wrapped Hotdogs & Carne Asado Tacos w/Guacamole; Refreshing Fruit Juices & Horchata
Fresh Fruit Cocktails; Piña Colada Fruit Smoothies

Early risers were already flocking booths that had enticing food offerings and performance venues were hurriedly being assembled in preparation for the festive day’s planned entertainment.

Mariachi Imperial de San Diego; Navy Band Salsa Group
Ballet Folklorico Aquetzalli

There was definitely a lot to do and see. People were happy. Families making a day of it.   Close to the Mariachi performance I could hear abuelitos proudly singing along and children running through the grassy areas playing tag and eating sticky food.     Someone was blowing soap bubbles and kids of all ages were enjoying face paintings and made to order balloon sculptures, courtesy of a kindly gentleman posed as a balloon twister.

Food Booths Lure You; Roasted Corn Over Hot Coals & Equestrian Shows

With all the sight seeing, great music in the background by the Navy Band Salsa Group we had worked up an appetite! In Old Town, the best homemade corn tortillas are at the Old Town Mexican Cafe. There’s usually a long wait at this well-known Mexican food restaurant. Our wait this morning was going to be a mere 20 minutes so count us in! No better way to start the day before noon, than with a frosty Margarita!

It was a good, unplanned morning! Walking, sightseeing, eating, margaritas, did I mention eating? The best part of the day…spending it with my Man. Eating and drinking in warm weather turns your fiesta quickly into a siesta. So that’s exactly what we did.   After brunch we headed back to our humble abode and took a snooze.

Hope you have a great week and enjoyed your Cinco de Mayo celebrations!