adminKansas City’s Cinco de Mayo celebration is rooted in the city’s Mexican heritage. Cinco de Mayo, and that signifies “the fifth of May” in Spanish, is an occasion that observes Mexico’s triumph over the French at the Skirmish of Puebla in 1862. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated not only in Mexico today, but also in numerous American communities. Kansas City is no different. The city’s Mexican-American population is well-known, and it celebrates this holiday with a variety of events and activities.
We’ll talk about some of the best Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Kansas City area in this article, including parades, festivals, traditional foods, and family-friendly events. Whether you’re hoping to move the night away, enjoy some flavorful Mexican cooking, or appreciate social exhibitions with your family, you’re certain to track down something fun and merry to do this Cinco de Mayo in Kansas City.
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations in Kansas City
There are plenty of Cinco de Mayo celebrations happening in the Kansas City area, so you won’t be short of options. Here are some of the most popular events to check out:
- Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at the Kansas City Power & Light District: This annual event is one of the biggest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the city. The fiesta features live music, traditional Mexican food and drinks, and festive decorations. Admission is free.
- Cinco de Mayo Parade in the Westside neighborhood: This colorful parade winds through the historic Westside neighborhood and features live music, dance performances, and cultural displays. The parade is free to attend and is a great way to experience the city’s Mexican-American culture.
- Cinco de Mayo Festival at Crown Center: This family-friendly festival features a wide variety of activities, including live music and dance performances, children’s activities, and food vendors. Admission is free.
- Cinco de Mayo Block Party at Martini Corner: This lively block party features live music, drink specials, and food vendors. The event is free to attend and is a great option if you’re looking for a fun night out with friends.
These are just a few of the many Cinco de Mayo celebrations happening in the Kansas City area. Be sure to check out local event listings and social media for even more options.
Food and Drink for Cinco de Mayo in Kansas City
No Cinco de Mayo celebration would be complete without some delicious Mexican food and drinks. Here are some of the top places in Kansas City to enjoy traditional cuisine and festive cocktails:
- Manny’s Mexican Restaurant: Manny’s has been a Kansas City staple for over 30 years, serving up classic Mexican fare like fajitas, tamales, and margaritas. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great spot for families and groups.
- El Patron Cocina & Bar: This upscale restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine, with dishes like lobster tacos and chile relleno stuffed with short ribs. The bar also features a variety of creative cocktails made with tequila and mezcal.
- Margarita’s: This popular chain restaurant has several locations around Kansas City, serving up classic Mexican dishes like chimichangas, burritos, and of course, margaritas. The atmosphere is festive and lively, making it a great spot for groups and parties.
No matter where you go for Cinco de Mayo, be sure to indulge in some delicious Mexican food and drinks to get in the festive spirit.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities to enjoy on Cinco de Mayo, there are plenty of options in Kansas City. Here are some of the top activities that both kids and adults will love:
- Fiesta at the Farmstead: This annual event takes place at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, Kansas, and features traditional Mexican music, dance performances, and crafts for kids. There are also food vendors selling Mexican cuisine, as well as face painting and other activities for children.
- Cinco de Mayo at the Kansas City Zoo: The zoo celebrates Cinco de Mayo with special animal encounters, live music, and traditional Mexican food and drinks. Kids can also participate in crafts and games inspired by Mexican culture.
- Cinco de Mayo Celebration at the Kansas City Public Library: The library hosts a family-friendly Cinco de Mayo celebration every year, featuring bilingual storytime, crafts, and performances by local musicians and dancers.
- Visit a local Mexican market: There are several Mexican markets in the Kansas City area that offer a unique cultural experience. Kids will love trying new foods and learning about traditional Mexican ingredients, while adults can shop for spices, produce, and other Mexican goods.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly activities happening in Kansas City on Cinco de Mayo. No matter what you choose, be sure to spend quality time with your loved ones and enjoy the vibrant culture of Mexico.
Safety Tips
While Cinco de Mayo is a fun and festive holiday, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe during the celebrations:
- Don’t drink and drive: If you plan on consuming alcohol, make sure to have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.
- Stay hydrated: If you’re spending time outdoors or dancing to live music, it’s important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Watch out for pickpockets: Crowded events can attract pickpockets and other petty thieves. Keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes: If you plan on walking or dancing, make sure to wear comfortable shoes that won’t cause blisters or other injuries.
- Follow COVID-19 guidelines: As of 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic is still a concern. Make sure to follow any guidelines put in place by local health authorities, such as wearing masks in crowded areas or practicing social distancing.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your Cinco de Mayo celebrations are both fun and safe. Remember to have a good time, but always prioritize your well-being and the well-being of others.
In the Kansas City area, Cinco de Mayo is a fun and exciting holiday with activities for everyone. There are plenty of ways to celebrate, including lively parties, delicious food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and a rich cultural experience. However, it is essential to keep safety in mind and adhere to health authorities’ recommendations. We can guarantee a safe and enjoyable Cinco de Mayo celebration in Kansas City’s vibrant and diverse community by doing so.
