Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Although I am fully aware that this is a holiday mostly celebrated in America (more so than in Mexico), it began to honor Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
Now, it is a time to celebrate Mexican-American culture. Restaurants, communities and some households make a big deal out of the day.
Certainly, marketing campaigns by businesses such as beer distributors and party suppliers helped it become more popular and relevant in our culture.
Nonetheless, I’m all for it.
I enjoy any good reason to celebrate. I appreciate Mexican cuisine, color and all that comes with Cinco de Mayo.
We’re planning to host some friends and family at home with tacos, flautas with ricotta cheese filling, guacamole and other Mexican specialties.
We’ll decorate a bit, listen to some Spanish tunes and play Loteria (a Mexican board game of chance, similar to bingo), which I got to play during my last trip to Mexico in November.
Many local establishments are also getting in the spirit today.
There’s a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Mohegan Pennsylvania in The Hive Taphouse and at Embers Terrace, starting after 2 p.m. Based on my research, there will be tacos, quesadillas and nachos, as well as jalapeno margaritas, Prosecco, banana rum drink concoctions and more.
It seems like a lively way to spend the day, and perhaps there will still be some stragglers from the Kentucky Derby continuing their party.
Additionally, the Tipsy Turtle in Pittston is featuring musical duo Jeanne Zanno & Gary Flanagan from 2 to 5 p.m. The party will offer $5 margaritas and $3.50 Corona bottles. The kitchen is preparing chicken fajitas and chicken quesadillas. Prizes and giveaways are also assured.
Another spot is The Loft Wine Bar in Scranton. They will also have $5 margaritas and a Mexican food truck from noon to 4 p.m. with their outdoor patio open.
The final location on my list is Nearme Café in Moosic. It’s hosting a Cinco de Mayo deck party with a taco bar and all the fixings (plus, guacamole is not extra, they say). That takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. today.
These are just a small sampling of the many opportunities available if you make it out and about.
I encourage everyone to look up local events or specials near them and take part in some fun.
If you’d rather stay home and cook, that can be enjoyable too.
A day like Cinco de Mayo is truly a great day to celebrate because, in my opinion, it’s about hope, fortitude and unity.
Spend it with people you love and have a good time.
