News Summary
Southern California is all set for a lively Cinco de Mayo weekend with festivities in various cities. Events include the Bowers Museum’s festival featuring music and crafts, a 5K run at Bolsa Chica State Beach, and the 35th annual fiesta in San Clemente. Enjoy unique culinary experiences at local restaurants, illuminated displays at Santa Monica Pier, and cultural performances throughout the region, culminating in family-friendly celebrations that highlight community spirit and local traditions.
Southern California Gears Up for a Vibrant Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Get ready for a fun-filled weekend in Southern California as cities across the region gear up for an exciting celebration of Cinco de Mayo! From music and dance to scrumptious food and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this festive occasion.
Bowers Museum’s Annual Festival
It all kicks off on May 4th at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, where the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival will be held. This festival is part of the museum’s monthly free family festivals and promises an array of activities for all ages. Expect live music, cultural performances, and hands-on arts and crafts to keep the little ones entertained. Don’t forget to treat yourself to some delicious sweet treats that will be available throughout the event!
Run and Revelry at Bolsa Chica State Beach
On the same day, folks can participate in the Cinco De Miles 5K and 5 MILE run at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to have a little fun, various options will be available, including a 5K, 5 miles, a 1-mile fun run, and a 400-yard race for kids! After you run, you can enjoy mariachi music and watch amazing folclórico dancing, all while munching on festive foods!
Celebrating 35 Years in San Clemente
San Clemente will be getting in on the action as well, celebrating its 35th annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta on May 3rd at Max Berg Plaza Park. Admission is free, and you won’t want to miss the lively folclórico dancing, mariachi performances, and the chance to browse local crafts and food vendors!
Savoring Tastes in Irvine and Costa Mesa
If you’re in Irvine, Taco Rosa will feature a special pop-up barbacoa stand offering $3 tacos inspired by the vibrant flavors of Hidalgo starting on May 5th. Pair that with handcrafted margaritas and premium tequilas for a truly festive experience. Meanwhile, Descanso in Costa Mesa will host a celebration from May 2nd through May 5th, complete with food and drink specials, plancha dining, and live music—perfect for soaking in the festive spirit!
Illuminating Santa Monica Pier
Make sure to also check out the Pacific Wheel at Santa Monica Pier, which will illuminate a nine-story Mexican flag starting the evening of May 3rd through May 5th. It will be a stunning sight at sunset, making it a beautiful backdrop for your celebrations!
Festive Experiences Across Los Angeles
The El Pueblo de Los Angeles will hold the Cinco Olvera Fest! on May 5th, featuring dance and music performances that celebrate the rich culture. Over in Venice, you won’t want to miss the Historical Venice Cinco de Mayo Parade & Festival at Oakwood Recreation Park, with Aztec dancers, Mexican dancing horses, and a lineup of food trucks to satisfy your cravings!
Rose Bowl and Smorgasburg Celebrations
The Rose Bowl takes the festivities up a notch on May 4th with a craft marketplace, the COPA Aztlan Youth Soccer Tournament, and a movie screening of “Coco.” And for taco lovers, Smorgasburg LA will host Cinco de Miches on May 5th at ROW DTLA, featuring what’s touted as the best taco crawl in the city—free entry included!
Unique Events and Charitable Contributions
For a unique twist, Miss Rita’s Lucha VaVOOM is presenting “Cinco Unchained” on May 4th, which promises an entertaining blend of masked wrestlers, lowriders, and delectable tamales. Citadel Outlets will add to the excitement by hosting dance performances every hour from noon to 3 p.m. on May 4th and 5th, all for free!
As if that wasn’t enough, Pitfire Pizza and Sonoratown are teaming up to create a special chivichanga pizza available on May 5th, with proceeds supporting No Us Without You, a charity for food relief in the undocumented community. Dining specials will be available at Tocaya Modern Mexican, where you can snag free chips and guacamole for orders over $15. Plus, Descanso Gardens will host a delightful Cinco de Mayo brunch on both May 4th and 5th.
Looking Ahead
And don’t forget: After all the Cinco de Mayo festivities, car enthusiasts can look forward to a lowrider gathering at the Petersen Automotive Museum on May 11th. This celebration is all about family, culture, food, and community spirit, making it an exciting time to live or visit Southern California!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Descanso Restaurant
Additional Resources
- Orange Coast: 5 Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Orange County
- NBC Los Angeles: Fiestas Galore! Find Cinco de Mayo Events
- LA Times: Pitfire Pizza Partners with Sonoratown for Cinco de Mayo
- Mommy Poppins: Free Cinco de Mayo Celebrations for Families
- OC Register: Santa Ana’s Annual Cinco de Mayo Event
- Wikipedia: Cinco de Mayo
- Google Search: Cinco de Mayo celebrations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cinco de Mayo
- Google News: Cinco de Mayo
