‘Cinco de Mayo’ in Spanish means ‘Fifth of May’ and originally commemorated the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla. The smaller, Mexican forces were poorly outfitted and won against the much larger, better equipped French army and boosted morale for the Mexicans.

Over the years, ‘Cinco de Mayo’ has become a day to celebrate Mexican culture, music, mariachi, dance – baile folklorico, cuisine and heritage around the world. The day became popular in 1980 when many companies, especially beer companies, began promoting the day.

‘Cinco de Mayo’ is now celebrated around the world, including in Canada, South Africa, Nigeria, France and Japan. In 2005, the United States Congress asked the President of the United States to issue a proclamation asking the U.S. to observe ‘Cinco de Mayo’ with ceremonies and events..

Today, 77 WABC Radio is celebrating ‘Cinco de Mayo’ with special guest interviews throughout the day on-air! You won’t want to miss it!