It appears as if Americans are the only people in the world who actually celebrate Cinco de Mayo – or even know what it is for that matter. But because we have two American staff members here at That’s Beijing, we decided it was our patriotic duty to assemble a guide to Beijing’s very few Cinco de Mayo celebrations. And yes, we are aware that it isn't actually an American holiday.
For all of you non-Americans out there who have zero clue what the hell we’re babbling about, Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for Five of May or May 5th) actually commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the much more powerful French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. (FYI, most Americans will tell you that it’s Mexican Independence Day, but that’s not actually the case.)
Americans get far more excited about Cinco de Mayo than Mexicans, even though it’s not even technically their holiday. And for some unknown reason they have been celebrating the rather obscure occasion with sombreros, guacamole and tequila shooters ever since the 1960s.
We love Cinco de Mayo here at That’s Beijing (well, at least us Americans do), so we were thrilled to see that there are at least five events going on in the city to celebrate the occasion.
May 5: Cinco de Mayo @ The Local
The Local is celebrating Cinco de Mayo by providing complimentary ceviche with every classic rocks margarita. So even if you have no idea what Cinco de Mayo is, margaritas and free appetizers are enough reason to celebrate. Plus, there will be fish tacos, nachos, chips and fresh guac.
Thu May 5, 5pm-12am; The Local, see event listing for details.
May 5: Cinco de Mayo @ Q Mex
Q Mex is serving up some great food and drink deals to celebrate the occasion. You can get the following for RMB55: one Mexican Bulldog (Corona), six tequila shots, three Coronas and all tacos. There will also be Latin music by DJ Eli. Make sure to get there early to get your free sombrero!
Thu May 5, 5pm-2am; Q Mex, see event listing for details.
May 5: Double Fisting Thursdays @ Palms
Head over to Palms tonight for their signature Double Fisting Thursdays. Tacos and booze – there’s really no better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
Thu May 5. 5.30-8pm. Palms LA, see event listing for details.
May 5: Mexican Victory Day @ Tiki Bungalow
Tiki Bungalow is giving away free black pepper tequila shots to everyone in the bar. It’ll happen every hour on the hour from 7pm until midnight – so get ready to party! FYI, the first 20 customers will get free shots at the door. Standard margaritas, El Diablos and Brave Bulls are all RMB35.
Thu May 5. 7pm-12am. Tiki Bungalow, see event listing for details.
May 6: Cinco de Mayo @ Cantina Agave
Well, it’s not technically Cinco de Mayo but we appreciate the effort. It is, after all, unfortunate that the real holiday lands on a work night. So, thanks to the folks over at Cantina Agave you can feel free to imbibe all night and recover in the comfort of your own home instead of at your office desk. They’ll be celebrating with BOGO margaritas, beer and sangria. There will be free Mexican snacks and DJ Jäger Zhadan will there too.
Fri May 6, 7pm-1am; Cantina Agave, see event listing for details.
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