One of the most important and celebrated dates of the year falls in the month of May, the most important historical event ever mentioned in history books and within our Mexican culture, the Battle of Puebla.
For those who live in Puebla, this fact is even more important because the streets are filled with festivity and each citizen celebrates the triumph of its town, to be part of this state so full of culture and history.
What exactly is the Battle of Puebla about?
The Battle of Puebla took place on May 5, 1862 near the city of Puebla (Mexico), in the attack and defense of Loreto Fort and Guadalupe Fort, during the French invasion of Mexico. In Mexico it is commemorated with the “Cinco de Mayo”. It was an important Mexican victory with global resonance, because it defeated to the army more experienced and reputed of the time.
In 1861, after the long struggle known as the “Three-Year War,” Mexico was in poor economic and political conditions. He was heavily indebted to Spain, France, and England. That is why Benito Juárez, who had recently been elected President of Mexico, declared a moratorium that would last two years, meaning that he agreed not to pay them during this time for Mexico to recover.
This decision did not please the foreign nations, and so the French, Spanish, and English came to Mexico in order to collect the debt by force.
How the battle started
Juarez asked them to come to a friendly settlement. As a result of the negotiations, they produced a document called the Agreements or Treaties of Soledad and accepted the proposal of Juárez on the payment of the debt. In this meeting, they also recognized the government of Juárez; Declared that they would respect national integrity and independence. Spain and England complied with the agreements, but France did not and sent troops to invade the country, so it broke the Alliance.
It was May 5, 1862 when General Laurencez commanding French troops ordered the strong assault of Loreto and Guadalupe, who defended the city of Puebla under the command of General Ignacio Zaragoza; The invading army was rejected with heavy losses while it tried to take the fortifications repeatedly, finally they had to leave the field and retire defeated and persecuted by the Mexican cavalry.
Celebrating May 5th
Finally, the French army was defeated, and General Ignacio Zaragoza sent a telegraphic message to President Juárez, who said that “national arms have covered with glory”
The Battle of Puebla symbolizes the spirit of struggle and the love of independence that characterizes the Mexican people. Today is celebrated this day performing civic ceremonies, in many cities parades are held. And it is also customary to represent the struggle of that day with people personified, both Mexican and French.
How to celebrate May 5th in Cancun?
Cancun, besides being a dreamy destination, is the perfect place to enjoy May 5th because it’s the only one that gives you an exciting experience.
From the delicious gastronomy to the Mexican colors that surround the place, everything is perfect to celebrate this special day, but how? Here are some ideas to celebrate it:
Take a ride on the trajineras of Xoximilco
Xoximilco is a place located in the Riviera Maya, next to Xavage. Both are Xcaret parks, but Xoximilco is representative of Mexico, where you’ll find delicious Mexican cuisine on board a trajinera (a small boat) while listening to regional music by mariachis. That’s not all! The best of the best is that you can also dance at the same time with your friends, family, your partner, or anyone else.
Mexican food is cooked on the spot. Xoximilco offers authentic dishes such as mole, cochinita pibil, tamales, and much more, accompanied by an open bar where you’ll taste juices, beers, and tequila.
In addition, the trajinera makes a brief stop at “El Pueblito”, where people can purchase souvenirs at “El Xangarrito”, the official store of Xoximilco. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a musical show at the “palapa” of “El Pueblito”.
If you want to enjoy a pleasant night to celebrate May 5th, Xoximilco is the perfect spot to celebrate it with your loved ones.
Celebrate May 5th, Battle of Puebla, at Señor Frog’s Cancun!
Señor Frog’s is a restaurant in Cancun located at kilometer 9.5 of Bvld. Kukulkan in the Hotel Zone. This restaurant offers Mexican food in the middle of the party, and the fun, ideal for people who want to have fun to the fullest.
Spend a fun day drinking tequila, eating Mexican food, and dancing to the best music and hits.
Book a resort in Cancun
There are many all-inclusive resorts in Cancun with stunning beachfront views. Depending on the resort, you’ll have special discounts on the occasion of May 5th, for example, the All Ritmo Cancun Hotel is offering a special offer by booking from today and traveling from May 1st to May 5th, 2025. This offer included a breakfast bracelet and up to 2 kids staying free.
If you reserve in any hotel or resort in Cancun, it’s also likely that there will be a special event on this date.
Conclusion
On May 5th, the Battle of Puebla became a celebration of Mexico’s victory. Cancun is a destination of great interest for those looking to experience Mexican culture on May 5th, combining paradisiacal beaches, history, and traditions.