Cinco de Mayo falls on a Sunday this year and the Bay Area is gearing up for the festivities. Law enforcement in the region will also be preparing for a busy day.
Various agencies, such as the San Jose and Oakland Police Departments, will ramp up activity on Sunday. It is expected that there will be more officers on the roads.
Both San Jose and Oakland will be wary of sideshows, which have proven disruptive in recent years.
What is Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo marks the anniversary of Mexican forces’ victory over invading French forces in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. The victory over the better equipped and more numerous French troops was a huge emotional boost for the Mexican soldiers led by General Ignacio Zaragoza.
Historical reenactments and parades are held annually in the city of Puebla in central Mexico to commemorate the inspiring victory, with participants dressed in historic French and Mexican army uniforms.
Since May 5 is more popular in the US, there was some confusion that May 5 was Mexico’s Independence Day, which is actually September 16.
Partying in San Francisco
Parties in the South Bay
- Parade and festival in downtown San Jose
Plaza de Cesar Chavez, parade from 9am to 11am; party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m - East San Jose Cinco de Mayo Parade and Festival
Mexican Heritage Plaza, Alum Rock and King Road Parade from 10 a.m. to noon; Emma Pruispark, festival 12 noon to 4 p.m - Festival 5 de Mayo
Santa Clara County Fairgrounds – Gate D, 12 p.m
