Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Milwaukee the authentic way

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- While Cinco de Mayo is commonly celebrated in the United States, it marks not Mexico's Independence Day, despite common misconceptions, but rather the anniversary of Mexico's 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla.

The day represents a symbolic triumph in the resistance movement, mostly celebrated in Puebla, Mexico, rather than nationwide.

Locally, Milwaukee's UMOS at 2701 South Chase Ave. will host a Cinco de Mayo festival starting Saturday, May 4 at 11 a.m. The event includes a vintage car show and the unique "Ay Chihuahua Beauty Contest" at 2 p.m., followed by a hot tamale eating contest at 2:30 p.m. and a piñata party at 3 p.m. with all activities being free to the public.

Los Compadres in Burlington will offer "Margaritas and Market" on Sunday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring food, drinks, local vendors and giveaways.

In Milwaukee, the Zocalo Food Truck Park on South Sixth Street will also participate in the festivities from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering food, tequila tastings and live music.

Although many local Hispanic business owners do not celebrate the day, they welcome the increased business brought alongside the celebration.

Additional events include the tenth annual Latino Art Festival in Madison on Saturday and Frida & Palomas Paint & Sip at Zócalo on Sunday.