May 5th is Cinco de Mayo and the week leading up to that date are very popular in the desert Southwest. This is a Mexican holiday celebrating their victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Mexican-Americans celebrate this ethnic and cultural event with pride.

Short distances away from Mexican boarder communities will be quiet and without fetivals, as this holiday is party time for those in or near the U S boarder. The holiday is also celebrated in the Mexican capital of Puebla and the Mexican state of Puebla. Some try to define this date as the Mexican independence day much like our 4th of July, which is actually celebrated on September 16.

If you are near any of the festivals, Go! No matter what your political affiliations are, you will find great food, beverages, music and decorations. If you can't find local celebrations, then have a party. The ingredients:

Food -

• Make this tasty meal faster than you can say "chili Pepper"! Tostada's

• For a tasty brunch meal try Chilaquiles

• Easy party fareChicken Tacos with Guacamole and Chipotle Pico de Gallo

• Don't forget the Nachos!

Drinks -

• Can't have Mexican festivities without a margarita!

• Beer! Cervesa! Look for Bohemia or Pacifico brand for a traditional beer. Of course, the staple in our area is Corona.

• For no alcohol and or low carb, try virgin margarita's. Just get some great margarita mix and blend with ice!

Music -

Choose Mariachi style music if you want authentic fiesta style atmosphere. Search online for traditional music artists. I found a female artist that is interesting.

Also search Amazon for Linda Ronstadt the album Canciones de Mi Padre. They have some samples of the songs. Really interesting.

Decorations -

Be inspired by the welcoming and friendly decorations of Mexico. A pack of colorful balloons and some bright streamers will go a long way to give your party space a festive flair.

• Pinatas - are a must have. Traditionally filled with candy and other small treats. The kids will love the challenge of "whacking" at the pinata until it bursts. Before the game begins, the pinata is part of your mainstay decorations.

• Lluminaries - paper lunch bags filled with 2" of sand and a votive (in a glass for safety) line the walkway or patio. Used in the evening these are a cheap typical decoration to add soft lighting.

• Party lights - Don't forget to light every area with colored or white lights. The more the better. These lights are great for safely lighting all dark areas. Make sure to keep track of any extension cords and that they are tucked out of traffic patterns.

• Choose bright colors for plates, napkins, tablecloth and cups. Use pink, turquoise, green, red yellow as your color scheme. Pick up a few maracas and a Sombrero for your centerpiece or a few potted flowering plants in various colors.

This site has a huge variety of Cinco de Mayo Party Supplies

Pinata and Candy Fiesta Package