LOS ANGELES CINCO DE MAYO EVENTS

So, why Cinco de Mayo? And why should Americans savor this day as well? Because 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862.
For a little more history see Cinco De Mayo

Fiesta Broadway (April 26)

Taking over 24 square blocks of Downtown LA, Fiesta Broadway is officially the largest Cinco de Mayo event in the world. More than 500,000 people take to the streets to check out the fiesta's exhibition booths and seemingly endless lineup of performers. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.fiestabroadway.com.

What better place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than at this historic landmark. Each year, crowds come together to celebrate with music, cultural displays and food. Highlights include traditional folk dances and piñata breaking for the children. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. www.cityofla.org/elp.

If authenticity resonates with you, head to the Cinco de Mayo celebration at Monterey Park. The city has put together a schedule filled with tradition: mariachis, folk ballet and singers will perform throughout the day. Meanwhile, visitors will have the opportunity to win prizes from raffle drawings. 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Barnes Park Amphitheatre. www.ci.monterey park.ca.us.

Viva El Cinco Family Festival at the Autry National Center (May 3)

The Autry National Center at Griffith Park hosts a celebration big on education. Guests will be able to learn about all the details of this famous day and tour the "Bold Caballeros y Noble Bandidas" exhibitions, while the museum’s café will serve up handmade tortillas, tacos and salsa. Tons of children's activities will be available, including a coloring station, puppet shows, an art demonstration and more. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.autrynationalcenter.org.

Cinco de Mayo Celebrations with Univision Radio (May 3)

Taking place just south of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Lot 6, Univision Radio's Cinco de Mayo celebration features food, arts and crafts and live performances from Arrolladora Banda el Limon, Yurida, Julión Alvarez and more. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.