About Cinco de Mayo

History of Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo, celebrated by Latinos and non-Latinos across the country, commemorates the victory of a heroic people and their struggle for freedom. On May 5, 1862, in the town of Puebla, the outnumbered Mexican army defeated French forces providing the momentum and national confidence to drive foreign power from their country. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of freedom and culture. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the tradition of freedom and acknowledges the beauty of Latino culture.

Cinco de Mayo Denver

The Cinco de Mayo Festival and Parade has deep roots in the Denver community as one of the largest and longest running cultural events in Colorado.

The Cinco de Mayo Festival and Parade is a fun family oriented event with special attractions, musical acts, Folklorico dancers, Mariachis and some of the most delicious Mexican cuisine Colorado has to offer.

The event was started in 1988 by NEWSED Community Development Corporation as a neighborhood street fair to showcase Mexican heritage.  By 1995, the festival had outgrown its location and moved to Denver’s Historic Civic Center Park where it took its place among Colorado’s top four outdoor food and entertainment events. Although the event attracts approximately 70% Hispanic attendees, a large cross section of the community is represented including all races and cultural heritages.

NEWSED Community Development Corporation

The Cinco de Mayo “Celebrate Culture” Festival is produced by NEWSED Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. Through our programming we conduct economic development in poor communities and provide affordable housing opportunities to low and moderate income families and individuals. In addition, we promote business development throughout the city of Denver. Established in 1973, NEWSED’s mission is to promote and develop economic, community programs and projects that raise the income, educational and political levels of West Denver residents.