by Bianca L. Granado 

Grab your sombrero, maracas and dancing shoes and join in the festivities at the annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4 on the Mesilla Plaza.

The celebration begins at noon on Saturday and will continue until midnight. Sunday’s events begin at noon and continue until 7 p.m. Emily Guerra will serve as master of ceremonies.

“With Mexico being so close to New Mexico and many people having such strong ties to a Mexican heritage, it is important to keep this cultural tradition alive,” said Kristie Medina, Special Events Coordinator for the Town of Mesilla.

The Cinco de Mayo celebration will include about 30 vendors offering a variety of products including arts, crafts, games, drinks and lots of food. Children will not be left out of the celebration as there will be piñatas and a greased pole climb. As is tradition with Cinco de Mayo celebrations, entertainment will include mariachis, ballet folklorico dance groups, flamenco dancers and live music.

Posters and advertisements for the fiesta will feature artwork by Mesilla Elementary School fifth-grade student Miranda Hernandez. Hernandez’s artwork was chosen as part of For the Love of Art Month in the Las Cruces/Mesilla area in February.

Cinco de Mayo, the Fifth of May, commemorates the victory of Mexican soldiers over the French army at historic Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although the Mexican army was eventually defeated the Battle of Puebla was a victorious and proud moment in history for Mexico as the smaller, poorly-armed soldiers defeated a larger, much more equipped French army.

There is no admissions charge for the festivities. Alcohol, smoking and pets are not allowed on the plaza. Attendees may bring folding chairs for their convenience. For more information, contact the Town of Mesilla at (575) 524-3262.

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