Cinco ideas for Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It became an American tradition to celebrate all things Mexicano as far back as 1863, right here in Southern California. So there’s no better place than Los Angeles to have a big old fiesta with these Cinco ideas for Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street (Downtown Los Angeles)

Start your day on a historic note with the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in the birthplace of Los Angeles on Olvera Street in downtown. The day begins as early as 10 a.m. with Guided Tours that trace the city’s early history. There will also be musical guests, shopping, and a kids’ area. Happy Hour Drink Specials run from 3 to 6 p.m.

El Torito & Acapulco (Various)

These two restaurants under the Xperience Restaurant Group umbrella have been instrumental in the fast-casual Mexican restaurant movement. They are offering serious deals all weekend long for Cinco de Mayo.

Visit El Torito beginning Friday, May 3rd, for an ALL-DAY HAPPY HOUR, which includes $4 Margaritas. Saturday, May 4th, features drink specials like $12 House Margaritas and $8 tequila shots. On Sunday, May 5th, enjoy an All-You-Can-Eat Brunch with Bottomless Mimosas from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Cinco de Mayo Specials from 3 p.m. to close.

At Acapulco, you can expect something similar on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday’s Brunch will showcase $12 Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Socalo (Santa Monica)

Socalo in Santa Monica from Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken is celebrating with a big 4th of Mayo Fiesta! The preview begins Friday, May 3rd when their Watermelon Margarita with Codigo Tequila will be specially priced at $12.

On May 4th, things start to heat up with Brunch as early as 9:30 a.m. Happy Hour runs from 3 to 5 p.m. with $4.25 Tacos and $8 Cocktails. Do you like Mariachi? The performances begin at 7 p.m. which pairs perfectly with Dinner. Make your reservations here.

Chicas Tacos at All Season Brewing (Mid-City)

Chicas Tacos at All Season Brewing is having a fiesta like no one else. Taking place on Cinco de Mayo from from Noon to 8 pm, guests can participate in Taco Eating Contests, Booze-filled Piñata Smashing, and enter to win a Trip to Mexico’s Wine Country! There will be Giveaways along with a Mexican Wine and Tequila Tasting. Oh, and did I mention it’s FREE? Just make your reservations on Eventbrite.

El Carmen (Beverly Grove)

Historic 1920s restaurant El Carmen is starting the party at Noon with Drink Specials like $10 Palomas and Margaritas. The Mariachi Band will be there from 5 to 7 p.m.

Wanna share your Cinco ideas for Cinco de Mayo with others? Repin the image below. It’s always better with amigos.