Cinco de Mayo translates to the fifth of May and is known as the celebration of the day Mexico won the Battle of Puebla, defeating the French in 1862. In the United States, it is known for its block parties, massive margaritas, and dancing. With Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, Baltimoreans are gearing up for a multi-day fiesta. Spice up your weekend with these six celebrations.
Barcocina: If you like to salud by the water, head to this Fells Point favorite for Fiesta de Mayo. Enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor while partying at sunset, featuring $8 tequila shots, $4 rotating chef-selected street tacos, and $10 top-shelf Patrón margaritas. On Monday, be sure to bring your appetite. Spend $50 on their Mexican-inspired cuisine and get a $10 gift card or spend $100 and get a $20 gift card for a future feast. 1629 Thames St. 410-563-1500
Bmore Taqueria: While you’re in Fells Point, be sure to stop by Chef Valentin Sandoval’s taqueria, known for their Mexico City street tacos. Starting May 3 through May 5, enjoy Bmore Taqueria’s Cinco de Mayo specials all weekend. Indulge in tacos for $3.50 while sipping $4 draft beers, and, on Saturday, dance to live music by División Mayúscula. 1733 Eastern Ave. 443-873-8973
El Paraiso: If you’re looking to get out of the city, head to Reisterstown and visit this family-owned restaurant and bakery, specializing in Salvadoran and Latin American cuisine. Typically closed on Mondays, the eatery will be open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy classics like tacos and fajitas—or opt for Chesapeake-inspired crab pupusas. Dine in is first-come first-serve, but they recommend ordering online for faster service. 11628 Reisterstown Rd., Reisterstown. 410-833-3369
La Calle: Don’t be afraid to stop by the place whose been counting down the days till Cinco de Mayo since the beginning of April. Celebrations start at 1 p.m. on Monday with tacos, margaritas, and music. For $6, opt for one of their two-taco specials in iterations such as cochinita pibil and carnitas poblanos. 623 S Broadway. 443-835-2215
La Palapa Grill & Cantina: Take a trip down to Ellicott City for Five Days of Cinco de Mayo. Beginning on Friday from 6 to 10 p.m., hang out with DJ Levi to support first responders with raffles and a silent auction. Come back on Saturday for live Spanish rock music courtesy of Bad Hombres and a tequila tasting. The party continues on Monday with dancing, live music, and drink and food specials. 8307 Main Street, Ellicott City. 410-465-0070
Papi’s Tacos: Make your way back to Fells Point and join Papi’s in celebrating Cinco de Mayo all weekend. Enjoy specialty sips like $7 house margaritas, $5 Mexican beers, and $5 tequila shots through Monday. 1703 Aliceanna St. 443-438-9144