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Mexican Independence Day vs. Cinco de Mayo: What’s the Difference?

mexican restaurant new hampshire

At California Burritos, we love celebrating Mexican culture, and that includes clearing up one of the biggest misconceptions about two important holidays: Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo. Spoiler alert: they’re not the same thing! Mexican Independence Day is tomorrow, September 16. This holiday is a great reason to celebrate and visit your favorite Mexican restaurant in New Hampshire.

 

Learn a little about Mexican Independence Day with us and stop by for some great food at our Mexican restaurant in New Hampshire.

 

What Is Mexican Independence Day?

Mexican Independence Day (El Grito de la Independencia) is celebrated on September 16th and marks the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence from Spanish rule. In the early hours of September 16, 1810, Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bell in Dolores, calling on the people to rise up against the Spanish authorities. The name of this historic moment is “El Grito de Dolores,” the battle cry that ignited a revolution.

Each year, Mexicans celebrate this day with fireworks, music, traditional foods, and patriotic displays of red, white, and green. In Mexico City, the President reenacts El Grito from the National Palace, just as Hidalgo did over 200 years ago.

 

What’s Cinco de Mayo, Then?

Cinco de Mayo, observed on May 5th, commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when a small Mexican army defeated a much larger French force. While an important moment in Mexican history, it’s not Mexico’s Independence Day.

Interestingly, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico, particularly among Mexican-American communities. It has become a broader celebration of Mexican culture, food, and heritage. You probably celebrated with a taco or burrito at our Mexican restaurant in New Hampshire this spring.

 

Celebrate with Your Favorite Mexican Restaurant in New Hampshire!

Speaking of celebrating, come to California Burritos to celebrate Mexican culture, independence, and delicious food this September 16th. Go for a tried-and-true favorite or try something new. Everything on our menu is delicious, authentic, and perfect for celebrating! We have four locations, so we’re also a convenient choice, no matter where your day takes you.

 

Make some time to celebrate with California Burritos! Visit any of our locations for burritos, tacos, and more.

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