By Anna Fitzgerald, Staff Writer

May 5 is just a normal day for some people, but for others, it is a day of celebration: Cinco de Mayo.

A common mistake made by many people is that Cinco De Mayo is the independence day of Mexico. That, however, is not true. Cinco De Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France in 1862. This particular battle occurred in the city of Puebla. Another common mistake made by people is that everyone in Mexico celebrates Cinco De Mayo, but it turns out that it is mostly celebrated by the people that live in Puebla. There are parades, street festivals and mariachi music. Surprisingly, many Americans celebrate Cinco De Mayo, even though it has almost nothing to do with them.

Reynolds High School sophomore Braden Kullman celebrates Cinco De Mayo every year with his family: “Cinco De Mayo is a day of happiness and fun. It brings out my inner culture.”

Each year, his family makes chicken and cheese enchiladas and goes to a neighborhood party: “I love the music, food, and energy on this day,” Kullman said.

Added sophomore Kendall Kane: “My family and I celebrate Cinco De Mayo with chips, salsa and a taco bar! We listen to a lot of Hispanic music that day, as well.”

Reynolds Spanish teacher Ginnieth Morrisey mentioned how special decorations are used during the holiday, including piñatas and paper mache. She also likes to do “something special with my students, like a fiesta.”

Mexican restaurants really into the spirit of the holiday.

“My cousin works at a local independent Mexican restaurant,” junior Darien Dancy said. “On Cinco De Mayo, they have to wear full-out Mexican outfits, as if they were in Puebla.”

Cities like Santa Ana, Calif., with large populations of Mexican-Americans, have large festivals that sometimes last until the evening of May 6. There are carnival rides, games and live entertainment. No matter where you live and even if you don’t have any Mexican heritage, Cinco de Mayo can still be a lot of fun. Who doesn’t love a day filled with food, music and friends? For those who have never celebrated this traditions, why not today? You won’t regret it!