5 Ways To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo In Falmouth

FALMOUTH, MA — On Cinco de Mayo this year on Cape Cod, a conductor will be screaming all aboard the brunch train.

The Cape Cod Central Railroad is set to host the inaugural Cinco de Mayo brunch train departing from Hyannis. Served on board will be chips and guacamole as well as a number of special drinks and other dishes.

It's just one of the ways that people on the Cape will be celebrating the holiday.
Wequassett Resort & Golf Club will also be hosting a celebration at the resort's bar and grille starting at 10 a.m.

For those just looking to grab a bite to eat while they sip on a margarita or Victoria, here are a few local options around the Cape:

• Añejo Mexican Bistro, Falmouth
• Sam Diego's, Hyannis
• Mi Pueblo, Hyannis

Hundreds of U.S. cities are celebrating Cinco de Mayo this weekend in a nod to Mexican culture and heritage, but the May 5 holiday is distinctly American.

Cinco de Mayo observes the date of the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the outnumbered Mexican army defeated Napoleon III’s powerful French troops, who were occupying the area seeking unpaid debts. A common misconception confuses the holiday with Mexican Independence Day, or El Día de la Independencia, which is Sept. 16.

The holiday was popularized as a U.S. celebration by Latinos in California and the Pacific Northwest who, upon learning of the Battle of Puebla, formed organizations that raised money for Mexican troops.

• Read more: 5 Things To Know About Cinco De Mayo, A Minor Holiday In Mexico

The Chicano Movement of the 1970s raised the profile of Cinco de Mayo, using the David vs. Goliath storyline of more than 100 years prior as emblematic of the struggles of Mexican Americans in the Southwest to overcome institutional racism, create cultural harmony, and gain equality in labor and politics.

Cinco de Mayo as many Americans today know it is a drinking day to knock back a few tequila shots. Parades, parties, mariachi music, Mexican folk dancing and traditional foods are also a big part of today’s Cinco de Mayo festivals.