Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Howell

Cue up the mariachi band—Cinco de Mayo is fast approaching.

The celebration of Mexican heritage on May 5 is sometimes mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day. However, Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla, a turning point in Mexican history and freedom. 

In the U.S., it is celebrated by observing Mexican culture through food, drinks and dancing. If you are looking for a fiesta with margaritas, live bands and authentic food, read on for the best places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the greater Howell area.

• Juanito's 2 on Route 9 is open from noon to 9 p.m. on Sundays.
• The Cabin Restaurant on Route 33 will hold Corona specials all day on Cinco De Mayo.
• Restaurants in Downtown Freehold will hold a pub crawl on Cinco De Mayo. Options include $20 for a beer crawl and $30 for a magarita crawl. The American Hotel, Federici's, the Court Jester and Metropolitan Cafe will participate. You can order your tickets online. Tickets will also be available at the Court Jester and Federici's on the day of the crawl.
• Escondido, which recently reopened with a new interior and menu in Freehold, will start its Cinco De Mayo celebration at 11 a.m. The event features contests, giveaways, a roving magician, a live mariachi band, night-time DJ, an outside bar, food and Corona kiosks. The giveaways and prizes include win Yankees tickets, Blue Claw tickets, a Corona Bike, Cantina Coolers, and gift certificates.
• Texas Mexican Restaurant in Freehold is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays.
• El Meson in Freehold is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays.

TELL US: Where do you plan to celebrate on May 5? Share in the comments below!