May 5 is Cinco de Mayo in Spanish, commonly seen a celebration of Mexican culture, heritage and pride.
But Latino Americans say it's a very misunderstood celebration here in the States. For starters, it's not Mexican Independence Day.
"Cinco de Mayo commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862," says Darlene Kattan, Executive Director of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana. Mexican Independence Day is September 16.
Listen to Don Ames' interview with Darlene Kattan of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce:
Another surprise for many is that Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more here in New Orleans than it is in Mexico.
South of the border, the day is not that big a deal.
"In the New Orleans area, I'm surprised...it's become very, very, very big," says Azucena Diaz, host of a music show on Hispanic Radio Station KGLA, Radio Tropical 1540 here in New Orleans.
Listen to Don Ames' interview with Azucena Diaz:
Diaz says Cinco de Mayo is a minor, regional holiday in Mexico, mainly in Puebla, with some limited recognition in other parts of Mexico.
"In the United States, it's celebrated with big events. In Mexico, we do not celebrate it." Diaz says the big celebrations in Mexico are for Independence Day and Revolution Day, November 20.
Kattan and Diaz say the "celebration" of Cinco de Mayo is largely a result of promotions in the U.S. by liquor and beer companies, bars and restaurants since the 1980s.
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