There is a notable tendency in this country to adapt certain days as an excuse for drinking in the streets and a big outdoor party. St. Patrick's Day has been that way for decades. Halloween has turned in that direction.
More recently it's been Cinco de Mayo. If I understand correctly, the day is of passing note in Mexico. It marks the anniversary of a victory by Mexican revolutionary forces over the French colonial armies (did you know that Mexico was for a time a colony of France in the 19th Century?) The big national celebration is Independence Day in September but Cinco de Mayo is all over the US now, sponsored by beer and tequila companies. Our town's party takes place on the nearest Saturday on Cherokee Street, the center of our small Hispanic community. This señorita has the good sense to stick to ice cream.
The festival is preceded by the People's Joy Parade. Lots of folk in this town have figured out that if you want a good time, just start a parade. Got a ton of good pix so more to come.
More recently it's been Cinco de Mayo. If I understand correctly, the day is of passing note in Mexico. It marks the anniversary of a victory by Mexican revolutionary forces over the French colonial armies (did you know that Mexico was for a time a colony of France in the 19th Century?) The big national celebration is Independence Day in September but Cinco de Mayo is all over the US now, sponsored by beer and tequila companies. Our town's party takes place on the nearest Saturday on Cherokee Street, the center of our small Hispanic community. This señorita has the good sense to stick to ice cream.
The festival is preceded by the People's Joy Parade. Lots of folk in this town have figured out that if you want a good time, just start a parade. Got a ton of good pix so more to come.
Downtown St. Louis 365 has dancing waters.
