Cinco ideas for Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It became an American tradition to celebrate all things Mexicano as far back as 1863, right here in Southern California. So there’s no better place than Los Angeles to have a big old fiesta with these Cinco Ideas for Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles, with one bonus idea for good measure.

Olvera Street (Downtown Los Angeles)

Start your day on a historic note with the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in the birthplace of Los Angeles on Olvera Street in downtown. The day begins as early as 10 a.m. with Guided Tours that trace the city’s early history. There will also be musical guests, shopping, and a kids’ area. Happy Hour Drink Specials run from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tocaya Modern Mexican (Various)

Tocaya is serving up All-Day Happy Hour featuring $3 Beers, $6 Wines, and Sides starting at $2. There’s also a brand new Watermelon Margarita on the menu featuring Espolón blanco, watermelon, lime, agave, mint, and Tajín – and you can take $2 off for Cinco de Mayo.

Tocaya Cinco de Mayo — Photo Credit: Tocaya

El Torito & Acapulco (Various)

These two restaurants under the Xperience Restaurant Group umbrella have been instrumental in the fast-casual Mexican restaurant movement. They are offering serious deals all weekend long for Cinco de Mayo.

Visit El Torito beginning Saturday, May 3rd, for an ALL-DAY HAPPY HOUR, which includes $4 Margaritas. On Sunday, May 4th, you can enjoy ALL-DAY HAPPY HOUR and a Mariachi Brunch. Finally, on Monday, May 5th, enjoy similar Happy Hour Specials, $2 Street Tacos, and Free Merch.

At Acapulco, you can expect the same Cinco Worthy Specials.

Socalo (Santa Monica)

Socalo in Santa Monica from Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken is celebrating with a big Cinco de Mayo One-Night-Only Celebration! Beginning at 4 p.m., the restaurant will be hosting Mezcal Tastings by Hedonistas on the patio and Exclusive Dishes made only for Cinco de Mayo, which, since it falls on a Monday, is usually a night the restaurant is closed, making it extra especial.

Make your reservations here.

Westfield Topanga – Topanga Social (Canoga Park)

Westfield Topanga is hosting a FREE Event on Sunday, May 4th from 1 to 6 p.m. that pairs perfectly with that top you just bought. Head to Topanga Social for a Taco Tent from Cilantro Lime, a Mexican Lager Beer Tent, “Dole Whip Frose” Margaritas, and more. There will also be live music.

El Carmen (Beverly Grove)

Historic 1920s restaurant El Carmen starts the party at 2 p.m. with Extended Happy Hour until 7 p.m. Then, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., you can enjoy $10 Classic Margaritas. The Mariachis arrive at 5 p.m.