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 plus one extra 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 4 to 7 p.m.

Tocaya Cinco de Mayo (Various)

Stop into any Tocaya Modern Mexican all week long for their Cinco Ways to Celebrate! Specials include $2 Tacos, $3 Cervezas, and $5 Margaritas from 3 to 6 p.m. daily May 1st through the 5th.

El Granjero Cantina (Fairfax)

El Granjero Cantina at The Original Farmers Market is the perfect spot to enjoy your Cinco after a day of shopping at The Grove. There will be Taco and Cocktail specials, Live DJ Music, Games, and a Photo Booth.

Hours are 3 to 8 p.m.

Tallula’s (Santa Monica)

Party it up just a stone’s throw away from the PCH or at your own casa with these Tallula’s happenings. Along with the usual menu, they are setting up a Satellite Bar with Margaritas and a Taco Cart.

The food begins at 4 p.m., and the DJ starts spinning at 6 p.m. Reservations are encouraged, but you can also walk in at Felix’s Bar and the Patio space.

Tallula’s Cinco De Mayo Fiesta Pack is available for takeout and includes a 12-piece Taco Bar with all the meats, an 8-Piece Cheese Quesadilla, DIY Nachos “Sencillo”, and Churros. The pack feeds 6 people ($155). Pre-order online through Tallula’s website by May 4th at 8 p.m.

Gracias Madre (West Hollywood)

From there, you can head to Gracias Madre in West Hollywood for a Pop-Up Margarita Garden from 3 to 9 p.m. It will be a night of mariachi performances, raffle prizes, and margarita and mezcal bars – including spirit-free cocktails from CUT ABOVE.  

Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased via Eventbrite. The ticket price includes two drink tickets.

El Carmen (Beverly Grove)

Historic restaurant El Carmen is going to party for 12 hours straight this year! Happy Hour runs from 2 to 7 p.m., and the restaurant will be open until 2 a.m.

Wanna share your Cinco ideas for Cinco de Mayo with others? Repin the image below. It’s always better with amigos.