Cinco de Mayo

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It began about 20 years ago, when Juan Andrade, owner of El Remedio Market, decided to have a small celebration at his market to mark the Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo, the Fifth of May.

"It just grew and grew," he said. "Every year we get a little better."

On Sunday, Andrade's store, restaurant and parking lot were filled over the course of seven hours with thousands of people who came to listen to Mexican music from several area bands, watch folkloric dancers and take part in dancing themselves, socialize, and enjoy Mexican food. The celebration was held a day before the actual holiday, which is today.

"It's just a Mexican holiday -- that's what it means," Garden City resident Veronica Hernandez said. "We just celebrate."

The holiday commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

Gisela Castrellon, who moved to Garden City from Mexico, said Mexican Independence Day, when Mexico became free from Spanish rule on Sept. 16, 1821, actually is a more important day in her native country's history. That day is celebrated in Garden City with the Community Mexican Fiesta, a local tradition since 1926.

However, she said she wanted to participate in Cinco de Mayo festivities with her family, too. She said it also was an opportunity for her to come together with her family and celebrate Mother's Day, which will actually be celebrated in Mexico on Saturday and the United States on Sunday.

Andrade said he thinks it's important for Mexican-Americans to remember the traditions of their home country by celebrating both Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day.

"To me, being from Mexico, this is a way to remember my roots," Andrade said. "This is a very important date over there."

He also said he was encouraged by the large number of children at the celebration, many of whom likely were born in the United States, though their parents or grandparents may have immigrated from Mexico.

He's glad to see the traditions continue even if they are growing up as Americans, he said.

Sunday's celebration included children's games, and others were taking part in dancing and eating sno cones or "elotes" -- corn on the cob covered in mayonnaise, cheese and chili powder.

Castrellon said she brought her children to Cinco de Mayo to help them learn about the traditions and history of their ancestors.

"It's very important for my kids to know their roots," Castrellon said. "That's why I bring them here."

Mexicans also celebrated Cinco de Mayo for another reason, according to 8-year-old Kevin Rodriguez.

"'Cause it's fun," he said. "I like the music. It's loud."