May 5th is the anniversary of the Mexican victory over 6,000 French troops at the battle of Puebla in south central Mexico, in 1862.

France’s Emperor Napoleon was looking to expand the French empire and establish a French output to among other things, support the Confederate South during the U.S. Civil War, so he sent troops to Mexico in 1861.  After numerous French victories, the French were defeated attempting to conquer the city of Puebla. Upon hearing the news of the defeat, Napoleon sent 29,000 troops the following year. They quickly captured the capital, Mexico City, and a new pro-French Emperor (Maximilian) and puppet regime was installed.

The 15th annual National Cinco de Mayo Festival in DC features live music and dance featuring the Maru Montero Dance Company, GRUFOLPAWA (Grupo Folklorico de Panama), kid’s and crafts workshops, ethnic foods, Latino culture and family activities.

Activities include a special horse troupe performance, a fashion show, piñata games, Latino arts and crafts activities, a kid’s soccer clinic, and guest appearances by PBS kid’s television cartoon characters Maya and Miguel.

National Cinco de Mayo Festival
National Sylvan Stage on the National Mall
15th St. and Independence Ave.
Washington DC

Date and Time – Saturday, May 5th, Noon to 6:00 p.m. The Kid’s Pavilion will be open from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Nearest Metro subway station – Smithsonian, Blue and Orange lines

Parking – Parking on the Mall will be limited.

Photos: 1 & 2 Flickr, 3 GRUFOLPAWA

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Post from: The DC Traveler