Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner! While many people assume it marks Mexico’s Independence Day, it actually commemorates the country’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Today, the holiday, especially in the United States, looks quite different from its historical origins.
Still, Los Angeles hosts a range of vibrant events that genuinely celebrate Mexican culture and history, and we’ve rounded up some of the best ones below.
Written by Sofia Delpueche and Sarah Nash.
Enjoy the Cinco de Mayo Family Day at Plaza de Cultura y Artes
Celebrate the roots of Cinco de Mayo with The Real Cinco de Mayo: Made in California, a free event honoring the holiday’s origins in California’s Latino communities. Guests will enjoy live performances and hands-on art and garden workshops. Plus, food and drinks will be available for purchase.
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, Smorgasburg LA is throwing a special “Miche de Mayo” takeover at ROW DTLA. And it’s shaping up to be one of the most “sabroso” events of the season. On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the beloved weekly market transforms into a full-on flavor fest celebrating micheladas in all their spicy, tangy glory.
Feel the rush at Lucha VaVoom
Lucha VaVoom de La Liz is back with its biggest event of the year: the legendary Cinco de Mayan show. (But be sure to cheer at their Drinko de Mayo show later on this month too!)
This wild 21+ spectacle blends world-class lucha libre, award-winning burlesque goddesses, contortionists, comedy legends, and mariachi music. Expect lowriders, tamales, tequila, aerial stunts, and non-stop thrills, all packed into one outrageous, over-the-top celebration.
Watch the Venice Cinco de Mayo Parade
Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles, wouldn’t be complete without the Venice Parade returns with their historic event to celebrate Mexican American Heritage. The community can expect powerful performances by Aztec Dancers, Grupo La Rosa Folklorico, Venice High School Band, Santa Monica College Cheerleaders, Classic Cars/Lowriders, and more. There will also be vendors, authentic Mexican food, and live music.
Located in the LBC, the Museum Of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to featuring and highlighting both modern and contemporary Latin American art. While general admission is typically $15, the museum is totally free to the public on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., which makes it ideal to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles.
Crunchy and juicy tacos are perfect for any day and any time. But undoubtedly, there’s no better plan to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Los Angeles than visiting the mythical and legendary Mexican restaurant,El Cholo. This place is one of the city’s finest restaurants, serving delicious meals since 1923.
The oldest house in the entire city is freely accessible every day of the week. But Cinco de Mayo is a more than special occasion to visit, as it’s the ideal time to honor Los Angeles’ roots by celebrating the strong bond with Mexican culture.
