Even though summer still feels like a far away idea, it seems to come a little early in the Hudson Valley every May 5. The yearly holiday of Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 that is honored as much by Mexican Americans as it is by other U.S. citizens. The Hudson Valley region is no exception, as the holiday brings with it many parties and events that serve to remember the fifth of May with Mexican-influenced dinners, drinks, and culture.
Puebla: The Story of Cinco de Mayo
New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle
April 30, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
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The Calpulli Mexican Dance Company presents this performance that features songs, dances, and stories centered around the origins and history of the May holiday. Along the way, the dancers will explain the imagery, culture, and rhythms throughout the program as they all relate to the day of Mexican liberation.
Cinco de Mayo Dance Party
Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Wappingers Falls
May 3, 7:45 p.m.
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Throw on your dancing shoes for this event at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Dutchess County. The studio will host a special complimentary group class for beginner dancers at 7:45 p.m., with a party to follow immediately afterward. All are welcome to come get their blood pumping and enjoy refreshments in a fifth of May-inspired ambiance. Admission to the event is $20.
Cinco de Mayo Weekend
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, Gardiner
May 3–5
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This full weekend of May 5 activities is especially fun for the kids, with tons of fiestas and challenges like a hot pepper eating contest or dance lessons. Book a cabin or bring your own tent to stay the whole weekend at the campsite while the kids have fun with crafts, beach volleyball, sand art, and more themed fun.
Cinco de Mayo Party
June Farms, West Sand Lake
May 4, 6–10 p.m.
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Every year, June Farms puts on a spectacular party to commemorate the fifth of May. Back again for 2024, the event will feature music from Alex Torres and his Latin orchestra inside the heated Pony Barn. Enjoy Mexican-inspired food and a full bar for cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, beer, and wine at this 21-plus event. Admission is $25.
Cinco de Mayo Electro Brunch
The Academy, Poughkeepsie
May 5, 12 p.m.
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Popular in New York City thanks to its host Tina Burner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Electro Brunch truly is an electric event. This special Hudson Valley rendition is sure to be a wild brunch with Tina and her DJ sidekick, Jimmy Prada. Admission includes unlimited drinks, and The Academy’s famous margaritas are a can’t-miss cocktail to sip while celebrating the fifth of May.
Cinco de Mayo at Sky View
Sky View Mexican Restaurant, Kingston
May 5, 12 p.m.
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Hang out on the expansive deck at Kingston’s Sky View Mexican Restaurant while you bask in the early May weather on the fifth. While you’re there, chow down on delicious authentic Mexican food like tacos al pastor, fajitas, enchiladas, mole chicken, and more. Pair any dish with a refreshing cocktail, from the homemade sangria to margaritas in any flavor you could imagine.
Sip Into Cinco de Mayo
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
May 5, 2 p.m.
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Try your hand at bartending this fifth of May at City Winery Hudson Valley’s cocktail creation class. Spend the afternoon crafting three cocktails with tequila, mezcal, wine, or non-alcoholic mixes if that’s your preference. The hands-on experience is all about learning how to mix up Mexican-inspired cocktails that pack a punch. At the end of the day, all who attend will go home with a complimentary growler containing their boozy creations.
