Cinco de Mayo (Spanish: Fifth of May) is an annual celebration held on May 5. It commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The city of Puebla, Mexico marks the event with parades, arts and food festivals, and re-enactments of the battle.
In the United States, the day is associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture and heritage. These celebrations began in California, where they have been observed annually since 1863. Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in San José and the rest of the Bay Area with parades, fairs and festivals.