Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in El Paso is an experience that feels both vibrant and deeply authentic. Although our community at Cantera apartments to rent or lease in El Paso celebrate our rich cultural heritage year-round—on May 5th, the city truly comes alive with music, food, and community spirit.

It is here within a short drive from our apartments to rent or lease in El Paso, Texas, that the  celebration carries a meaningful connection to Mexican history and culture.

The holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla, and in El Paso, that pride is reflected in colorful festivals, traditional performances, and family-friendly gatherings.

One of the best places to start your celebration is downtown, where events often spill into streets and plazas. San Jacinto Plaza becomes a hub of activity, hosting live music, folklórico dancers, and local vendors selling handmade crafts. Nearby, Plaza Theatre may feature special performances or cultural showcases, adding a historic charm to the festivities.

Food is, of course, at the heart of Cinco de Mayo in El Paso. The city is known for its incredible border cuisine, and this is the perfect day to indulge. Restaurants and food trucks serve up everything from street-style tacos and enchiladas to fresh margaritas and aguas frescas. Spots like L&J Cafe and Kiki's Restaurant & Bar are local favorites, offering authentic flavors that have been perfected over generations.

For a more festive atmosphere, many locals head to outdoor celebrations and block parties. Live mariachi bands and regional Norteño music fill the air, while dancers in traditional dress bring energy and color to every corner. Families gather to enjoy the entertainment, and kids can often take part in games, face painting, and cultural activities that make the day inclusive for all ages.

If you’re looking for a slightly more elevated experience, consider celebrating with a scenic backdrop. Venues near Franklin Mountains State Park offer stunning desert views, where you can enjoy a sunset picnic with a festive twist. Watching the sun dip behind the mountains while the city glows below adds a uniquely El Paso touch to the holiday.

Cinco de Mayo in El Paso isn’t just a party—it’s a celebration of identity, heritage, and community. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, savoring authentic cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a day that captures the true spirit of the borderlands.

Main Celebrations & Festive Cinco de Mayo Events in El Paso, Texas

Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl Fiesta
This popular, organized bar crawl event kicking off the Cinco de Mayo celebrations with nightlife, drink specials, and music is more of a party atmosphere than a traditional cultural festival — perfect if you’re looking for a social evening out.  .

 Cinco de Mayo @ the MACC
For all‑day Cinco de Mayo event, head to the  Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC) that is offering cultural programming and performances.

The post Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in El Paso, Texas appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month, we shared creative and educational ways to engage children in the culture, history and contributions of African Americans.
With some more research, we are now offering more fun and creative ways to educate our young people on the importance of Black History Month and all that it stands for.

Cozy Up With Influential Characters
There are so many excellent books that showcase African American characters, you could probably read a book a day.  To get you started, here are some recommendations:
•    My Hair My Crown (0-5 years) Written by Tonya Abari; illustrated by Tabitha Brown
•    What the Road Said (Ages 6 – 10) Written by Cleo Wade; illustrated by Lucie de Moyencourt 
•    African Proverbs for All Ages (Ages 4 – 8) Written by Johnnetta Betsch; illustrated by Nelda LaTeef
•    28 Days: Moments in Black History that Changed the World (ages 6 – 10) Written by Charles R. Smith Jr. Illustrated by Shawn E. Evans 

Attend Virtual Black History Month Events
Throughout America and the World Wide Web there are hundreds of opportunities to find educational shows and workshops tailored for children. One of our recommendations that we found online is through the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  The program is called “NMAAHC Kids Learning Together.”  Click and look for their feature of the week; all of which will be offering stories and activities focusing on Black History Month and African Americans who have had influence in history.

Creative Colors
Here are three recommendations to stir the creative juices and make educational moments come to life as well.
1)    Click into ClassroomDoodles.com and search for your free, downloadable pages that are themed for Black History Month.
2)    Then go to PuzzlesofColor.com, which offers options to buy works designed by African Americans.  Once you have completed the puzzles, they are great for framing or can be used in years to come.
3)    Google BlackWallStreet.com.  This is a really cool board game for kids 8+. It’s all about a business that used to exist in Oklahoma that was referred to as “Black Wall Street.”

Educational Eateries
There are so many opportunities to inspire children to learn and the kitchen is one of our favorite locations.  During this time of the year, and this month in particular, the culture and cuisine of African American dishes come to life.  So, gather the family and get into these recipes this month to celebrate tradition all month long.

28 Soul Food Recipes 
Best Soul Food Recipes
Insanely Good Soul Food Recipes
The Soul Good Pot/Black History Recipe Ideas  
 
 

The post Creative Ways for Kids to Celebrate Black History Month (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.