May 1, 2025 - Things to Do

Cinco de Mayo Festival takes over Civic Center Park

Esteban L. Hernandez

Traditional Mexican dancers during a performance in a sunny, outdoor arena. — Ballet Folklorico Baile Caliente dancers perform at the 2022 Cinco De Mayo Festival at Civic Center Park in Denver. Photo: Helen H. Richardson/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The annual Cinco de Mayo Festival returns this weekend, bringing a taste of Mexican culture to Denver's Civic Center Park.

What to expect: The family-friendly festival kicks off Saturday, with more than 350,000 visitors anticipated during a two-day celebration that will include food, art and contests downtown.

By the numbers: The event will boast three stages abuzz with cultural showcases, like music and dance.

Local vendors will sell handcrafted goods and merch, plus food favorites like tacos and tamales.

State of play: Can't-miss events include a Chihuahua race taking place at noon on Saturday, a taco eating contest also on Saturday, and a lowrider car exhibit on Sunday showcasing customized cars, trucks and bicycles.

Zoom in: The event will have a family fun zone for kids with educational programming.

Context: Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army's defeat of the French in the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War in 1862, and it's often marked in the United States by celebrating Mexican culture.

Stop by: Denver's 36th annual Cinco de Mayo Festival takes place from 10am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday at Civic Center Park (101 W. 14th Ave.).

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Cinco de Mayo Festival takes over Civic Center Park

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