Philly celebrates Cinco de Mayo without big festival
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Philadelphia is marking Cinco de Mayo with a block party and other events across the city Tuesday.
The big picture: Philly's largest celebration was called off over immigration enforcement concerns.
State of play: El Carnaval de Puebla — South Philly's massive Cinco de Mayo festival — was canceled for a second consecutive year out of fear that the large gathering could become a target for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- The annual event was a big deal: It was Philly's biggest Mexican celebration and would draw roughly 15,000 revelers.
Zoom in: Here's where to celebrate Tuesday.
- Among the biggest events is the annual Cinco de Mayo block party in South Philly.
- South Ninth Street will be shut down between Federal and Christian Streets from 4-9pm for the festivities, a roving mariachi band, restaurant specials and outdoor dining (weather permitting).
Plus: Look for a patio party in East Market on Chestnut Walk from 3-7pm put on by Mi Vida and The Wayward.
- Enjoy food, music, margaritas and a DJ on Ludlow Street between 11th and 12th streets.
What they're saying: Adelita Taqueria owner Andrés Hernández, a co-organizer for the South Philly block party, tells Axios that while concerns around immigration enforcement are top of mind, they're not preventing today's celebrations.
- "In little smaller places we're taking the Carnaval," Olga Renteria, a volunteer with San Mateo Carnavalero and former co-organizer for El Carnaval de Puebla, tells Axios.
- "We are still celebrating. We are still here. We are coming out stronger," she adds.
What's next: It remains uncertain whether Carnaval will return next year, Renteria says.
Go deeper: See more events and specials happening at restaurants Tuesday in the Philly region.