Cinco de Mayo commemorates the victory of the outnumbered Mexican army over French forces, providing the momentum and national confidence for the Mexican people to drive the foreign power from their country. Today, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the tradition of freedom and acknowledges the beauty of Latino culture.
Denver's Cinco de Mayo "Celebrate Culture" Festival has been a Mile High tradition for more than three decades! Three stages will provide live entertainment from morning until evening, featuring mariachi, salsa, norteño and many other genres of Latino music and dance.
Other events during the festival include the annual Cinco de Mayo Community Parade on Saturday, May 2, from 11 a.m. to noon, a taco-eating contest (Sunday, May 3), lowrider car shows (Saturday and Sunday) and the famous Chihuahua race (Saturday, May 2)!
As you stroll through Civic Center Park, check out vendors displaying Mexican folk art and handcrafted goods.
Food is a big part of Cinco de Mayo, and there will be plenty of it at the festival. Hundreds of vendors will be serving up tacos, enchiladas, burritos and more of the best Colorado Mexican cuisine. Green chile is a Denver culinary staple, so expect these offerings to be the best of the best.
For more information, see the event's website.
Other Events
WHEN: May 1, 2026
WHERE: Museo de las Americas
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Museo de las Americas from 5–9 p.m.! Enjoy an exciting evening filled with culture, dance and delicious food, including free admission to the museum's current exhibition, Nuestras Historias | Our Stories.
WHEN: May 1–10, 2026
WHERE: Harry's at The Magnolia Hotel
Stretch out the fiesta a little longer with Harry's food and drink specials! On Tuesday, May 5, the party hits its peak with a live DJ spinning from 5 to 8 p.m. Come early, stay for the music and let the good vibes carry you through the evening. Can't pick just one margarita? Order the Margarita Flight for 6-ounce pours of three delicious flavors: traditional, strawberry basil and spicy mango. And what Cinco de Mayo celebration would be complete without tacos to pair with your margaritas? Harry's has you covered there, too!
WHEN: May 2, 2026
WHERE: Piney Creek Hollow Park, Centennial
This Cinco de Mayo, challenge yourself and celebrate resilience, community and culture at the Cinco de Mayo Run Against All Odds race! Whether you’re running for fun or for fitness, this event is all about pushing limits and embracing the spirit of overcoming obstacles—just like the holiday itself! Sign up for the 5K, 10K, half-marathon or 1-mile family fun run. All registrants will receive a T-shirt, and finishers will receive a towel and medal!
WHEN: May 2 & 3, 2026
WHERE: 3929 Morrison Rd.
The sixth annual Cinco de Mayo en Westwood celebration honors the historical significance of the Batalla de Puebla and supports the cultural preservation of the Westwood community. All are welcome to come and enjoy two days of live music, cultural dance performances, lucha libre, local vendors, youth activities, art installations and delicious Mexican food!
WHEN: May 2–5, 2026
WHERE: Ajax Downtown
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo all weekend long with specialty-crafted cocktails, festive drinks and bold flavors that highlight the spirit of the season. Enjoy handcrafted Mezcal creations, share bites with friends and soak in the lively, celebratory atmosphere of downtown Denver.
WHEN: May 23, 2026
WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver
Head to Levitt Pavilion for a night of free music for Rock de Mayo, featuring iZCALLi, Los Mocochetes, El Cro, Fruta Brutal, Monica the Great and El Jaguar de La Muerte! RSVP for general admission or upgrade at LevittDenver.org.
