Once celebrated as the ‘beginning of the end’, Cinco de Mayo marked a huge victory against the French army. The smaller and less-equipped Mexican army took down the larger and more advanced French army. This boosted morale and ultimately led to the French being ousted from Mexico. Today, Cinco de Mayo (the 5th of May) is portrayed with re-enactments, festivals, and colorful parades.

If you are visiting Florida, Epcot is the place to be on Cinco de Mayo. Immerse yourself in the whole cultural experience of this remembrance day by visiting the Mexican Pavilion inside the World Showcase at Epcot.

Arrive at the massive Mayan pyramid to start your journey into the world of all things Mexican.

Bold colors and patterns of Mayan and Aztec art adorn the walls and are displayed in artifacts of all sizes and shapes. No visit to Mexican culture would be complete without a nod to the Day of the Dead. Enter the chamber of Eternal Evening. Here at Epcot you will see vividly painted skulls, an easily recognizable part of the heritage that honors family that have gone to their eternal resting place. Take a boat ride over The River of Time. You can see a Mayan pyramid in the distance, with a ready-to-erupt volcano. The symbolism is evident in all of the artwork and displays.

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Visiting Mexico isn’t authentic without strolling through a marketplace, haggling with vendors over prices. Trinkets, sombreros, and jewelry fill the stalls of the marketplace located within the Mexican Pavilion. Giving the feeling of a true open-air market, you are free to choose from delicate blown glass, piñatas, and colorful clothing.

Most people celebrating Cinco de Mayo in America think of food and drinks. Epcot serves up tasty true Mexican fare at the San Angel Inn Restorante, which was designed to look like a hacienda near Mayan ruins. When you think of Mexican drinks, nothing is more authentic than Tequila. Enjoy top shelf Tequila and Mexican beer along with chips and guacamole at La Cava Tequila.

Dancing to the music that is lively, smelling the spicy heat of tacos, and being surrounded by colorful costumes and parades – this is truly the festival you were looking for in your Cinco de Mayo celebration.