…so you can see why "Cinco de Mayo" is a catchier cognomen.

Anyhoo, I do like Cinco de Mayo, and it's primarily because it's kind of a Western holiday, as funny as that sounds. Mexico itself doesn't celebrate the Battle of Puebla as heartily and happily as it celebrates its own independence; however, the western part of the United States –united also in the love of Mexican food– seems to really take to the holiday.

Because, let us face it: there is nothing quite like a good Mexican feast and several good Mexican beers as an excuse to celebrate and perhaps break up the monotony of everyday with vibrant red, white and green. Much like St. Patrick's day gives everyone license to be Irish for a day, so it seems that Cinco de Mayo gives everyone a little Mexicanness– or at least helps them drink and eat that way.

How can you not like holidays where there is no obligation other than eating and drinking, anyway?

As for me, nothing says "fiesta' quite like guacamole.

How did you (or didn't you) celebrate May fifth?