Get ready for Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Scenic City.
The holiday honors Mexico’s victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The Second Franco-Mexican War didn’t end that day, but the battle became a symbol of resistance against foreign powers.
If you’re looking to observe the holiday, we’ve rounded up some great local celebrations with plenty to eat, drink, and do in Chattanooga.
Food Truck Fridays: Cinco de Mayo | Friday, May 5 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Kitchen Incubator of Chattanooga, 5704 Marlin Rd. | Price of purchase | Grab lunch from one of the many food truck vendors and see who will win the taco competition.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration | Friday, May 5 | 11 a.m.-11 p.m. | Taco Mamacita, 109 N. Market St. | Price of purchase | Enjoy all-day specials on some of the spot’s signature drinks.
Cinco de Mayan | Friday, May 5-Saturday, May 6 | 4 p.m.-11 p.m. + 11 p.m-3 a.m. | Mayan Kitchen, 507 Broad St. | Free+ | Enjoy an outdoor party with drink specials and tasty eats until 11 p.m., then stay for an indoor late night party with music and dancing.
Cinco de Mayo: Chattanooga Red Wolves vs. South Georgia Tormenta | Friday, May 5 | 7:30 p.m. | CHI Memorial Stadium, 1 Stadium Way | $12-$84 | Come out for a pre-match DJ, margarita specials, and Cinco de Mayo food takeovers in the concessions as you cheer on the Red Wolves — plus, stay for a post-match concert.
Cinco Margarita Crawl on Station Street | Friday, May 5 | 7 p.m.-late | Free+ | Listen to a Mariachi Band from 7-9 p.m. + music from DJ from 9-11 p.m. — folks 21+ can also enjoy margarita and tequila specials at participating bars.
Latin Night: Cinco de Mayo Edition | Friday, May 5-Saturday, May 6 | 10 p.m.-2 a.m. | G2G-Salsa, 2255 Center St. | $10-$80 | Enjoy a late night of Bachata, Merengue, Salsa, Cumbia, and Reggaeton dancing — plus food + drink deals. Note: this event is 21+.
Running of the Chihuahuas | Saturday, May 6 | 12 p.m. | First Horizon Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. | Free+ | Come out for the 14th annual ROTC race, participate in a best-dressed contest, enjoy live music by Olivia Lunny, and more.
Bonus: Want a treat this Friday? Bleu Fox Cheese Shop will offer its Cheesey Nachos on Friday, May 5 for the holiday.