C O O L T U R E
Fiesta
brou ght to y ou by
CINCO de MAYO 200,000 revelers celebrate mexican heritage and california history On May 5, 1862, Mexico beat France at the Battle of Puebla. Thank goodness for that. If it had gone the other way, latenight drive-thrus would serve escargots with cream sauce instead of chips and salsa, and TV commercials would tell us to “Think Outside the Crepe.” What’s the best way to commemorate our neighbor’s victory? By drinking giant margaritas, of course. PacificSD, in conjunction with Plaza Del Pasado, is proud to present the 25th Annual Fiesta
Old Town Cinco de Mayo, May 3 and 4, in historic Old Town. This free, two-day event intends to stir the inner Latin fever in locals and tourists of all ages. With multiple live music and dance stages, the festive weekend will echo with the vibrant sounds of live Latin jazz, high-energy dance, rock ‘n’ roll, hot salsa, flamenco and traditional mariachi. This year, revelers will enjoy food and drink specials at 30 participating restaurants. The biggest bar party typically explodes at Old Town Mexican
Café, but there’s good fun to be had all over the historic neighborhood. Breathe fire in the jalapeño eating contest, ride the antique Wells Fargo Stagecoach and step back in time at the birthplace of California. Brought to you by the Historic Old Town Community Foundation, which supports educational and community driven programs in Old Town. 619.291.4903, fiestaoldtown.com
cinco info Who: 200,000 Fiesta-goers What: 25th Annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo Where: Historic Old Town When: Saturday, May 3 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday, May 4 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EVENTS: Old Town Mercado: San Diego Avenue is transformed into a colorful mercado featuring traditional music, regional cuisine, and cultural and historical exhibits. A major attraction within the mercado is the Corona Stage (off Conde Street and San Diego Avenue), showcasing mariachi, norteño, cumbia, salsa and contemporary and old-school performances. Seeley Stables Arena: The arena is transformed back into an 1862 battlefield, on which actors in full period dress reenact the Battle of Puebla. Dressed in colorful costumes according to Mexican cowboy tradition, a female equestrian team performs in perfect formation. State Park Plaza: The State Park Plaza celebrates the Hispanic culture through traditional entertainment including ballet folklorico and mariachi. Families can stroll and picnic in the park all day. Low-Rider Lane Car Show: 15-20 classic low-rider cars are showcased between Congress Street and San Diego Avenue.
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MAY 2008
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