Perception vs. Reality. This stark difference of these two terms is at the core of Cinco De Mayo 2024 in Rocky Point Mexico. Perception describes how people interpret information they receive. On the other hand, reality refers to the actual state of something. What you might think about Cinco De Mayo and what is…are about as different as avocados and armadillos. So, you may be surprised to learn Cinco De Mayo 2024 is mostly just another day. in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora.
There are many reasons people will celebrate in Rocky Point Mexico this year. The Mexican people are big on enjoying personal milestones such birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. And because the country is still predominantly Catholic, many people value religious holidays as important days to recognize. Leading the list are Christmas and Semana Santa, the Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday. The Mexican Independence Day on September 16th is another national event to be honored.
What’s missing? You guessed it. And no, this omission was not a mistake.
Cinco De Mayo 2024 – May 5th
Yes, that’s right. Cinco De Mayo 2024 is Sunday, May 5th. It is not a national holiday. Mexican citizens do not have or take off from work for the occasion. They do not enjoy huge family gatherings or other celebrations either. The date recognizes a surprising military victory by the Mexican Army back in 1862. It was the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. Mexico was greatly outnumbered by the French forces but fought a better fight. The victory was deemed much more symbolic than significant in terms of strategy and the war itself.
So, if remembering this is military victory is not a big deal in Mexico, why do Americans recognize it? That’s a good question.
Cinco De Mayo is Marketing Magic
Let us give credit where it is due. Some corporations have benefited greatly by clever marketing campaigns. Credit brands of Mexican beer such as Corona and Dos Equis. Throw some kudos to restaurant chains such as Taco Bell, Qdoba, Chipotle and others. And we cannot forget Tostitos because what is a Mexican fiesta without tortilla chips and salsa?
American consumers fell for the hype. They saw it as an exotic foreign reason for fun. But most have no clue of the story or lack thereof behind the overhyped holiday. And certainly, they probably don’t consider for a moment how they complete ignore American military milestones such as D-Day and Pearl Harbor Day. Many Americans don’t even know the real difference between Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day.
Rocky Point Mexico Becoming Americanized
There is more of a marketing effort for Cinco De Mayo 2024 in Puerto Peñasco. Since the town is driven by tourism, the day is becoming more Americanized. The 4th of July, Labor Day, and Spring Break are much more popular holidays attracting American tourists. However, for CInco De Mayo 2024, the way bigger partying crowds are in the United States. They are not south of the border. I’m seeing it again this year myself at the beautiful Sonoran Sun Resort.
