Idaho Falls celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Although Cinco de Mayo isn’t until Sunday, the Idaho Falls community decided to celebrate a little early this year.

Hundreds gathered at Tautphaus Park Saturday to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with music, food, drinks and live performances.

While it’s considered a minor holiday in Mexico, in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.

Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day, which is on September 16, rather it marks Mexico’s defeat over France in the Battle of Puebla.

“Independence for Mexico is in September, independence from Spain,” said Sergio Romero, Cinco de Mayo committee chairman. “Cinco de Mayo is important for us as a cultural day and working together in the community.”

The celebration continues Sunday at Tautphaus Park at 11 a.m. with Mariachis.