Spring has officially sprung at Millcreek Common, where residents gathered to celebrate Cinco de Mayo festivities during the first week of May. Attendees treated themselves to traditional Mexican food, in addition to a variety of activities and performances. 

Highlights included food from various local restaurants, singing and dancing performances, and traditional Lucha Libre wrestling. This year, those behind the festivities wanted to showcase and celebrate unique aspects of Mexican culture. 

Despite Cinco de Mayo’s Mexican roots, the holiday has a long and interesting history in the United States, with early celebrations dating back to the 1860s. Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862. Almost a century later the holiday gained traction amongst Southern California Chicanos in the 1950s and 1960s.  

Today, cities across the United States host celebrations, which often include traditional Mexican foods and activities. This year, Millcreek Common was among them, partnering with prominent companies in the community like Telemundo Utah and Maria’s Mexican Grill. 

This year, attendees were treated to a performance by Oaxaca en Utah, a local organization whose dancers and entertainers perform across the state. Their goal is to preserve Oaxacan culture and showcase its distinct flavor and flair. 

Per their social media: “Our mission [is to] celebrate, share, and perpetuate the vibrant culture heritage of Oaxaca by delivering diverse events and programs that ensure its traditions flourish and are embraced by future generations.”

Dancers took to The Common in traditional Oaxacan costume, with vibrant skirts and intricate headpieces. Also present were musicians from Academia Mis Raices, a Utah music academy that focuses on connecting individuals with Mexican heritage through music. 

Performers from Lucha Libre Utah also excited the crowd with their traditional, upbeat wrestling style. Lucha Libre originated in Mexico, at first, gaining regional traction, before exploding into a nationwide phenomenon. Lucha Libre, which translates to “free fight” in English, is known for its fluid and theatrical movements.

Much like the holiday of Cinco de Mayo itself, Lucha Libre also has a fascinating history, dating back to the early 20th century. Preceded by the French Intervention in Mexico, Lucha Libre has roots in Greco-Roman wrestling style. However, arguably its most identifiable feature is the wearing of masks. Lucha Libre wrestlers, or luchadores, often don colorful masks, popularized by El Santo (The Saint), a beloved Lucha Libre wrestler who was known for his silver mask. Onlookers watched as Lucha Libre Utah luchadores took to the ring, showcasing their athleticism with high flying moves and maneuvers. 

Also present were the Millcreek Skate Loop Legends, a piñata for children, traditional Aztec and Oaxaca ceremonies, lowrider cars, a Mariachi band, face painting, and a DJ led dance party. All in all, the celebration had something for everyone, while showcasing Mexican culture and the distinct fusion of Mexican American culture. 

Naturally, no Mexican celebration is complete without copious amounts of food. Restaurants like Maria’s Mexican Grill, kept visitors happy and full, serving up traditional favorites like tacos, carne and tortillas made from scratch.

In their welcoming remarks Telemundo Utah stressed the importance of such events and their impact on the community, thanking the city of Millcreek for allowing them to participate in the celebration. λ