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Detroit Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

DETROIT (WWJ) - As Cinco de Mayo celebrations took place across the globe, the party was a festive one in Southwest Detroit.

A parade was held on Vernor Sunday afternoon with live music, horses and marchers in traditional costume. Many who lined the streets held Mexican flags.

Inez Chavez of Detroit said she's been celebrating Cinco de Mayo all her life. "My mom, she came from Mexico and they used to celebrate over there. The same thing -- like, a parade, food, party," said Chavez.  "You know, it's something I'll always remember and celebrate."

Cinco de Mayo 2
(credit: Beth Fisher/WWJ)

Jenn Rock of Detroit said this was her first time celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Mexicantown. "I've never been down here before, so, I thought this would be a good experience," she said.

Another first time celebrator was Chelsie Fuller, who was looking forward to some authentic food. "Some chimichangas and margaritas ... I was thinking about going to Xochimilco," Fuller said.

All of Southwest Detroit's popular Mexican restaurants were packed.

Maria Torres told WWJ Newsradio 950's Beth Fisher what brought her out on Sunday.

"Because we can celebrate Mexican liberty," Torres said, "It's fun because we eat a lot of Mexican food like tacos, tostadas, tamales ... it's fun!"

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, when a Mexican force battled and defeated a larger group of French soldiers.

Best Tacos In Detroit

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