Cinco de Mayo Columbia

Cinco de Mayo in Columbia, California - It's Where the Party Started!

May 3rd, 11 AM-9 PM

May 4th, 11 AM-5 PM

Columbia State Historic Park

1259 Jackson St, Columbia, CA 95310

It turns out Cinco de Mayo might be more American than you think-and it all started right here in Columbia, California.

Back in 1862, when news reached the large Latino population in this old Gold Rush town that Mexican forces had defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla, something special happened. People filled the streets in a spontaneous celebration-singing, dancing, and waving flags in a show of pride, unity, and patriotism. That moment, documented by historians including scholars from UCLA, marks Columbia as the first place in the United States to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Fast forward to 2025, and Columbia is still doing what it does best: gathering people together for a celebration full of heart, history, and good times.

What's Happening This Year

Now in its fourth year, Cinco de Mayo: An American Tradition is a weekend-long festival that brings the spirit of that original celebration back to life. You'll find:

• A colorful, hands-on Children's Art Corridor

• Traditional Mariachi performances and a full schedule of live music

• Cultural performances that entertain and educate

• A lively marketplace of local vendors, artists, and food booths

• And a compelling museum exhibit sharing the real story of Cinco de Mayo in Columbia.

Event Schedule:

11:00 AM — Welcoming Music

11:15 AM — Opening Ceremony

11:30 AM — Columbia College Dance Club & Lucky CuZn Brass Band

1:00 PM — Folkloric Ballet

3:00 PM — Mariachis

5:00 PM — Closing remarks

+ on MAY 3 ONLY — Baile en la Calle

& 7:00 PM — MotherLode Latin Ensemble

https://www.facebook.com/Cincodemayocolumbiacalifornia