See related 2024 article: No dancing in the streets on Cinco de Mayo this year
North Division Street will be dressed in green, white, and red this Saturday, May 3, as Peekskill prepares to celebrate the richness of Mexican culture ahead of the traditional Cinco de Mayo. The street will be closed to vehicle traffic early in the morning to make way for a vibrant festival that will bring together the Mexican community from Peekskill and surrounding areas. The event will begin at 11 am and include activities for all ages and interests.
Local restaurants are leading the organization of this event, which brings together the best of Mexican cuisine, music, and traditions. For at least 12 hours, the space will be transformed into a full celebration, where attendees can enjoy traditional dishes such as tacos al pastor, tamales, shrimp ceviche, nachos with guacamole, and typical soft drinks, all within a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
This year’s lineup features a wide array of musical acts. According to the flyer shared by the iconic Ruben’s Mexican Café, performers include Banda Ruidosa, Estrella Sureña, Grupo Costa Mix, David y sus Mariachis, DJ Esco, DJ Benny, the dance group Las Gitanas, and more artists who will bring energy and joy to the stage.
In addition to live music, there will be folk and Aztec dance performances to showcase the richness of Mexican identity. One of the most anticipated moments of the day, especially for children, will be the piñata activity. These are colorful cardboard figures covered in tissue paper and filled with candy, fruit, and small toys. Children take turns hitting them with a stick until the contents burst out.
It’s worth noting that Cinco de Mayo is not a national holiday in Mexico, nor does it commemorate the country’s independence. The date marks the Battle of Puebla, which took place in 1862, when the Mexican army, under General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the French forces, considered at the time one of the most powerful in the world. The celebration later gained popularity among Mexican immigrants in the United States as a symbol of cultural pride and resilience.
The weather forecast for the day of the festival calls for partly cloudy skies with a chance of rain in the afternoon. Attendees are advised to arrive early to secure parking and follow all safety guidelines for large gatherings. For more information, you can call (914) 739-4330 or (914) 943-7437.
