[Brian Jones, Unsplash]

10 Fresh Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo this Year

06:00 April 24, 2026
By: Cassidy Meehan

Cinco de Mayo Celebrations in New Orleans

New Orleans offers various ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo this year, with festivals, DJ sets, and bar crawls.

Whether you are looking for a weekend activity or a celebration the day of the holiday, there is certainly an event available that fits into your schedule.

1. Cinco de Mayo Fest

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[Courtesy of Cinco de Mayo Fest, Instagram]

The 10th annual Cinco de Mayo Festival is coming up on May 5 at 4 p.m. General admission tickets are available for $10, covering event entry, which includes access to live band performance, DJs, a petting zoo, a bull ride, and various vendors. All ages are invited to celebrate Mexican culture with food, music, and great company.

2. Felipe's Cinco de Mayo Celebration

felipestaqueria.com

Felipe's celebrates Cinco de Mayo an annual party that is open to the public. Past celebrations they have hosted on the 5th included a wrestling ring, live musical performances, and additional activities for all to enjoy. An estimated 4,000 hand-squeezed margaritas, 2,000 tacos, and 1,000 Super Burritos compliment the celebration, combining food, signature merchandise, and holiday fun.

3. Zócalo Fest

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[Courtesy of Zócola Nola, Instagram]

Do not miss out on the Cinco de Mayo block party on Metairie Road. This event is known as Zócalo Fest, where Latin music meets Latin cuisine catered by Zócalo, Brasa, Baru, and Basin. Have your choice between margaritas, tequila tasting, and Mexican beers while dancing to live music.

4. Margarita Mayhem

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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo during the 12th annual Margarita Mayhem event. At 3 p.m., head over to Culture Park on Franklin Avenue for margaritas, Latin food, and DJ beats. Tickets can be purchased online for the second tier of general admission at $26. Free RSVPs are sold out at this time.

5. Vibe De Mayo

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[Courtesy of Southport Hall, Website]

Vibe de Mayo will take place on May 2, serving as a weekend Cinco de Mayo celebration. The event is located at Southport Hall, requiring a $20 entry cover. Food will be provided by El Principio Taqueria and DJ sets will be performed by Bad Boy Richie Rich, DJ Randy B, and DJ Mambo.

6. New Orleans Cinco De Mayo Bar Crawl Party

eventbrite.ca

The New Orleans Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl begins the holiday early on May 1. Starting at 8 p.m., hop from bar to bar until 2 a.m., with stops at the New Orleans Drink Lab, Hideout Bar, Razzoo Bar & Patio, and Tipsy Trumpet. Tickets start at $15 for access to the four participating venues, with no cover necessary.

7. Cinco De Mayo Cookie Decorating Class

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[The Station Coffee Shop and Bakery, Website]

The Station Coffee Shop and Bakery is hosting a Cinco de Mayo cookie decorating class. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., enjoy chips and salsa while indulging in the baking design experience. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages, and the bakery will provide light refreshments. RSVP by contacting the establishment at thesationcoffee@gmail.com or by calling (504) 309-4548.

8. Cinco De Mayo Party Ft. The Topcats

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This year marks the third annual Cinco de Mayo party with The Topcats. On May 2 at 6 p.m., stop by The Barn at Ground Pat'i in Kenner for burgers, margarita specials, and live music. The Topcats will perform from 6:30 to 9 p.m., and the outdoor event is open to the public.

9. Cinco De Mayo Celebration at El Paso

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[Courtesy of El Paso Mexican Grill, Website]

El Paso Mexican Grill's Magazine Street location will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with free margaritas. Stop by on May 5 for a margarita on the house from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. While you are there, try items from their extensive menu, with various options of burritos, tacos, and nachos.

10. Visit El Gato Negro

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El Gato Negro is another restaurant perfect for a meal on Cinco de Mayo. The establishment prides itself on its authenticity and hospitality, with signature drinks and cuisines to be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere. Stop by their Lakeview, French Market, or Gretna locations to enjoy a fresh margarita for a true New Orleans Cinco de Mayo celebration.

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