It’s Cinco De Mayo! We’re excited to share with you an iconic piece of Mexican American Chicanx culture with these cool videos about Low Rider vehicles and tradition!, and of course some history about the holiday and plenty of fun local events to attend right here on Long Island
What is Cinco De Mayo?
Many people presume that Cinco De Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day, but it actually has other origins! Contrary to popular belief, its association with a feast of Mexican and Tex Mex foods is a popularly increasing celebratory trend of recent years.
Cinco de Mayo, is actually the Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, a celebration observed in Mexico and parts of the US. The Mexican Army’s achieved victory over the French Empire on May 5th 1862, thanks to General Ignacio Zaragoza, and overtook the French Forces of Napoleon III. The French later returned with reinforcements, but ultimately were defeated by the Mexican Army who took full control back of the city later in April 1867. The battle remains a significant day in Mexican history, symbolizing Mexico’s determination to take back their home, and their fortitude in the face of foreign occupation and aggressors.
All About Lowrider Car Culture
Chances are you’ve seen a Lowrider car and had some stars in your eyes at these impressive rides! Lowrider cars are traditionally quite colorful custom painted vehicles with white wall tires and wire-spoke rims. They certainly stand out in a crowd and have become an indelible part of Mexican American culture.
For decades the cars were incorrectly associated with nefarious characters in society such as gangsters or drug dealers, but modern day auto enthusiasts and locals truly have come to respect these vehicles as a work of art! m! From self-taught skills in detailing and painting, automotive upholstery,and custom engineered hydraulics, its an inspiring creative feat.
This iconic symbol of Chicanx culture originated in Meximerican Barrios in East Los Angeles during the 1940s. Young men donned some dapper suits and hit the roads in their American Muscle cars which they’d DIY modified to create a whole new vehicle style. They began with the idea of creating a low and slow driving art piece which reflected the history and culture of Mexican heritage, and went against the grain of traditional Anglo-American culture and societal standards.
Learn more:
Donut Media Podcast Presents “How Lowriders Were a Protest Against White Supremacy
Peter Santenello: “Inside Chicano/Chicana Lowrider Culture in LA”
Let’s Celebrate Cinco de Mayo ion Long Island
Americans have adopted Cinco De Mayo as a late spring tradition celebrating Mexican Music, Chicanx culture, and various forms of Mexican fusion food and drink. You can join in the festivities at some of these local events, and feel free to share your own suggested event links in the comments on our social media!
May 5th 2022 events:
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Blacklight Painting for Cinco De Mayo at Painting with a Twist in Selden from 7PM to 9PM
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Cinco De Mayo with DJ Vinny Dice from 7PM to 11PM in Seaford
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Cinco De Mayo Pottery Fiesta from 6:30PM to 8:30PM at Artrageous Studio in Rockville Centre
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The Selena Experience on May 5th and May 6th at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall in Wantagh
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Cinco De Mayo at Coche Comedor in Amagansett from 5PM to 9PM
