54. The Cinco de Mayo Celebration

The Cinco de Mayo, or Fifth of May, a holiday celebrating Mexican Independence day in the States. Before 1776, much of the southern and states, such as Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, , and California were part of Mexico. Following the between the U.S. and Mexico in the 1800s, states became part of the United States, but still remained a very large Mexican population.

The population is the largest, single ethnic group in country. It accounts for 17 percent of the 's population, and 63 percent of those Latinos are Mexican origins. The Cinco de Mayo is a celebration in the country's southwest region. It celebrates Mexican victory in the Battle of Puebla, against on May 5, 1862. Curiously, the day is more in the United States than it is Mexico itself.

In Los Angeles, the city celebrates event with the Fiesta Broadway, which is the Cinco de Mayo celebration in the world. More half a million people come to downtown L.A. participate in the street fair that covers 24 blocks. The celebration takes place on the last of April. There are rides, games, and especially at this celebration and it is growing every . Los Angeles is not the only Southland city host Cinco de Mayo celebrations. The cities of , West Los Angeles, and Commerce also have events, the famous Olvera Street celebration in downtown L.A. also very popular.

One of the most unique de Mayo events takes place in the Hancock district of Los Angeles. It is called the de Mayo. This celebration is an annual charity that began in 1999. It is a private that benefits the homeless by providing shelter and . Cinco de Mayo is a truly American celebration.