How to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Respectfully

We talked to chef Claudia Sandoval, the winner of MasterChef U.S. season six, a judge on MasterChef Latino, and best-selling author of the cookbook Claudia’s Cocina: A Taste of Mexico, about how to celebrate Cinco de Mayo without appropriating the holiday.

Claudia Sandoval is a winner and judge of MasterChef, host of the show Taste of the Border, and a best-selling cookbook author. Her family is from Mexico, and she grew up learning how to cook traditional Mexican dishes.

Sandoval’s family originates from Mexico, so she grew up learning to cook traditional Mexican dishes. She told us that while it is important to be culturally conscious, it’s possible to celebrate Cinco de Mayo traditions without appropriating the Mexican culture.

“One of the wonderful things about Mexican culture is that we love to share our holidays and customs with other people,” she says. “We are the type of culture that welcomes you into our home, and however humble our plates or offerings, you will always feel welcome to partake in familial and cultural activities.”

However, it’s still important to make sure you’re participating respectfully. “As you choose to celebrate and partake in cultural holidays, we recommend doing your research and understanding the meaning behind those customs and reasons for celebration,” Sandoval says. “Cinco de Mayo isn’t about celebrating independence. It is about celebrating the ability to stand up to forces beyond measure.”

“Cinco de Mayo isn’t about celebrating independence. It is about celebrating the ability to stand up to forces beyond measure.”

— CLAUDIA SANDOVAL, MASTERCHEF WINNER

So how do you know whether you’re celebrating or appropriating the culture? Sandoval says it all comes down to educating yourself. “You may be culturally appropriating if you are celebrating inaccurately by not doing your homework,” she says. “Mexican culture is about so much more than tacos and tequila. We encourage you to learn about our customs, traditions, and history. A little research goes a long way when you are trying to partake in festivities that belong to another culture and that don’t continue to reinforce inaccurate stereotypes.”

Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Traditions

Cinco de Mayo is May 5. Here are Sandoval’s best suggestions for how to celebrate the holiday.

1. Share the Real Story

Many Americans are quick to celebrate with tacos and margaritas without understanding the cultural significance of the holiday. Before partaking in any celebrations, take a few minutes to learn about the holiday and educate others you’re celebrating with. “Changing stereotypes is something that we need help with, and if you do your part, we can share how awesome the truth behind Cinco de Mayo is,” Sandoval says. Read up on the Mexican army's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where the holiday originates.

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Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

2. Support Mexican Businesses

While there are plenty of chain restaurants that offer Cinco de Mayo deals, Sandoval suggests supporting local instead: Skip the Taco Bell drive-thru and order carry-out from a local Mexican-owned business in your area. “Whether it’s your local Mexican Restaurant or grocery, or a local Mexican pottery store, supporting small business owners helps not just your local economy but it helps to support the Mexicans whose culture you enjoy celebrating,” she says.

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3. Support Mexican Arts and Museums

This holiday isn’t just about the food! “So often we dismiss the value of true Mexican artesanías,” Sandoval says. “If you have a local art gallery, museum, or artist, show up and support those artists and museums that are honoring Mexican history and culture.” If you’re not familiar with any in your area, a quick internet search can help you find local venues.

Andy Lyons

4. Eat the Food!

It’s important to make sure you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo traditions and not just going out for your favorite Mexican dishes. However, food is such a large part of the Mexican culture that it can be one of the best (and tastiest!) ways to celebrate. Whether you're ordering from a local restaurant or cooking at home, Sandoval recommends Mole Poblano, a spicy and delicious traditional meal from Puebla, or Enchiladas Poblanas made with poblano chiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the colors associated with Cinco de Mayo?
• Many celebrations feature red, white, and green. The Mexican flag is striped with these colors with the Mexican coat of arms as the central emblem.
• What else should you avoid doing on Cinco de Mayo?
• Do not wear a costume that enforces stereotypes on this day or any other day. Make sure you educate yourself to learn why they are problematic. In fact, this is a great day to donate to organizations that support Hispanic and Latin American communities.