City Cast Austin logo

The Best Cinco de Mayo 2026 Events in Austin

Posted on May 1
Elissa Castles

Elissa Castles

Colorful paper flowers on strings against a blue sky.

It's time to celebrate! (Tony Anderson/Getty Images)

Looking for places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? We've got the guide for you.

What Is Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo is not to be mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, but rather a day celebrating Mexico's unlikely defeat of the French in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. The holiday gained broader popularity in the U.S. during the Chicano Movement of the 1960s, when it was embraced as a way to celebrate Mexican-American identity and culture.

Celebrate at the Cinco de Mayo Festival

Mexic-Arte Museum is hosting a not-to-miss celebration that is free and family friendly. Head over to Republic Square on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy a variety of food vendors, an artisan market, interactive booths, and so much more.

Listen to a Live Mariachi Band

Mariachi Classico brings traditional mariachi music to this Cinco de Mayo event in Southpark Meadows on Saturday. The event runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and also features a set from DJ Kenny Duet, face painting, a complimentary photo booth, drinks, and more.

Get a Free Taco

Hotel Vegas is giving away free tacos with a featured drink purchase on May 5 for their Cinco de Mayo Extravaganza. The party starts at 3 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. with performances by The Latin Dukes, El Tule, and tons of DJs.

Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Güero's Taco Bar

What better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than with this beloved Tex-Mex spot that's been serving Austin for 40 years?! Güero's Taco Bar is throwing a birthday bash on May 5 with proceeds benefiting the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians. Enjoy music, tacos, and margaritas from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

See a Ballet Folklórico Performance

Roy Lozano's Ballet Folklórico de Texas is performing at Center Stage at Eastvillage on May 5 to present Mexican heritage through rhythm, colorful costumes, and dynamic movements. The free event runs 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature mariachi music, tequila tastings, and bites from EastVillage Market.

Share article

Hey Austin

Stay connected to City Cast Austin and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.