There’s often a misconception that Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexico’s independence from Spain, though Mexican Independence Day is actually on September 16th. Cinco de Mayo instead honors Mexico’s surprising victory over France in the historic 1862 Battle of Puebla. The Hispanic forces were largely outnumbered and while many lives were lost, the battle ultimately became a symbol of Mexican resistance.
The Cinco de Mayo holiday is observed in the United States to celebrate culture, heritage, and centuries of tradition. The city of Omaha is home to an array of festivities, including the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival. Check out these holiday events and kick off a weekend of fun at Plaza de la Raza this May.
Cinco de Mayo Festival
2314 M Street
Omaha has been proud to host Mexican festivals for decades, some dating back to the 1920s! Celebrate at the 2024 Cinco de Mayo Festival, where attendees can expect an array of local Latino food vendors, live entertainment, free concerts, carnival rides, a health fair, and all types of vendors, both local and out of state. On April 1st, head over to any Supermercado Nuestra Familia grocery store and grab a $5 off voucher for a carnival ride day pass. Festivities kick off on May 10th and carry on through May 12th in the historic South Omaha. There will be shuttles available and general admission costs $5 per person per day or $10 for a weekend pass. Kids 12 and under get in free!
Cinco de Mayo Parade
South 24th Street
Omaha’s largest and most diverse parade is returning this May. On May 11th, the parade will kick off along the historic South 24th Street and is expected to attract over 25,000 spectators! Arrive early to snag a good spot and set up a lawn chair. The route begins on D Street and ends on L Street. Registration is open if you’re interested in joining the parade. Prizes are awarded for best float, performing artist, and more! Sponsors can purchase a banner along the one-mile route and entries include one vehicle in addition to parade walkers. Make sure to keep an eye out for NP Dodge in this year’s parade!
Mariachi Mass
South 24th Street & North Street
The annual Mariachi Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on May 12th in Omaha’s Plaza de la Raza. The Alexis y Sus Caballeros mariachi group will be joining the Asunción-Guadalupe Catholic Church for Sunday mass on the main stage. The unique outdoor celebration will feature liturgical music led by the traditional mariachi band and everyone is welcome to attend.
Zumbamania
South 24th Street
If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toe into the world of Zumba, this is the time to do it! Zumbamania is a free outdoor Zumba fitness class being held on May 12th from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Omaha’s Cinco de Mayo celebration on the Plaza Main Stage. Attendees will dance and get their heart rate up with exciting beats and moves led by certified instructors. All skill levels are welcome. Find your Latin groove and enjoy genres ranging from salsa, reggaeton, and merengue.
Pablo Montero Concert
South 24th Street & North Street
On May 12th, Telemundo Nebraska and Radio Lobo are excited to present Pablo Montero in concert with special guests Yahri and Nostalic. The event will kick off at 4:00 PM and wrap up around 9:30 PM at the Veridian Credit Union Stage in Plaza de la Raza. Admission to the concert is free, thanks to presenting sponsors Alvarez Insurance Agency, Mundo Latino, and more.
SOCCC Health Fair
South 24th Street
The SOCCC Health Fair is presented by CHI Health. During the annual Cinco de Mayo Festival in Omaha, attendees are encouraged to participate in complimentary screenings conducted by local healthcare professionals. Informative sessions are geared towards education on a range of health-related topics and local health institutions will be available to answer questions. This is a great opportunity to prioritize your health this Cinco de Mayo, as well as learn about health insurance options and prevention resources.
The STEM Hub
2402 North Street
Cinco de Mayo Omaha is partnering with other local organizations to bring an interactive and inclusive STEM festival to town. The STEM Hub 2024 will be held on Saturday, May 11th at Plaza de la Raza. The goal of the event will be to provide accessibility for all those wanting to learn about STEM. Kids can participate in a range of activities for a variety of age groups, including kindergarteners to high schoolers.
El Museo Latino Lunch
4701 South 25 Street
El Museo Latino is celebrating Cinco de Mayo early, in congruence with the 31st anniversary of the museum. On April 4th, 2024, the museum will host almuerzo (lunch) at 11:30 AM. Reservations should be submitted by April 1st and the registration form can be downloaded on the El Museo Latino website.
2024 Adelante Gala
3327 L Street
To kick off Omaha’s annual Cinco de Mayo festivities, the Latino Economic Development Council is excited to host the 2024 Adelante Gala on April 25th. This gathering of Latino professionals is expected to be attended by over 400 guests, including community leaders, business owners, and entrepreneurs from an array of industries. This is an opportunity to celebrate achievements and help to continue growing the Latino business community in Omaha and Nebraska. The gala kicks off at 5:30 PM and single tickets begin at $125. The keynote speaker for this event is Rafael Magaña, who is an entrepreneur, author, and leader dedicated to the advancement of Hispanic professionals.
Where to Find Omaha’s Best Margaritas
Nothing hits the spot on a hot day quite like an ice-cold margarita. This traditional Mexican tequila-based cocktail is popular for a reason. This Cinco de Mayo, sample one of Omaha’s best-mixed drinks at these local establishments.
Maria’s
7630 Burlington Street
Located in nearby Ralston, Maria’s is known for their award-winning margs and authentic Mexican dishes. The $8 house margarita is hard to beat and once you’ve sipped this hand-poured drink, you’ll be asking for another. Frozen flavors include strawberry, peach, watermelon, raspberry and mango. Upgrade to the Mayor of Ralston which uses top-shelf El Mayor Blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, and a float of Grand Marnier. Want a margarita with a kick? Try the jalapeño infused tequila!
Margarita’s
4915 South 72nd Street
Craving a cold margarita on Cinco de Mayo? This Mexican restaurant is named after the famed drink, so you know they’ll live up to the hype and offer a wide array of cocktail options. The house lime margarita is served in a 16-ounce glass for only $4 or you can mix it up and try a jalapeño watermelon marg or Tamarindo margarita. If you’re sharing with the table, order a pitcher or the margarita tower and keep the good times rolling. Enjoy happy hour Monday through Thursday between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
Mula
3932 Farnam Street
Located in Omaha’s historic Blackstone District, Mula serves up some of the best margs in town. Keep it simple with the house margarita or mix it up with a strawberry cocktail or a margarita shaken with mezcal. Order the flight if you can’t decide on just one! The flight comes with the house margarita, as well as the cucumber and jalapeño variations. Want to celebrate at home? Mula offers margs to go as well. Happy hour runs all day Monday and between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM on the remaining weekdays. Enjoy $7 margaritas, 50% off ounce pours of tequila and mezcal, and discounted queso, elote, and chicken rolled tacos.
Roja Mexican Grill
17010 Wright Plaza
At Roja Grill, you’ll find house margaritas such as the premium lime or the Mexican Flag with strawberry, coconut, and melon. Want to upgrade your selection? Opt for the Escalade, which is mixed with top-shelf Patron Reposado, or the Taka-Rita with Ghost Tequila, lime, and mango. Patrons can also choose from an extensive tequila and mezcal menu, including reposado and añejo selections. Customize a marg of your very own this Cinco de Mayo at Roja Grill.
Visit These Mexican Restaurants in Omaha
You’ll find a multitude of options for authentic Mexican cuisine in South Omaha, particularly on the city’s historic 24th Street. This Cinco de Mayo, celebrate the holiday with classic recipes that have been passed down for decades.
El Dorado Restaurante Mexicano
5134 South 24th Street
Try the sizzling fajitas at El Dorado Restaurante, served with peppers, onions, and your choice of shrimp, ribeye, or chicken. The mole poblano con pollo is cooked with authentic Mexican spices and is arguably the most famous mole in all of Mexico. Sharing with a friend? The parrillada el gran corral is a combination of beef, chicken, pork, Mexican sausage, quail, potatoes, chiles, and beans.
Taqueria Tijuana
5139 South 24th Street
Boasting some of the best tacos in Nebraska, Taqueria Tijuana should be at the top of your list this Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy $2 taco Tuesdays or enjoy a delicious torta made with telera bread from International Bakery. The taqueria opened a second location in West Omaha in K Street Plaza this past January, allowing more Omahans to enjoy the classic flavors of Mexican street food and comfort cuisine.
Isla del Mar
5101 South 36th Street
Isla del Mar specializes in Mexican seafood dishes and is proud to use only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant is family-owned and operated, so you can feel good about supporting local. Try one of the seafood cocktails, featuring shrimp, octopus, scallops, or even oysters. Not big on seafood? Isla del Mar has an array of fajitas on the menu, as well as chicken enchiladas.
Taqueria el Rey
5201 South 24th Street
Taqueria el Rey has several locations around Omaha, including their taco truck that can be found on Leavenworth Street. Tacos, tortas, burritos, nachos, and enchiladas are just a few of their specialities. Wash down your carnitas with a cold Mexican Coke or a strawberry smoothie. For dessert, you’ll find a selection of flan, churros, cheesecake, and even a cookie butter cake! Swing by for breakfast and fuel your day with a traditional Mexican plate of eggs, bacon, beans, and rice.
Remember to Celebrate Responsibly this Cinco de Mayo
As with any celebration or holiday where drinks are poured and groups are gathered, it’s important to enjoy the festivities responsibly. If you’re attending festivals, parades, or other gatherings this Cinco de Mayo and plan to imbibe — make sure to designate a driver or call an Uber.
While dogs are allowed at Omaha’s Cinco de Mayo parade and festival, pups should be leashed. The concrete may be hot, so take care to protect sensitive paws from the hot ground. Dogs that are prone to aggression should be left at home for the safety of all attendees.
¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!
Our team at NP Dodge wishes you a safe holiday celebration. Enjoy Omaha’s parade and maybe try your moves out at Zumbamania! What event are you most looking forward to this year at Omaha’s 2024 Cinco de Mayo Festival?