Macon Bars and Restaurants Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

It's May the 5th, and people across the country are packing Mexican bars and restaurants to celebrate. But do they know what they are celebrating?

"I have no idea what Cinco de Mayo is," Richard Bell admits. "I just know it's a Mexican holiday, or celebration. And it's a celebration for drinking margaritas I suppose."

Richard's wife, Illona, only knows what the translation means, but she says, that is good enough for her.

"I know it's the 5th of May! And I know it's a celebration, a big party. So we're having a good time," Illona said.

 

The celebration, while maybe a little misunderstood, is to remember when the Mexican army defeated the French army in 1862. The battle took place in Puebla, Mexico, with the Mexican army being able to defend the city with about half the number of troops the French came to fight with.

But, despite the fact not everyone out celebrating with a margarita in hand knows exactly what they are drinking to, Mexican bars and restaurants are reaping the rewards of people wanting an excuse to have a drink.

"I wasn't even going to have a margarita when I walked in here, but I decided I was going to have one because it's a Mexican celebration," Richard admits, just as he takes a sip from his salty rimmed glass.