Cinco de Mayo in San Diego

San Diego’s been influenced by Mexico since its earliest days, preserved in Old Town State Historic Park. So it’s no wonder that you’ll find one of the best Cinco de Mayo celebrations north of the border here in San Diego. The Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo spreads over three days, May 5-7, 2017, marking a Mexican victory over the French army with music, dance, food, and more.

Both traditional and modern Mexican culture is celebrated at the festival. There will be mariachi bands and norteno music, folk dancing, the masked wrestlers of lucha libre, and tricked out cars. The kids area includes pony rides and a petting zoo. There’ll be restaurant specials all through Old Town.

You’ll also find a Cinco de Mayo celebration in San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park. There’ll be a special concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion along with San Diego’s best food trucks. The park is also home to the San Diego Museum of Man, where the Maya: Heart of Sky, Heart of Earth exhibit explores the culture of one of Mexico’s original peoples.

Food in San Diego is influenced by Mexico throughout the year. You’ll find great restaurants showcasing fresh fish tacos and other great Mexican flavors all through town.

Best Western Plus Island Palms is just a few miles from Old Town and from Balboa Park, making it a great location for your Cinco de Mayo visit to San Diego. You can start your Cinco de Mayo celebration with breakfast at our Blue Wave Bar & Grill, where the menu includes a breakfast burrito and breakfast quesadilla as well as traditional pancakes and waffles. Maybe toast to the day ahead with a Big Wave Margarita? There’s more Mexican-inspired options on the lunch and dinner menus, too, making it easy to celebrate Cinco de Mayo all weekend long whether you’re here in May or December.