Cinco de Mayo descends upon Chicago in full force

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Cinco de Mayo celebrates the battle of Puebla in Mexico. But in the US, many enjoy the day by drinking margaritas and eating Mexican cuisine.

And now, the village of Bridgeview is finding a new way to celebrate.

Mexican music fills the bright blue sky on the first day of the Viva Cinco de Mayo Festival. This is a first in Bridgeview, happening just outside of Toyota Park.

“It's important to know your culture and where you come from,” said festival organizer Jose Aldaco.

Even if you're not Latino, Cinco de Mayo is a great reason to learn about Mexican culture and of course enjoy the food and drink from south of the border.

“The key for me is family. Making sure the kids have a great place to come to and maybe do a little study about the culture. CInco de Mayo is a very big thing, but it doesn't get celebrated enough in my opinion,” Aldaco said.

That’s being changed with the four day festival. People are being treated to live performances from local groups, and families are enjoying their time together especially on the rides, just like the Rincon family.

"Which ride do you like? I want to go on the ring. The one that goes upside down. You're brave! It's going to be my first time going on an upside down ride,” said Jesse Rincon.

Chicago has the largest population of people with Mexican heritage outside of the southwest. That means authentic food and goods are right in your backyard.

Organizers hope to create a lasting tradition that celebrates Mexican heritage.

The festival runs through Sunday, located just outside Toyota Park. Tickets for adults are $10, children get in for $5, and parking is free.

Good Day Chicago celebrated the holiday in style, bringing you coverage of one of our favorite May festivities.

Among those to grace the show today: 

  • The Mariachi Heritage Foundation

Seventeen talented musicians show off their talents in true Marachi fashion. More than 1,700 students have taken part in the Mariachi Heritage Foundation program taught in Chicago Public Schools since its founding in 2013. Participating schools include: Gary Elementary, Davis Elementary, Hurley Fine and Performing Arts Magnet Cluster, Marsh Elementary, UCSN Soccer Academy, Edwards Elementary, and Calmeca Academy.

  •  National Mexican Museum of Mexican Art

Carlos Tortolero, president of the National Museum of Mexican Art, joins Good Day Chicago to talk about the history of Cinco de Mayo and what it means to Mexican-American culture.

  • Cesar Maldonado, executive director of MHF

The first-ever Mariachi Ensembles Fundraiser will be held Friday, May 13 at the National Museum of Mexican Art. The event will feature a special performance by Marachi Ensemble and Mexican fokloric dancers as well as appetizers and drinks.