Cinco de Mayo Celebration Ideas

Cinco de Mayo is Monday, and you know margaritas will be flowing at Happy Hour. But, did you know that Cinco de Mayo is actually an American holiday? I think a lot of people think it's a Mexican holiday, and many people think it's Mexico's Independence Day, but that's actually September 16. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in the Mexican state of Puebla to commemorate the Mexicans' victory over the invading French army, but, it's really not celebrated in other areas of Mexico.

According to Wikipedia: "It originated with Mexican-American communities in the American West as a way to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War, and today the date is observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride."

I grew up in California and have spent a fair amount of time in Mexico. I love the history and culture, and especially the food. Chicken mole is one of my favorites, and I'm working on perfecting a recipe using ingredients I can find here in SWFL. Once I do, I'll share it with you all here.

Last year we had a fun get-together for Cinco de Mayo - chips and salsa, enchiladas, and even a pinata for the kids. I love holidays like this, not only because I get to enjoy delicious food (Mexican is my favorite!) but also because it's a great opportunity to immerse myself and my family and friends in Mexican-American history and culture.

Carole and I are putting together a list of ideas for a repeat of last year's fun food and pool party. Here's what we have so far:

1. Annie's Eats has a fun recipe for Guava Margaritas. I think you could leave out the tequila to make a sweet non-alcoholic drink for the kids too. 
2. Chips and salsa, of course. Carole's favorite salsa is Pioneer Woman's Restaurant Style Salsa. The recipe looks really similar to what my husband makes, but he doesn't puree his. I may have him try that to get more of a restaurant-style feel.
3.  I love these cute individual servings of Cinco de Mayo Mini Taco Dips from Home is Where the Boat Is.
4. Last year Carole made these delicious Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas from Six Sister's Stuff. We will definitely be having these again this year!
5. Pati's Mexican Table has a delicious looking recipe for Tres Leches Cake. This is one of my very favorite desserts, so we'll have to have this as well. 
6. Jacks and Kate has a great idea for some super cute Sombrero Cookies.

What are your favorite Mexican foods? Anything we should add to the menu?