With some of the country’s best Mexican food, the most interesting tequila bars, and the most diverse people, there’s no better place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than in NYC. Today we’re going to break down everything you need to know about finding the perfect Cinco de Mayo fiesta in the Big Apple.
So let’s get into the fiesta-tivities! From out of town visiting New York on Cinco de Mayo? A local looking for the best spots in the five boroughs for a very NY fiesta? Read on to see how you can celebrate in the best city on earth!
We’re biased, of course, but we think New York celebrates Cinco de Mayo as well as any other city in the US. Because New York has the biggest Latino population in the US with over 2 million, Cinco de Mayo 2024 will be filled with events. Check back as we get closer to the date since we’ll be updating this with all the must-see, must-do, and must-taste events!
What exactly is Cinco de Mayo?
May 5th, 1862 marks the day of Mexico’s victory over the French army in the Battle of Puebla. That means Cinco de Mayo 2024 is the 162nd anniversary! During that time, Cinco de Mayo has become the holiday that we love to celebrate here in the United States.
Though many people still believe Cinco de Mayo is when we celebrate Mexican Independence Day, that’s September 16th.
When is Cinco de Mayo celebrated?
This year, Cinco de Mayo will take place on Sunday, May 5th, 2024.
Is there a Cinco de Mayo parade in NYC?
In New York, there is normally a Cinco de Mayo parade that occurs either the weekend before – if Cinco de Mayo is early in the week – or the weekend after.
In 2021, the Cinco de Mayo parade was unfortunately canceled due to COVID restrictions. There were still restrictions on public gatherings in 2022. This year, the parade will once again take place on May 5.
Apart from the big Cinco de Mayo parade, there are plenty of local celebrations. This typically includes going to Mexican restaurants, indulging in Mexican food, and spending time with friends.
My recommendation? Use Cinco de Mayo as the perfect reason to celebrate New York’s unbelievable Mexican cuisine!
The Best Mexican Restaurants and Bars for Cinco de Mayo in New York
Wondering how best to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in New York? There are plenty of traditional ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in NYC. You can grab tacos from Los Tacos No. 1, taste one of the best margaritas in Manhattan at ATLA, before meeting up with your friends to dance the night away at one of the best Mexican dance spots and bars in New York at Cantina Rooftop (have you seen that view?). Or work your way through 21 different taco restaurants (map included!), then have a toast to the culture at one of the city’s best tequila and mezcal bars.
Here are some of our favorites for some of the best tacos and tequila in New York:
Where is Cinco de Mayo celebrated in NYC?
You can find Cinco de Mayo celebrations in each of NYC’s five boroughs. We’ve listed a few of our favorite Mexican restaurants from each borough below, where we’re sure you’ll find a great meal and a great Cinco de Mayo celebration.
If you’re looking for great resources to see just what’s happening where you’re staying, keep an eye on this regularly updated calendar for Cinco de Mayo 2024 events near you in New York.
01
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Harriet’s Rooftop Bar
Rooftop Bar
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DumboOur Highlight
Harriet’s Rooftop Bar belongs to the 1 Hotel in Brooklyn. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge. This year there will be a rooftop party for Cinco de Mayo!
Join this FREE event for live performances by the artistic organization Mazarte Dance Company. With a live flute and traditional Mexican dance performances they expose the history of Mexican culture. Moreover DJ Mickey Perez will entertain you with some nice beats.
- When? May 5th, 2023 from 6 PM – 10 PM
02
Haab Taqueria
Mexican Restaurant
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Park SlopeOur Highlight
Haab Taqueria emphasizes on the quality of ingredients compared to many other Mexican restaurants in New York. Everything is freshly prepared and the sauces are made in-house. With plant-based diets on the rise, Haab Taqueria has a vegan-friendly menu to accommodate non-meat eaters. You have choices between 12 different tacos: there is everything from fish to duck. Our personal favorites are the classic grilled chicken tacos!
03
Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Rooftop Bar
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Garment DistrictThe Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is located on the 18th floor of the Moxy Times Square Hotel and offers magnificent views over the city. The entrance hall resembles a gallery, with a few whimsical animal figures in naughty positions. The style of the small indoor lounge is urban-industrial, while the two outdoor areas have an almost contrasting design: If you like to enjoy the view of the Empire State Building, you should have a drink on the elegantly designed east side. If you prefer something fancier, head to the western area of the bar, as it features rotating seating, reminiscent of an antique carousel.
To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar will have a few specials starting at 3 p.m. on May 5, 2023:
- $10 Sip Margs Cans (classic or spicy)
- $50 buckets of Sip Margs Cans (choose classic, spicy, or a mix of both!)
- 20% off Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grilled Pineapple, Avocado, and Salsa Verde
- 20% off Chips & Guacamole with Tortilla Chips and Radish
04
Dos Caminos
Mexican Restaurant
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SoHoDos Casminos is especially known for its spicy guacamole and the very good sangria. The charm that the restaurant exudes in each of the 5 locations is absolutely authentic Mexican and provides a successful change after a long working day or a strenuous sightseeing day.
05
Special Cinco de Mayo offer at Rooftop Reds
Other Attraction
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DumboOur Highlight
Rooftop Reds is a really nice rooftop bar in Brooklyn. For Cinco de Mayo they have a special offer. Each guest gets two tacos (with chicken or veggies) plus sides, chips & salsa and a glass of wine for a fixed price. You’ll definitely need to make a reservation in advance. Tickets for the Cinco de Mayo menu at Rooftop Reds are available here.
06
Dos Toros Taqueria
Mexican Restaurant
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WilliamsburgDos Casminos is especially known for its spicy guacamole and the very good sangria. The charm that the restaurant exudes in each of the 5 locations is absolutely authentic Mexican and provides a successful change after a long working day or a strenuous sightseeing day.
Where will you celebrate Cinco de Mayo in New York?
With parades, events, festivals, bar crawls, taco deals, and more, Cinco de Mayo 2024 is sure to be a delicious celebration of the vibrant Mexican culture. Keep in mind that with the ever-changing health restrictions, being flexible with your plans is the key to having an unforgettable Cinco de Mayo in New York.
Now it’s your turn! This guide to Cinco de Mayo is just the beginning! Where will you go? What will you do? And how many tacos will you eat? Leave your reply below!
