CINCO DE MAYO IS NO FIESTA

Submitted by ub on

Zacapoaxtla, Mexico is the town where the infamous Cinco de Mayo battle took place. It is now a tourist corridor in the northern mountains of Puebla, where many Mexicans who now live in New York claim their heritage..

A couple of hours drive northeast of the colonial city of Puebla, you will find Zacapoaxtla, a quiet town that serves as the commercial center. Try tayoyos, an oval shaped cake made of masa and stuffed with beans and avocados. Local ladies sell them at the central market by the thousands every day. To fully enjoy this unique treat, order a café de la olla, a local toasted coffee prepared with raw sugar and served in a clay pot. This is sure to awaken every one of your senses.

What you'll probably not find is margaritas, tequila, or mariachis playing music. On the first Cinco de Mayo, back in 1862, Mexican Army soldiers defeated French invading troops in the state of Puebla.

The heroic Indians were said to be drinking a green concoction called yolixpa. This is a local alcoholic drink that includes more than 20 native herbs. They locals listen to sones to celebrate their victory against the powerful French.

Throughout Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in the state of Puebla. Traditions include parades, and recreations of the Battle of Puebla. However, May 5 is like any other day. It is not a federal holiday, so offices, banks and stores remain open. This is not the national fiesta that most Gringo Americans assume it is.

Tequila Fortaleza Summer 2012 - Tahona: http://youtu.be/jgrlt-3NsdU

The Champs "Tequila": http://youtu.be/Uyl7GP_VMJY