We can argue about whether Cinco de Mayo is a “proper” holiday traditionally celebrated by people in Mexico or if it’s some made-up thing that only happens within shouting distance of the U.S./Mexico border or if its nothing more than an annual excuse for Caucasian folks to eat too many street tacos and drink too much Mexican beer. But I think we can all agree on one thing … that bit about the tacos and the beer sounds pretty good.
So with the 5th of May upon us this Tuesday, where can we go in the Albuquerque area for some food and drink and a bit of South of the Border fun?
Cinco de Mayo Karaoke with KJ Luci
What better way to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 than by belting out some karaoke? Admission is free. Tractor Brewing Wells Park (1800 Fourth NW), 7 to 10 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo Karaoke with Famous Amos
But what if you live on the Westside and desperately need to perform Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” in tribute to General Ignacio Zaragoza? Not to worry, Famous Amos has got you covered. Admission is free her too. Tractor Brewing Westside (5720 McMahon Blvd. NW), 6 to 9 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Are you ready to party for Cinco de Mayo? OT Sports promises “the very best in Northern New Mexico music” with multi-award-winning legends Sangre Joven, B&X Sound and “The Polka Queen” LaTrisha. Tickets are $5 presale or $20 at the door. OT Sports Bar and Grill (4100 San Mateo Blvd. NE), 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo Street Taco Tuesday
If you need a lead on tacos, word on the street is Cafe Bella has heard that Cinco de Mayo falls on Taco Tuesday this year and is offering taco fans slow-roasted carne adovado or chipotle adobo chicken street tacos. Cafe Bella Coffee (2115 Golf Course Rd. SE) open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo Blacklight with Sangria
https://kellyjodesignsbywine.com/events/5-5-cinco-de-mayo-blacklight-canvas-class-w-sangria-class-645pm-38/Kelly Jo Designs in Corrales is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a dramatic wine-and-painting class, held partially under blacklight. Your first sangria is included with the ticket price and a food truck full of tacos will be right outside waiting for you. Come early to hear the sounds of Girasol playing Latin Jazz and modern Latin Pop music, starting at 6 p.m. Price is $38 per person, and you can sign up at kellyjodesignsbywine.com. Kelly Jo Designs by Wine (6829 Fourth NW), 6:45 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo at Calavida
Calavida Cantina in Corrales seems like the appropriate place to celebrate anything Mexican. This Cinco de Mayo, they’re getting into the spirit with $5 Margaritas all day and $1 street tacos from 3 to 6 p.m. And for your entertainment, there’s a live performance by Spanish Broom Flamenco from 6 to 7 p.m. No cover charge. Calavida Cantina (10200 Corrales Rd.), 3 to 9 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo with Felix y Los Gatos
Kaktus Brewing in Bernalillo gets loud with the high-energy sounds of local fave Felix y Los Gatos. This New Mexico power trio brings a spicy mix of cumbia, blues, zydeco and Tex-Mex swing to the holiday. No cover charge. Kaktus Brewing Co. (471 South Hill), 6 to 9 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo Bad Bunny Night w/ DJ Clout
DJ Clout heads up the hill for a night of Latin sounds courtesy of Bad Bunny. And lest you go hungry, Yummy Marciana will be doing the food truck thing outside, serving up taco Tuesday eats. No cover charge. Tractor Nob Hill (118 Tulane Dr. SE), 7 p.m.
Love Where You Live Fiesta
Head out to the other side of the Sandias for a vibrant Cinco de Mayo night at JUNO Edgewood. The joint promises live music, signature Margaritas, a raffle and auction and a special taco menu with vegetarian options. No cover charge. JUNO Edgewood (1913 U.S. Route 66), 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cinco de Mayo with Ryan Painter
Shine up your cowboy boots and invite all your country music loving friends for a night out in Sandia Park. Ryan Painter provides the music, Lazy Lizard provides the food and drink. No cover charge. Lazy Lizard Grill (12480 NM-14), 6 to 8:30 p.m.