Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Sonoma County, 2008

¡It’s time for fiesta! Get ready for plenty of Mexican food, drink, dance and music in celebration of Cinco de Mayo in Sonoma County. Contrary to what many people think, Cinco de Mayo (which means “the 5th of May” in Spanish) is not the Mexican Independence Day—that’s September 16. Instead, May 5th commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla, which occurred about 52 years after Mexico gained its independence from Spain. But, even after Mexico declared its independence, it still had to fight fought many skirmishes afterwards to retain its sovereignty. The May 5th conflict was one of these many battles. But, what made this one worthy of its own holiday is that a small band of Mexican soldiers defeated a French army that was twice its size and better equipped. So, in essence, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the invincible spirit of the Mexican people. Celebrate that spirit at these Sonoma County events:

Monday May 5 : Cinco de Mayo in Roseland

Last year (2007), this was the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration north of the Golden Gate and drew about 12,000 revelers. This year, organizers are expecting a smaller turnout because the 5th falls on Monday, instead of last year’s weekend celebration. Plus, they figure the economic slump probably won’t be helping things out either. Nevertheless, this Roseland event is sure to be where the party is. It begins at 4 p.m. with a parade of schoolchildren on Sebastopol Road in front of the former Albertsons shopping center. The entertainment continues with kids’ attractions, educational and informational booths, a variety of international foods from around Latin America, and more. This is a family-friendly, non-alcoholic event.
4 – 10pm; Free admission, 650 Sebastopol Rd. in Santa Rosa

Monday May 5 : Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on the Windsor Town Green

Family event featuring musical entertainment by two bands, Universo Musical and Mariachi Jalisc, and by dance troupe Ballet Folklorico Sarita. Plus, crafts projects for children of all ages and food & beverages available for sale.
5 – 8pm.; Free; Windsor Town Green, 9455 Bell Road. (707) 838-1260

Saturday May 3 : Cinco de Mayo at Robledo Family Winery

Reynaldo Robledo started his career 30 years ago as an immigrant farm worker. He now owns 220 acres of prime grape growing land. Enjoy traditional Mexican food paired with Robledo wines. Also, live entertainment.
Noon to 3 p.m.; $55, reservations required; 21901 Bonness Rd., Sonoma. Contact Nadine at (707) 939-6903.

Sunday May 4: Cinco de Mayo on the Sonoma Plaza

Food, games, and entertainment celebrating Mexican-American culture.
10am – 5pm; Sonoma Plaza, (707) 938-5131

Where to Eat and Drink on Cinco de Mayo

• If you go to the Roseland Cinco de Mayo Celebration, keep in mind that Sebastopol Rd. is lined with some of the top taquerias in Sonoma County. La Texanita, which is just down the street from the festival, is one of the best. If you cross Dutton Ave. and walk a short distance east on Sebastopol Rd., you’ll see the small restaurant at 250 Sebastopol Rd. Serving delicious and authentic Mexican food, they open at night and stay open until the wee hours of the morning.
  
  
• Granted, the Cantina restaurant in downtown Santa Rosa will never be confused with an authentic Mexican establishment. But, they have a great people-watching patio right on Courtyard Square where you can enjoy their yummy margaritas. My friend calls them “7-11 slushy-style margaritas.” Which is fine by me because I like slushies. For Cinco de Mayo, the Cantina is throwing a party starting Friday night and continuing on until Monday the 5th with live music each day starting at 3pm. Last call is at 1:45 a.m. 500 4th St, Santa Rosa. (707) 523-3663
  
  
• Old Mexico Restaurant, on the east side of Santa Rosa, is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, Mexican Restaurant in town. They opened in 1965 and they’ve been throwing a Cinco de Mayo bash for about a third of that time. There will be plenty of drink and dinner specials all weekend, including Monday. Plus, a live band will play on Monday at 6pm and perhaps on Saturday as well. Cover charge, if any, will probably be $5. (Call closer to the date for more details.) 4501 Montgomery Dr., Santa Rosa. (707) 539-2599.