Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Picks

Throughout southern California, there are scores of fantastic Cinco de Mayo celebrations—all just a short drive from your West Hills hotel. The annual Silverado Chili Cook-Off and Cinco de Mayo Festival kicks off at the Silverado Canyon Fairgrounds (27641 Silverado Canyon Road in Orange County) on Saturday. Mexican folk activities, mariachi bands, traditional dancing and of course the hottest cook-off in town are all part of what makes this celebration special.

The Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in San Clemente (Max Berg Plaza Park) is nearly 30 years old and is known for world-class salsa dance performances, a bevy of Mexican cuisine, and mariachi bands. There are many activities just for little ones, too, like face painting and carnival games. From 2 – 6 p.m., check out this family-friendly festival designed for all ages.

Fiesta Season

Rancho Days Fiesta at the Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest is a landmark with its four historical buildings. Each of the buildings date back to the era of Mexican ranchos, making it the ultimate destination for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy Native American dancing, ranching activities that tap into the early California agricultural days, piñata breakings, and Rancho-era music and dancing.

The annual Cinco de Mayo Festival in Santa Ana takes place at 20 Civic Center Plaza. So massive that it requires two days, you can party on both Saturday and Sunday along with 150,000 fiesta-goers. Food and fun are at the heart of this fiesta with a carnival, live music, and much more.

Where will your first stop take you?