Let’s celebrate Cinco de Mayo right here in Central Florida! There are plenty of parties to go to, however, do you know what you are celebrating? For most Americans it is simply a good reason to party.

Many people think the annual celebration on May 5th is the Mexican Independence Day. However, Cinco de Mayo is actually the celebration commemorating the Mexican militia victory over the French army in the 1862 Battle of Puebla.  Still this day is a day to celebrate in Mexico, however, you don’t have to be Mexican to get into the party spirit. Besides, where else will you get a chance to wear that sombrero?

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Downtown Orlando

At Wall Street Plaza, an annual Cinco de Mayo street party will span a city block.  There will be Mexican food, party music (including Adam Moreno Project), and drinks including Mexican beer specials, margaritas and tequila shots.

Also in the downtown area is the City of Orlando Cinco de Mayo Street Party. From 4pm to 2am the street will be closed at 41 W. Church Street. Music & alcohol will be served with a $10 entry.

Just off the beaten path (and out of the ordinary) of downtown will be the Southern Nights Cinco de Mayo celebration starting at 9pm. It will feature a drag performance, drink specials and a performance by DJ DLux. It is free for 21 or older until 11 p.m. or with college ID until midnight and $5 afterwards and $5 for ages 18-20.

Southern Nights is located at 375 S. Bumby Ave., Orlando. Free for 21 or older until 11 p.m. or with college ID until midnight and $5 afterwards and $5 for ages 18-20.

Other Orlando Areas to Celebrate

Down the road from Capone’s Dinner & Show is Old Town in Kissimmee. The Cinco de Mayo celebration there will consist of a mariachi band, stilt walkers, authentic Mexican food, an interactive DJ and full-service outdoor bars. The party starts at 5 p.m. at 5770 Highway 17-92 in Kissimmee. There is a $10 admission.

In west Orlando, celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar. They will give away free tequila pouring and other giveaways in addition to their drink specials. The celebration will also feature performances by the Pancho Villas mariachi band, the Leonard Brothers and DJs. The party starts at noon at 7468 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando.

At Pointe Orlando, the party will get started at 7pm at Howl at the Moon. The famous dueling pianos show along with drink specials are the highlight of this night. They are located at 8815 International Drive, Orlando.

In Metro West, you’ll find the celebration at the Teak Neighborhood Grill located at 6400 Times Square Ave., Orlando. A variety of food specials will go with their drink specials and the party starts early – 11:00am!

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Winter Park, Apopka, Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach

In Winter Park, check out Cocina 214 as they also celebrate their five-year anniversary. The fiesta will include drink specials and giveaways starting at 4pm. They are located at 151 E. Welbourne Ave., Winter Park.

In Apopka, go to the Northwest Recreation Complex for a cultural festival featuring music, folk dancing, food and children’s activities. This party is on Saturday at 3710 Jason Dwelley Parkway, Apopka. Admission is $5 adults, free for ages 12 and younger.

A great party and fun event will be held at the Daytona Beach Bandshell.  Here they will try to set a Guinness World Record with their parade of costumed chihuahuas! The fiesta will also include a mariachi band, food and prizes starting at noon on Saturday. The Bandshell is located at 70 Boardwalk, Daytona Beach. There is a $5 admission.

In New Smyrna Beach, the entire Flagler Avenue (Beachside) will be one big party. Several restaurants and bars celebrate Cinco de Mayo with food specials and drink specials. Nearly every location offers live music too. It is always a popular party and destination.

Of course, you can always skip the sombreros, tequila and mariachi bands for a night with the gang at Capone’s Dinner & Show. The show is hilarious and filled with loads of action – especially the gangster shoot out! With such a large buffet, you’ll be ready for a siesta. If not, it sounds like there are plenty of other late-night parties to go to if you still want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Orlando.

Have a great time enjoying the festivities, but don’t forget to plan ahead for a designated driver or a cab….. drink responsibly.

Diviértase y Disfrute de la Celebración!

Last Updated on May 3, 2023