Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s astounding victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. But in the United States? It doubles as an excuse to mix margaritas, shake your hips to Mariachi music, and revel in colorful festivities (with a healthy dose of day-drinking). Gay Cinco de Mayo travel offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture with a dash of queer flair. Looking to outdo your fiestas this year? You’ll find LGBTQ+-friendly events bursting with vibrant energy in these fabulous destinations:
Los Angeles
Fiesta Cantina
Ma’ams, queens, and everyone in between, Fiesta Cantina in West Hollywood is the spot when it comes to Tex-Mex feasting and margarita cocktails that hit all the right notes. Cruise the California cuties as pitchers of tequila flow, and the party vibe climbs.
Fiesta Broadway
Beyond the Gayborhood, check out Fiesta, the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration worldwide. Think vibrant parades, sensational street food, mariachi music, and carnival rides. It’s a family-friendly fiesta with enough glittery energy to make your heart flutter.
Chicago
Las Mananitas
Chicago’s Boystown delivers everything you’re craving at Las Mananitas. Their margaritas? Dangerously strong. Their mole sauce? Abuela-approved. Just don’t be surprised when one margarita too many has you swearing off tequila… again.
Little Village Parade
For a more traditional vibe, head over to Chicago’s “Mexico of the Midwest,” Little Village, where the city’s parade concludes in Douglas Park. Expect authentic food stalls, live music, and the spirit of Mexican pride on full display.
New York City
Arriba Arriba
Celebrate with sabor and soul at Arriba Arriba, a beloved LGBTQ+ haven in Hell’s Kitchen for 40 years. Founded by a queer Peruvian actor and sustained by a fierce, loving community, it’s where Broadway meets bold flavors. Come for the iconic Drag Brunch, stay for the spicy margaritas, disco vibes, and family-style warmth. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s queer NYC history on a plate.
Citywide Festivities
Take your Cinco spirit downtown, midtown, or wherever the mariachi serenades lead you. NYC ensures there’s no shortage of parades and cultural celebrations for the curious queer at heart.
Miami
Twist
The spicy beats of Miami’s South Beach heat up at Twist, where go-go boys steal the spotlight, cheap margaritas reign supreme, and tequila shots fuel the Latin flair fiesta. Pro tip? Dial it back before sunrise because those ocean views aren’t as magical with a pounding headache.
South Beach Shenanigans
Prefer something sandy? Beachside bars serve margaritas galore while locals turn the shore into a sultry playground of sun and sombreros.
Other Must-Party Cities
If you’re looking to spice up your Gay Cinco de Mayo travel checklist, don’t limit yourself! These cities roll out the welcome mat and plenty of rainbow confetti too.
- San Antonio, TX: Authentic vibes abound at the iconic Market Square, where mariachi and taco trucks dominate the scene.
- Denver, CO: Chihuahua races? Taco-eating competitions? Denver doesn’t hold back during its two-day festival in Civic Center Park.
- San Diego, CA: Old Town transforms with folkloric dances, mariachi tunes, and traditional Mexican fare.
- Portland, OR: Local artistry meets cultural traditions at their Cinco celebration, topped with tequila tastings.
- Phoenix, AZ: Expect an LGBTQ+-inclusive extravaganza where fiesta meets philanthropy, funding scholarships for Latinx students.
Wherever you choose to celebrate, Cinco de Mayo offers the perfect opportunity to honor Mexican culture and heritage with a side of celebration and fun. So grab your friends, put on some sombreros, and cheers to this festive holiday! Viva Cinco de Mayo!
Making Your Gay Cinco de Mayo Celebration Truly Unique
If you’re more into a low-key celebration, you can still honor the holiday in ways that feel meaningful and fun. Cook up some traditional Mexican dishes at home (tacos and tequila, please), or have a cozy movie night featuring films that highlight Mexican culture and history—bonus points for those with LGBTQ+ representation. Supporting Latinx-owned and LGBTQ+ Mexican businesses—whether it’s ordering takeout, buying handmade art, or tipping your favorite queer bartender—makes your celebration even more impactful.
Want to make it a little extra? Infuse your celebration with queer culture:
- Embrace Queer Mexican Heroes: Celebrate icons like Frida Kahlo, the bold bisexual artist, and Salvador Novo, the fearless gay writer who redefined Mexican literature. Their stories are a reminder that queer voices have always been part of the culture.
- Queer Cinco de Mayo Fashion: Rock a rainbow-infused huipil, or glam up a charro suit with pride pins and flair. Fashion is resistance—and fabulous.
- Support LGBTQ+ Mexican Creatives: Decorate with art by queer Mexican creators, sip cocktails from queer-owned brands, or vibe to playlists featuring LGBTQ+ Mexican musicians. Celebrate culture and community.
- Learn and Advocate: Cinco de Mayo can be a time to reflect on progress, too. Learn about LGBTQ+ rights in Mexico and support advocacy orgs pushing for equality. Celebration and activism go hand in hand.
By blending Mexican traditions with queer pride, you create a celebration that’s not only colorful and delicious, but also meaningful and community-centered. Because honoring culture and identity—together—is what makes Gay Cinco de Mayo travel unforgettable.