Marietta Honors Mexican Pride with Cinco de Mayo

Many folks just don't understand the real importance and significance of Cinco de Mayo, either thinking it's Mexican Independence Day or just a day for margarita consumption. (It's definitely not the former, and there are tequila mixed drink lovers who would contest the latter.)

In truth, Cinco de Mayo honors the Mexican Army's incredible defeat of French fores at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. And it is a day that is primarily celebrated in the state of Puebla and in the United States to celebrate Mexican heritage and pride.

But many don't want the history lesson, so here are a few places taking note of May 5 in Marietta this year.

1. Pappasito's Cantina, 2788 Windy Hill Road. Despite the Spanish-tinge to the name, the Pappasito's chain is part of the Pappas Restaurant Group formed by a Greek family years ago. Yet, somehow Pappasito's does the Mexican fare (or really Tex-Mex fare) in fantastic fashion. Anyway, this is a great place to celebrate no matter if it's May 5 or 6 or 7 or....

2. Pick a bar, any bar and they will likely have a Cinco de Mayo party or drink special.

3. The Therapeutic Program with is holding a variety of Cinco de Mayo parties from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at recreation centers across the county. For Marietta, the closest one will be held at Lost Mountain Park and will include a celebration, game and food.

For information, contact Ann Bonds at ann.bonds@cobbcounty.org or 770-819-3257.

4. The offers its own take for the holiday by calling its event "Cinco De Wino." Held from 5 to 7 p.m. on May 5, the shop will feature complimentary sangria and Mexican appetizers. The Marietta Wine Market has a full week of events in celebration of its six years near the Marietta Square. Visit www.mariettawinemarket.com for details.

5. Although the Yaarab Shrine Circus closes a full four days before the actual date of Cinco de Mayo, organizers have marketed this weekend at the carnival and circus as a "Cinco de Mayo Family Weekend Celebration."

For Friday, the flea market opens at 10 a.m.; the circus parade begins at 6 p.m. and the circus performs at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, the flea market opens at 8:30 a.m. and the parade starts at 3 p.m. The circus will perform at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. On Sunday, the flea market opens at 10 a.m. and the parade begins at 3 p.m. The circus will perform at 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10.