Celebrating Mexico’s victory over French forces in Puebla, Mexico in 1862, this free festival takes place during one of Mexico’s most important holidays. The Cinco de Mayo festival is located along LA’s oldest street that was first settled by Mexican immigrants in the 1780s, and today attracts thousands to partake in traditional food, drinks, music, entertainment and art. There are plenty of twirling folklorico dancers, mariachi music and sizzling Mexican food to be found here. The vendors also offer a variety of authentic items and carnival rides and games. There are also community-service oriented booths and arts and crafts stations. This year, the headliner is still being kept a secret, but other groups that will be playing include Roncovacoco and La Santa Cecilia.