An Authentic and Uplifting Cinco de Mayo in the Multicultural Nook of The Mission District

When Nook Sales Experts match a buyer with their dream home, the only thing as important as architectural style is the neighborhood. That’s why we’re bringing you the #NookNeighborhoods series, where every Wednesday you’ll find cool history and culture to make sure you don’t overlook an area that could have the best nook for you.

1862 was a true David and Goliath victory for the Mexican army when they overcame more than triple the number of French forces. Although that fifth of May did not end their invasions into their country, the pride in their win resonated north through much of California, with impromptu celebrations by Mexican miners. Since that day, America has enjoyed Cinco de Mayo, even as Mexico largely ignores the holiday. The 1960s Chicano movement brought some momentum to it outside of California, and with beer companies capitalizing in the 1990s, new traditions are still growing across the United States.

It’s interesting to see, then, where some of the more authentic and fun celebrations land by the time we get to 2018. No one should be surprised that the Mission District in San Francisco has hosted an incredible festival for fourteen years. Through Mexican and Latin American food, dance, music and vendors, their goal is for attendees to “enjoy rich cultural experiences and activities focused on retaining cultural traditions in its community.”

In other words, it’s about a lot more than just selling beer. With San Francisco’s rich heritage and co-mingling of cultures, that’s like second nature to The Bay Area. Presented by Mission Neighborhood Centers, Inc., they have Kids Zones and health screenings, and even a designated safe space for undocumented people. For years, the event has been held at Valencia Street between 21st and 24th Streets, with Orchestra Adelante kicking off by blessing the community stages, performances by Adelante Mujeres, the all-girl salsa band, and last year The DIrection: Ability Advocates rallied the crowd around inclusion and diversity of abilities.

Separate beer gardens keep it family friendly, and the organizers work hard every year to ensure that no one is left behind. True to the values of Mission Neighborhood Centers, the event is always free, with every venue and vendor working to make their fare accessible to everyone. Although they haven’t announced the 2018 lineup yet, you can be sure the entire day will overfill with mariachi, Ballet Folklorico, Zumbathons, choirs and musicians of all ages, if past years are any indication.

This Nook Neighborhood has its own style down pat by now, so take the train to the Mission District for a massive celebration of the Mexican culture inherent in their history. If you like the area, take a tour and Search With Style©; maybe this is where your next home lives.