Be Inspired Blog - Arizona
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Fresh Flowers, Flavorful Foods & Festive Traditions
Are you ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
This vibrant holiday is filled with colorful flowers, fresh ingredients, lively music, and delicious dishes that bring people together. It’s a joyful time to gather, decorate, and savor the rich cultural traditions behind the day.
But beyond the food and festivities, Cinco de Mayo also carries an inspiring story worth remembering.
According to History.com, “Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.”
In this historic moment, Mexico faced a much larger and better-equipped French army—and still emerged victorious. It’s a powerful reminder of resilience, courage, and national pride, which makes the celebration all the more meaningful.
Today, Cinco de Mayo is honored in many ways. In cities like Los Angeles, festivities reach a grand scale. Events like Fiesta Broadway draw hundreds of thousands of people with music, dancing, and incredible food. Traditional performances such as Baile folklórico—with its flowing dresses, vibrant colors, and mariachi music—bring history and culture to life in a truly unforgettable way.
Whether you attend a large celebration or keep things simple at home, there are plenty of ways to join in the spirit of the day.
Bring the Celebration Home with Flowers
Nothing sets the tone quite like fresh flowers. Many beautiful plants native to Mexico can add color and meaning to your space:
Note: Selection varies daily and by season—please check with your local SummerWinds Nursery for current availability.
Poinsettias
(Euphorbia pulcherrima)
A well-known holiday plant that actually originates in Mexico, admired for its bold, colorful foliage.
Jacarandas
(Jacaranda mimosifolia)
Known for their soft blue-lilac blooms that brighten spring landscapes.
Orchids
(Orchidaceae)
Elegant and eye-catching, with unique varieties found in regions like Oaxaca and Chiapas. (Available by special order.)
Pitaya or Dragon Fruit
(Hylocereus undatus)
A striking cactus that produces the vibrant dragon fruit.
Sunflower
(Helianthus)
Native to Mexico and historically significant, once associated with the Aztecs.
Grow Fresh Ingredients for Your Fiesta
One of the best parts of Cinco de Mayo is the fresh, bold flavors. Why not grow your own ingredients to enjoy all season long?
- Red Onions – Easy to grow and full of flavor, perfect for salsas and salads.
- Avocados – A must-have for guacamole and beyond; they thrive in well-drained soil with consistent care.
- Roma Tomatoes – Ideal for sauces, salsas, and fresh dishes.
- Citrus Trees – Limes and lemons add brightness to drinks and recipes, and they love sunny spots.
Growing your own ingredients adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every dish you serve.
Add Fresh Flavor with Homegrown Herbs
Herbs bring everything together, and many staples in Mexican cuisine are simple to grow:
- Chives – Mild and versatile
- Cilantro – Essential for salsas and garnishes
- Basil – Adds a fresh twist to many dishes
- Mint – Perfect for refreshing drinks. Tip: Grow in containers to avoid mint taking over your garden.
Whether planted in your garden, on a patio, or near a sunny window, these herbs are easy to maintain and rewarding to use.
Fresh & Festive Recipes to Try
Celebrate with simple, flavorful recipes made from fresh ingredients:
Mint Margaritas
Pluck fresh mint from your herb garden and grab a ripe lime to make this fantastic Mint Margarita recipe from Oprah.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 4 cups crushed ice
- 1 1/2 cups good-quality tequila
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 8 limes)
- 1 cup Triple Sec
Directions:
In the bottom of a large (2-quart) pitcher, crush together mint and salt, pressing with the back of a wooden spoon. Add ice. Add tequila, lime juice, and Triple Sec, stirring vigorously. Serve in short tumblers or wineglasses.
Tomato & Avocado Salad
Add a fresh salad to your Cinco de Mayo spread with this wonderful recipe from Genius Kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium vine ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 avocado, chopped
- 1⁄4 cup diced red onion
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and fresh pepper
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in small bowl and toss together; let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Celebrate with SummerWinds Nursery
Cinco de Mayo is a time to enjoy great food, meaningful traditions, and the beauty of the season. Whether you're planting a garden, decorating with flowers, or preparing a festive meal, it’s all about bringing people together.
Visit your local SummerWinds Nursery for inspiration, plants, and expert advice to help you grow, gather, and celebrate.
