Contrary to what over 40% of Americans think, according to a YouGov survey, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day–that’s on September 16. Instead, it commemorates the day of a Mexican victory over France that took place on May 5, 1862.

Time, and Festivities Are Planned Across the US. but in Mexico, Not So Much The United States is gearing up for Cinco de Mayo. Music, all-day happy hours and deals on tacos are planned at venues across the country on Sunday — May 5 — in a celebration with widely misunderstood origins that is barely recognized south of the border.

Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on May 5 every year, the day Mexico won over the Second French Empire in the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

In the U.S., where it's celebrated with tacos, tequila and margarita specials, Cinco de Mayo is often incorrectly believed to be Mexico's Independence Day. Reality check: Cinco de Mayo — or, in English,

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862.

The Mexican holiday actually marks the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.