City Hosts Salsa Contest, Games at Cinco de Mayo Party

Spice up your Sunday—the city is hosting a family-friendly Cinco de Mayo celebration noon to 5 p.m. at .

This year’s festival will feature live entertainment with the salsa music of Bombachanté, the mariachi band Alta California de Carlos Villalobos and a Folklórico dance performance by Herencia Mexicana. 

Enter your best recipe in a homemade salsa tasting contest and play Lotería, a children's card game. There will also be rides, opportunities to make crafts, artisan vendors and traditional Mexican foods and treats.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the defeat of the French army by the Mexicans at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is primarily celebrated in the state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla, but not as much in other parts of Mexico.

The festival's master of ceremonies is performance artist Maria Elena Gaitan. Organizers aid she will bring "interesting and humorous commentary" on the historical significance of the cultural celebration.

For more information, visit the city's park’s website at vapark.smgov.net or call (310) 458-8688. 

Parking is limited, so organizers encourage attendees to walk, bike (bike valet will be available) or take the Big Blue Bus. Virginia Avenue Park is at 2200 Virginia Ave.