SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The sounds of Banda and mariachi music took over Cesar Chavez Plaza Sunday afternoon for a Cinco de Mayo celebration, called Festival de Chavez.
"We are celebrating the culture in the heart of the city," said event organizer Natasha Wilson.
Sunday's event included vendors, music and live performances. Dancers of all ages showed off their moves, including Folklorico dancers who waved vibrant skirts.
Dozens also gathered to watch luchadores wrestle in the ring.
"We're really just trying to utilize this plaza for the community," Wilson said "Making it a fun and safe, clean environment."
The celebration of Cinco de Mayo dates back more than a century.
While some might have heard it marks Mexican Independence Day, that's actually celebrated in September.
Cinco de Mayo is the anniversary of Mexican troops victory over French forces during the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The victory took place on May 5, or Cinco de mayo.
For Sacramentans today, it's a time to come together and celebrate culture.
Cesar Chavez Plaza will be home to dozens of events throughout the spring and summer, including Concerts in the Park and the Mercado Urbano Thursday Night Markets. The next concert in the park is this Friday and the next night market is on May 16.
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