Know the history of Cinco de Mayo.

Your restaurant doesn’t have to be Mexican to participate in the fun. However, it does have to be respectful of Mexican culture and educated about the holiday’s origin. This is not Mexico’s Independence Day (that is September 16th). The day commemorates the day of the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, under General Ignacio Zaragoza’s leadership.

Be mindful of stereotypes.

Throughout your promotion planning, remember to stay mindful of Mexico’s culture and stereotypes that can quickly get out of hand. Be careful not to offend Mexico’s culture.

Cinco de Mayo Drink Ideas

According to Nielsen, there is more beer consumed on Cinco de Mayo than on St. Patrick’s Day. Beyond stocking up on Mexican beers like Corona, Modelo, and Sol, the holiday allows you to perfect some classic cocktails. Top them off with Cinco de Mayo toothpick flags.

Margarita

This quintessential Mexican cocktail traditionally includes tequila, Cointreau, lime, and sugar served in a salt-rimmed glass, but the variations are endless.

Paloma

The Paloma consists of an ice-cold, salt-rimmed glass filled with a mixture of grapefruit soda, tequila, and a squeeze of lime. There are variations made with grapefruit juice, which offers a trendy, refreshing twist on the margarita.

Michelada

The Michelada mixes lime juice, hot sauce, clamato (tomato and clam juice), salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Then it’s topped off with chile and salt-rimmed glass with an ice-cold light beer.

Encourage Drinking Responsibly

Consider offering $5 Lyft or Uber codes, a taxi, or see if the local police are offering rides to guests that need a ride. Provide a complimentary non-alcoholic cocktail if a group of friends has a designated sober driver. Make some Custom Toothpick Flags with your restaurant info on one side and Designated driver on the other.