Cinco de Mayo is here, bringing plenty of margaritas, taco parties and live music with it.
Last year’s festivities were — for the most part — put on hold due to the rising pandemic, but as more and more folks are becoming vaccinated against COVID-19 and warmer weather returns, events are making their way back into our lives.
And while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced that it’s OK to spend time outside unmasked, you should always wear your mask when crowds make it difficult to socially distance outside — even if you’re vaxxed.
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, here are cinco ways to celebrate in the Queen City:
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta with Pata Roja Taqueria and Friends
Cincinnati taco pop-up Pata Roja Taqueria recently grew some roots in the back patio space of Pendleton's Saeso bar. Their Cinco de Mayo party kicks off at 3 p.m. on May 5 and will feature a limited menu of tacos al pastor, sweet potato tacos and chips and guacamole. Grab a cerveza from Saeso's The Cantina and enjoy music from local artist Pxvce from 6-10 p.m. A portion of the sale proceeds will benefit Kentucky's Esperanza Latina Center. 3-10 p.m. May 5. Free admission. Pata Roja Taqueria, 1208 Sycamore St., Pendleton.
Covington Yard Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Northern Kentucky entertainment hub Covington Yard is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with drink specials, live music and food. Enjoy jams from 3 Piece Revival from 6-9 p.m., and sip on discounted Hornitos drinks during happy hour from 4-7 p.m. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. May 5. Free admission. Covington Yard, 401 Greenup St., Covington.
Cinco de Mayo Party on the Purple
Head to the pedestrian-only Purple People Bridge (aka the Newport Southbank Bridge) on Cinco de Mayo for a celebration with margs, live music and plenty of tacos, perched above the breezy Ohio River. The party kicks off at 6 p.m. and continues through 10:30 p.m. Enjoy bites from two food trucks and wash it down with Little Kings, VIVE Punch, Braxton beers and margaritas. 6-10:30 p.m. May 5. Free admission. Purple People Bridge, 425 York St., Newport.
Fountain Square Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Downtown’s Fountain Square is hosting a ticketed Cinco de Mayo party with eats and drinks from Gomez Salsa and hours of music. Tickets cost $10 per person and include nachos and a Gomez marg. Additional food and drinks will be available for purchase. The party kicks off at 4:45 p.m. with music from Mariachi LF and DJ Tony Pabon. 4:45-9:15 p.m. May 5. $10. Fountain Square, 520 Vine St., Downtown.
Sinkhole de Mayo at The Hi-Mark
A portion of the East End’s Riverside Drive was devoured by a sinkhole in January, and in honor of the road’s reopening, The Hi-Mark is dubbing its celebration, “Sinkhole de Mayo.” This party is actually taking place on Saturday, May 8 — a few days after the holiday — but it's an excellent option for those who have to work on Wednesday, or don’t feel like being hungover on Thursday. The party will include drinks and games. May 8. Free admission. The Hi-Mark, 3229 Riverside Drive, East End.
