Cinco de Mayo and Fiestas Patrias: Party Music for Houston
Houston celebrates Mexican heritage twice a year with big parties: Cinco de Mayo on May 5, and Fiestas Patrias around Mexican Independence Day on September 16. Both call for live music, and both are popular with companies, community groups and families.
Here is what each celebration means, the music that fits, and the acts to book.
Two Different Celebrations
Cinco de Mayo (May 5)
Commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is celebrated more widely in the United States than in most of Mexico.
Fiestas Patrias (September 15 and 16)
Mexican Independence Day. Celebrations begin the night of September 15 with the Grito, the cry of independence, and continue on the 16th.
Mariachi
Mariachi is the heart of both celebrations: strolling through a crowd, performing a set before dinner, or leading the Grito. These are the mariachi ensembles Avalon Music books.
Cumbia, Salsa and Tejano for Dancing
After mariachi, a Latin band keeps the dance floor full. These acts list cumbia, merengue, bachata or Tejano in their song lists.
Songs for the Party
- “Cielito Lindo” by Quirino Mendoza y Cortés
The "Ay, ay, ay, ay" chorus everyone sings.
- “El Son de la Negra” (traditional)
The unofficial anthem of mariachi.
- “Volver, Volver” by Vicente Fernández
A ranchera singalong that gets the whole room going.
- “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” by Selena
A Texas must for the dance floor.
- “Baila Esta Cumbia” by Selena
The cumbia that fills every Houston dance floor.
- “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
Rock and roll with Mexican roots.
Planning Tips
Book early for dates near May 5 and September 16. Both are busy weekends for mariachi.
Many hosts book mariachi for the first hour and a Latin band or DJ for the rest of the night. You can mix and match ensembles for each part of an event.
For an outdoor party, plan a covered area for the musicians. Houston in May and September can be hot and wet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cinco de Mayo Mexican Independence Day?
No. Cinco de Mayo marks the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Mexican Independence Day is September 16, celebrated during Fiestas Patrias.
How long should mariachi play?
Many parties book mariachi for a set of about an hour, often at the start of the event or around a key moment such as the Grito. Ask for a quote for the time you need.
Can the band play in both English and Spanish?
Several Avalon acts blend English and Spanish music, from Top 40 to cumbia and Tejano. Our bilingual entertainment guide explains more.