Local Coachella Valley businesses celebrate Cinco de Mayo

COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ)-- Today is Cinco De Mayo, a day that commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French army in 1862. It’s also a day that celebrates Mexican food, tradition, and culture. Several Latino-owned businesses say they see an uptick in customers today, wanting to support their store.

“Although it's Monday, it will get crazy in a few more hours.," said Miguel Molina, a Co-owner of Casa Luna Mexican & Seafood restaurant. "I've been getting a lot of phone calls, reservations. Everybody wants to make a reservation because they know it's going to be busy tonight.”

Jose Delatorre says they look forward to the rush every year because they get to introduce people to authentic Mexican flavors, made by recipes that have been passed along through generations.

"We come from Guadalajara, and that's our food," said Jose, also known as 'Pepe'. "But we also have some recipes from Puebla. We have the Chile Nogara is one of our signatures items." Although Cinco de Mayo is an isn’t traditionally celebrated widely across Mexico, many owners say they’re happy to use the day to educate customers on Mexican culture and traditions.

"As Mexicans, we must take that upon ourselves to have the opportunity to show Americans that Mexico has a lot of great things," said Molina. "Great culture, great food.”

Another local group agrees. Escaramuzas Charras, an all-female equestrian group also spent the morning with seniors at the Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living Center in La Quinta. The group treated seniors to special traditional Mexican dances like Foclorico. They also performed a synchronized equestrian routine, sharing their rich traditions, while also providing some relief and company to folks living at the home.
And over in Coachella, Absolute Dollar, a Latino-owned dollar store, hosted a Cinco de Mayo party and giveaway for its customers.

"Today we’re giving out free tacos to the first 200 people," said Gladys, the store's general manager. "We're also raffling off a Stanley cup, a small grill, and a cleaning basket.” In addition to the free tacos was drinks, music and fun for the entire family.
Absolute Dollar is also having a fundraiser in partnership with the Coachella Valley Youth Soccer Academy on May 18th. The entire store will be 10% off and they will be raffling off a 55 inch TV to customers. All of the proceeds will go to a local food bank.

All of the business owners that News Channel Three spoke with say they are proud represent the Latino community, and that they get to share it by celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the Coachella Valley.

"Cinco de Mayo is for everybody," said Molina. "All Americans. It gives them the opportunity to learn a little bit more of what Mexico is all about. It's not just, you know, drinking and sombreros. It's deeper than that."

Several Cinco de Mayo celebrations are taking place across the Coachella Valley on Monday.

Here are some of the events that are happening:

• The healing power of animal therapy takes center stage this Cinco de Mayo at Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living located at 47805 Caleo Bay Drive in La Quinta, where seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia will experience the joy, stimulation and emotional connection that only animals and community can bring. Residents and guests of Caleo Bay will be treated to a stunning and culturally rich performance by the Escaramuzas Charras, a traditional all-female Mexican equestrian team that is part of Mexico’s national sport. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire, the riders will perform synchronized, high-speed routines that are as emotionally moving as they are visually breathtaking. This celebration goes deeper than spectacle because it’s rooted in care and connection. The event offers a unique therapeutic experience. Animal-assisted activities, particularly involving horses, have been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and promote memory recall, offering a powerful emotional boost to both residents and their loved ones. In addition to the special performance, guests will be treated to a wonderful Cinco de Mayo fiesta spread complete with Esquites (corn in a cup), Jarritos (non-alcoholic drinks), ice cream Mexican Paletas, and a Churros Bar.

• Absolute Dollar, your local family-owned discount store in the Coachella Valley, will be hosting a Block Party on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at 50249 Harrison St. Coachella, CA. There will be free tacos, refreshing drinks, fun, music, and community vibes

News Channel 3's Tori King will be speaking with businesses about how Cinco De Mayo can bring an economic boost to Latino owned businesses.