Mexican Independence Day, the most important national holiday in Mexico, is celebrated on September 16th.
But up here in El Norte, May 5th is a day for margaritas, beer, tacos, mariachi music, dancing and whatever else comes with it. In a tradition which began decades ago holidays frequently are celebrated on the nearest weekend to the actual date. Such was the case Saturday in Prescott.
A good sized crowd gathered on the Courthouse Square, in part to watch these guys.
A classic mariachi band in their traditional costumes.
This was one of several young ninas in colorful costumes who danced on the plaza to the lively music.
A pretty senorita enjoyed the music from the sidelines.
There was a beer garden and a young man grilling up some taco fixings.
Ah, the finished products. Corn tortillas, carne asada, frijoles, avocados, cotija cheese. Yummy!
There was also a busy face painter.
I wonder how long that brown-eyed beauty waited before she had the paint washed off!
O.K. I know you've been waiting for this so . . . strike up the band.
Viva Mexico! Happy Cinco de Mayo!