10 May Richmond Celebrates Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Pride With 23rd Street Festival

Thousands of people packed 23rd Street for Richmond’s Cinco de Mayo celebration. (Photo by Gabino Arredondo)

By Ana Tellez-Witrago

Colorful banners, lively music, and joyful cheers streamed down 23rd Street in Richmond as the community came together to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a festival that stretched across 14 blocks. Organized by the corridor’s merchants’ association and community foundation, the annual event showcases the rich cultural heritage of the local Mexican American community while emphasizing the importance of unity and pride.

Heavy rain forced the rescheduling of the parade originally set for Saturday to September, but with clear skies, the Sunday festival drew a robust crowd. For many residents, Cinco de Mayo holds significant cultural and historical importance and serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of the Mexican people in the face of adversity. While the holiday formally commemorates the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, in the United States, it has evolved into a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride.

>>>Read: My Colorful First Trip to Mexico Felt Like Falling in Love

Families strolled along 23rd Street, waving flags and patronizing various community services, businesses and food stands. Local businesses along 23rd also got into the festivities, storefronts displaying Mexican flags and themed adornments.

Marisol Cantú, a longtime Richmond resident, underscored the event’s importance.

“This event is essential for all members of our community to come together to celebrate life and Latino culture,” said Cantú. “We are a significant … population in our city, and it’s crucial for us to be represented. This celebration offers an incredible opportunity for us to unite and uplift one another.”

Attendees emphasized the event’s role in fostering unity and solidarity within the community.

“I love seeing people from all walks of life enjoy this festivity, which has been a tradition for several years,” said Rashad Osborn, a Richmond resident and city employee.

For local businesses, the Cinco de Mayo celebration provided an opportunity to showcase their products and services to a diverse audience. Food vendors offered traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, fresh fruit with chile and lime, and churros.

There was a bit of controversy among the food vendors, however. Those who were permitted to do business at the festival said unpermitted hot dog vendors undercut their sales. When police would tell those without permits to leave, they would reportedly just set up shop somewhere else.

>>>Read: Richmond Business Owners Want Sidewalk Vendors Off 23rd Street

Also selling were artisans displaying their handcrafted goods. New businesses capitalized on the occasion to connect with potential customers.

“This is our second year attending as vendors, and we receive tremendous support from our existing customers while gaining new ones,” said Jessica Moreno, mother of the owner of San Pablo’s Mexilashbar. Moreno has attended this event since childhood and was now there showcasing the small business’ products.

>>>Read: Dancing to Preserve Tradition: Pittsburg Youth Uphold Folklórico Legacy

The festival also featured traditional music and dance performers, including performances  by Rocia “La Dama de la Cumbia” y Su Sonora from Los Angeles and Richmond band Estrellas de la Bahía. For residents of Richmond, San Pablo and neighboring cities, the Cinco de Mayo event symbolizes more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to the strength of their community and the enduring spirit of unity.

“It is cool to see members of our community dabble in Latino culture and having fun — enjoying good food, vibes, and dancing,” said Jocelyn Hernandez.