Crowds were able to enjoy authentic Mexican foods, browse and purchase handmade items from Mexican artisans (making it a good time for artists to invest in business card printing, to distribute their names and contact information to the festival attendees), and enjoy events like ‘Lucha Libre’ wrestlers.
The event had plenty in store for lovers of music as well, with string and brass instruments played by Mariachi Corona Continental, who were more than happy to take requests from the audience.
The ceremony also included a naturalization ceremony in which Portland’s Mayor welcomed the city’s newest citizens. According to the 2010 Census, Oregon’s Hispanic population has grown at five times the rate of other demographics in the state.
Since 1983, the city has taken the annual Mexican-themed celebration very seriously, honoring the heritage of the state. Back in colonial America, Oregon bordered on Mexico, and in some areas, Spanish was spoken before English.
Organizers of the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta say that the event has unified city residents. Before it kicked off, one of the organizers, Shaun Garcia, said:
“Although Cinco de Mayo represents a Mexican event in history, the Latino community at large has embraced this celebration.”