Today kicks off Mexican Week in the greater Philadelphia area, sponsored by the Consulmex Filadelfia (Mexican consulate) and the Mexican Cultural Center of Philadelphia. Centered around celebrations for Cinco de Mayo, which marks the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on that date in 1862, the week is overall a way to highlight Mexican-American culture. The agenda for the week offers a vast array of cultural events throughout the city and the greater Philadelphia area, celebrating Mexican culture and the achievements of Mexicans throughout the city, country, and world. 

So whether you’re hoping to look at traditional to avant-garde Mexican artwork, eat an authentic street taco, or jam out to the tunes of Mexican pop artist Natalia Lafourcade (as this writer would certainly like to), the Mexican Cultural Week agenda has it covered. Check out events and descriptions below, courtesy of the Mexican Cultural Center:

Flag Raising Ceremony Philadelphia City Hall, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm

Consul of Mexico Alicia Kerber will be joined by Mayor Kenney, other officials and prominent dignitaries at the raising of the Mexican flag.

“Puebla 7: Tradition to Avant-Garde” Philadelphia City Hall, City Hall Office Hours

“Puebla 7: Tradition to Avant-Garde” art exhibit is on display, showcasing Mexican artwork on the first floor of Philadelphia City Hall through May 31.

Sexual Diversity Short Film Screenings Lightbox Film Center at International House Philadelphia, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.  

The II Sexual Diversity Program of the Morelia International Film Festival will screen Mexican short films that focus on sexual identity and diversity, followed by a Q&A session.

Downtown Cinco de Mayo Festival Market Street, Wilmington, DE, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

The festival will include a fashion show of traditional Mexican garments, a performance by renowned Mexican singer Hugo Cesar, and, last but not least, some tasty Mexican dishes.

5 de mayo Block Party El Rey, Philadelphia, 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

The Cinco de Mayo Block Party will feature authentic street tacos, food, music, celebration, and more. In the first three hours of the celebration there will be educational games and prizes for children provided. 

`Freedom of Movement` The Barnes Foundation, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Art making stations, bilingual storytelling and a special performance of Nuevo Mexico dance group, as part of PECO’s Free First Sunday Program at The Barnes Foundation.

Festival Cinco de Mayo Downtown Kennet Square, PA, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

A Cinco de Mayo Festival hosted by Casa Guanajuato, in the heart of Kennett Square, presenting a program full of activities to enjoy with family and friends.

Natalia Lafourcade concert Theatre of the Living Arts, 8:00 p.m.

The renowned Grammy award-winning Mexican singer Natalia Lafourcade will perform in Philadelphia, accompanied by the talented musician Augusto Bracho. 

Get a little taste of Natalia's music by watching her NPR Tiny Desk Concert here, or checking out the music video for one of her most popular songs: