The ninth edition of "San Mateo Carnavalero" was held in South Philly as dozens of people joined the Mexican tradition that  commemorates the Battle of Puebla.

Although for the vast majority of Americans, “Cinco de Mayo” is synonymous with margaritas and happy hours, the carnival of "San Mateo Carnavalero" enacts the true meaning of this Mexican historical commemoration.

The Battle of Puebla took place on May 5, 1862. In it, the Mexican army won a heroic victory over the invading French army. During the carnival, this clash is depicted with five elaborate costumes representing five different battalions: Zacapoaxtla, Zapador, Turkish, French (Suavo), and the  indigenous Serrano.

This year the carnival included the participation of mayoral candidate Nelson Diaz and City Council candidate Tom Wyatt. Both took the stage to address the Mexican community and reminded them to vote on May 19.

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