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Best Cinco De Mayo Fiestas In L.A. For Kids

para los ninos header
(credit: Para Los Ninos)

Cinco de Mayo spent south of the border seems ideal for kids to celebrate, but visiting Mexico isn't necessary when you live in or near Los Angeles. Instead, revel during this traditional holiday commemorating the anniversary of the modestly armed Mexican military's 1862 victory in Puebla, Mexico over the mighty French forces during the Franco-Mexican War. These days, this annual fete is meant for mariachi madness, lots of piñata action, gobs of tasty treats and a slew of fun-filled festivals sure to engage the entire family. Enticed? Then go grab your children to partake of the pleasures of May 5, SoCal style.

fiesta broadway
(Credit: Fiesta Broadway)

Fiesta Broadway
N. Broadway & W. 1st St
Los Angeles, CA
(310) 914-0015
www.allaccess.la/fiesta-broadway
Date: April 30, 2017

This event celebrates its 28th year in Los Angeles, taking place along Broadway from 4th Street, at the southend, to Grand Park, which spreads on both sides between First and Temple. Tabbed as the "The Super Bowl of Festivals," Fiesta Broadway is coordinated yearly by All Access Entertainment and is the largest Cinco de Mayo festival in the country. The event typically draws some 300,000 plus people who delight in performances by well-known Latin American artists and authentic food from local-area vendors. Carnival-style games and rides are also part of the day. While the event is free, there are paid parking lots and structures outside the street closure area for vehicles.

Angelenos Celebrate Cinco De Mayo
(credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Cinco de Mayo Olvera Street Festival
845 North Alameda Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
www.elpueblo.lacity.org
Dates: April 30, 2017 - May 1, 2017

Kids, get ready to punch at a bunch of prize-filled pinatas on Olvera Street during a two-day celebration at the Paseo de la Plaza. This storied town square, located in downtown Los Angeles, is devoted to all things Mexico every day but particularly during Cinco de Mayo weekend. The entire area becomes a full-on fiesta with street performers, all sorts of Mexican food, stalls selling fun stuff made south of the border and a variety of musical acts that create a memorable weekend for the whole family.

el coyote
(credit: El Coyote)

El Coyote Cinco de Mayo
El Coyote Mexican Cafe
7312 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 939-2255
www.elcoyotecafe.com

Treat the kids to virgin margaritas for washing down yummy Mexican fare in the exuberant environment that is El Coyote, Hollywood's oldest family restaurant of this sort dating back to 1931. An uplifting mood definitely fits the order of the day at this festive eatery as joyous servers wearing traditional full-skirted dresses bring out heaps upon heaps of traditional treats. Meanwhile, a mariachi band plays in the background on May 5, putting everyone in the spirit. While there, be sure to try the special El Coyote pizza, made with beans and ranchero salsa -- sort of like nachos but so much better.

Related: Best Fajitas In Los Angeles

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