Cinco de Mayo Festival

2025 marks the 18th year of Charleston’s Cinco de Mayo Festival. 

Cinco de Mayo has become a giant party of Latin culture, but its roots commemorate Mexico’s victory over France in 1862’s Battle of Puebla.

The venue for the festival is the Charleston Harbor Cruise Terminal, located at 196 Concord Street in downtown Charleston.   Since the event is primarily indoors, it’s rain or shine.  If the weather is nice, the party will extend out onto the pier overlooking the water.

There will be lots of dance exhibitions, great live music, food from different Latin countries and libations. 

Exact date and details for 2025 haven't been announced yet, so check back closer to the event.  Here's what was on tap in 2024:

• Live Music:  Los X Adolecentes (Salsa), DJ Luigi Latin Groove of Radio & 993 The Box Charleston + DJ Leo. DJ Ish of Aura Latin Club;
• Dance Exhibitions
• Authentic Food...
• Mexico: Cachitas Kitchen
• Venezuela: Rikiquito
• Ecuador: La Madrina
• Colombia: Antojos Latinos
• Mexico: El Fogon
• Gauchos: Uruguay
• Desserts: Las Aguas Charleston - Patagonian Queen - Las Delicias de Gloria
• Drinks by: Jose Cuervo, Estrella Jalisco, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra

PLEASE NOTE: *Performances will be held rain or shine under the roof of the terminal

The festival lasts from 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10, with food and drinks purchased separately as you go.  Proceeds support the Charleston Animal Society and the good work they do.

Feel free to bring chairs or blankets, but not tents or coolers.  Carpooling or Uber/Lyft is encouraged since onsite parking is limited.