by T.C. Sert

Created on: March 01, 2010

Cinco de Mayo is a fun holiday celebrated in Mexico for the defeat of the French on May 5th in 1862. Many people like to get together to celebrate for this holiday by gathering for fiestas, barbecues, and dancing to live music and playing games. Even though people like to go out of their way to enjoy the celebration, Cinco de Mayo doesn't have to break your wallet. There are several ways that anyone can celebrate Cinco de Mayo on a budget and still have a fantastic time.

Find A Free To Enter Festival

There are many festivals being held around this time, and it shouldn't be difficult to find one that doesn't require an entry fee. Simply going to enjoy the live music, and dancing is a great way to spend the day. Packing some snacks in advance can keep hunger at bay, and allow you to save your money to spend on special Mexican cuisine, rather than extra filler foods. This also will free up some of your budget to put towards any souvenirs you may want to buy, or games you may want to play.

Hold a Potluck

If you want to hold a gathering, or a barbecue then hold a potluck. Have all of the guests cook a Mexican dish and bring it along. Try and find out what everyone wants to bring so there isn't too much of the same dishes. If guests are also on a budget, then ask them if they could possibly bring some music, or make paper decorations instead.

Make Decorations

Instead of buying decorations, only buy the materials that are required to make them. Decorating a party area with brightly colored paper flowers, and paper streamers are great simple accents. Use some colorful confetti to sprinkle on tables covered in brightly covered table cloths.

Clothing

If you are wanting to buy new attire to dress up for Cinco de Mayo then try finding out if you have a local second hand store. Investing in new clothes isn't necessary if you are planning to only wear the outfit once. Women can find nice bright dresses, or long flowing skirts. Sometimes there may even be come costume attire available. If you have experience sewing or know someone that does, then ask them if they wouldn't mind making a costume for you. Materials can be very cheap, and creating bright new attire for the occasion could end up saving you quite a bit of money, compared to if you bought something new.

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday meant for enjoying the things that come free in life, which are friends, music, games, and dancing.

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