Cinco de Mayo is known throughout the United States as an excuse to party. While Mexico commemorates the holiday with parades and battle reenactments, in the U.S., the holiday is largely a popular celebration of Mexican-American culture. And Las Vegas is more than happy to join the celebration with restaurants, parties, and tequila bars up and down the Strip. Expect the festivities to be bigger than ever in 2024 with lots of Mexican-themed bars, restaurants, and specials to check out. Cinco de Mayo falls on a Sunday this year, offering the perfect excuse for a long, margarita-filled holiday weekend.
Casa Calavera
Casa Calavera at Virgin Hotels is one of the best places in Las Vegas for a mix of style, sizzle, and Mexican culture. The restaurant has a Day of the Dead theme, with skulls and murals featured throughout the dining room. Of course, there will also be plenty of tacos and tequila to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo. Casa Calavera’s happy hour runs from 3-5 p.m. on select days and includes $7 menu items, $20 beer buckets, and 50% off selected cocktails. They also host Taco Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m. and a live DJ Friday through Sunday.
China Poblano
A unique combination of flavors and cultures, China Poblano by José Andrés serves up a bold fusion of Mexican and Chinese cuisine–all in the same dining room. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with China Poblano’s festive La Hora Feliz Monday through Thursday from 4:30-6 p.m. for food and drink specials while watching the chefs prepare homemade tortillas and dim sum. While you’re there, be sure to try José’s favorite Salt Air Margarita and house specialties like queso fundido and fried wontons.
The Still
Hussong’s Cantina
The original Hussong’s Cantina in the Mexican town of Ensenada claims to be the birthplace of the margarita. But for those who can’t make it south of the border this Cinco de Mayo, there’s no better place than Hussong Cantina’s Las Vegas outpost to grab an authentic ice-cold margarita. In addition to the restaurant’s Baja-style menu, there are also plenty of eclectic margarita variations to choose from, including the Jalapeño Pineapple, the Raspberita, and, of course, the Original Margarita that started it all over 80 years ago. Be sure to sing along with Hussong’s rock-and-roll mariachi band while you’re there for a truly unforgettable Cinco de Mayo experience.
Señor Frog’s
Famous for Spring Break parties in Mexico and the Caribbean, Señor Frog’s celebrates a strong fiesta spirit at the Treasure Island casino in Las Vegas. Cinco de Mayo is the perfect time to check out the famed party spot, as there are always special events like dancing, entertainment, and beer-chugging contests. Be sure to ask for a seat on the outdoor deck overlooking the Strip to truly enjoy Señor Frog’s famous Mexican hospitality.
Cañonita
Located along the Grand Canal in the Venetian, Cañonita serves up authentic, house-made Mexican meals and cocktails with one-of-a-kind waterfront views. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a margarita and a meal at a canal-side table, or soak up the vibes in the newly renovated dining room. Heading to another fiesta? Then grab a taco and a cocktail to-go at the Street Taqueria while sightseeing along the Grand Canal. Whatever you choose, there’s always a reason to celebrate. This year, Cañonita also hosts a Cinco de Mayo party all weekend long, so be sure to reserve your table now.
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
There’s no better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than with the non-stop party atmosphere at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Featuring three levels of tiki bars, endless tropical drinks, live entertainment, and one-of-a-kind Caribbean vibes, Margaritaville is a Parrothead’s dream. Be sure to check out the centrally located Volcano Bar, named in honor of a tall “volcano” that erupts hourly, spilling margarita mix into two 300-gallon blenders.
Diablo’s Cantina
Party like you’re south of the border by celebrating Cinco de Mayo at Diablo’s Cantina. Located in The Mirage, the authentic bar and restaurant is the perfect place to party. Munch on housemade specialties like guacamole and enchiladas while sipping on the selection of premium tequilas, all while soaking up Diablo’s famous party vibes. And be sure to check out the cantina’s Cinco de Mayo celebration, which usually includes food and drink specials as well as live entertainment.
Lucky Day
Photo: Anthony MairThe best spot for agave spirits on Fremont Street is Lucky Day. The bar has an exceptional rotating collection of tequila and mezcal. Eight different flights give you plenty of opportunities to try unique small-batch selections. The space has lots of charm with an elaborate overhead light fixture that changes color throughout the evening. This Cinco de Mayo, munch on house-made tortilla chips, guacamole, and salsa with a seat on the patio overlooking the party crowds of Fremont East.
Cabo Wabo Cantina
Cabo Wabo has great Mexican food, a superb tequila collection, and a large outdoor patio overlooking the Strip at the Miracle Mile Shops. The restaurant is traditionally a busy spot for Cinco de Mayo and throws a fiesta all weekend long, so be sure to ask about the latest holiday specials. Of course, there will be plenty of Cabo Wabo tequila (made famous by Sammy Hagar), whether served straight as a shot or part of a Mexican-inspired cocktail.
Chayo
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