Cinco de Mayo is a widely celebrated holiday in the United States, often associated with indulging in tequila shots and margaritas. However, for those who are sober, the holiday can present a unique challenge. It is easy to feel left out or overwhelmed by the party atmosphere when everyone around you is drinking. But just because you choose not to drink does not mean you cannot celebrate this day in a fun and meaningful way. Faith in Recovery is sharing some enjoyable ways to celebrate a sober Cinco de Mayo that can help you feel more connected to the holiday's history and culture.
Cinco de Mayo, which literally translates to "the fifth of May" in Spanish, commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.1 The battle was fought in the city of Puebla, located in central Mexico, and was a significant moment in Mexican history. The French, under the leadership of Napoleon III, were trying to establish a colonial empire in Mexico and had been successful in several battles before their defeat in Puebla.1 Although the Mexican victory was a symbolic one and did not ultimately stop the French from occupying Mexico, it was a morale boost for the Mexican army and people and helped inspire resistance against the French occupation.1
While Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday, some are surprised to learn it is celebrated more widely in the United States than in Mexico itself. This can be attributed to the influence of Mexican American communities in the US, who began celebrating the holiday in the late 19th century as a way of maintaining their cultural heritage. Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated with parades, festivals, and parties across the United States and has become a symbol of Mexican American pride and heritage. Many of these celebrations involve a heavy amount of drinking, which makes it hard for some to feel capable of partaking.
For individuals in recovery from alcoholism, celebrating Cinco de Mayo sober can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many ways to celebrate this holiday without alcohol, such as:
As you can see, a sober Cinco de Mayo has all the potential to be a day worth remembering. For those who are interested in achieving their own sobriety, many Banyan locations offer Christ-centered addiction treatment for alcoholism.
Our Christian-based rehab is equipped with various programs, including medical detox and residential treatment options, that provide an environment that is supportive of spiritual and personal growth. There is a unique sense of fulfillment that comes with faith-based addiction recovery, allowing patients to strengthen their own relationships with God while pursuing treatment.
To learn how these programs can help you or a loved one achieve sobriety, call us today at 888-280-4763.
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