Houston is gearing up for Cinco de Mayo with numerous venues offering festivities, food, and drink specials. Celebrations include mariachi music, specialty cocktails, and themed events across the city.

What began as a national holiday in Mexico to celebrate the anniversary of the nation’s military victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, has evolved into a cultural celebration recognized throughout North America.

Cinco de Mayo falls on a Monday this year, but Houston restaurants and bars are kicking off the festivities early with weekend-long celebrations that continue through the holiday. Commemorating Mexico's victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862,