Looking for something new to try to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Look no further than Portland’s 39^th annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, happening May 1^st through 5^th at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Known as the largest multicultural festival in Oregon, the event is presented by the Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association (PGSCA), a nonprofit organization that's been building ties between Portland and Guadalajara since 1983.

Featuring a wide variety of activities and entertainment, with more than 40 food vendors with authentic Mexican and regional specialties, there’s something for everyone here.

"Portland's Cinco de Mayo Fiesta isn't just one of the biggest events on the Willamette in May — it's genuinely one of the most culturally rich weekends you'll find anywhere in the Pacific Northwest,” said Brandon Treadway, producer at Treadway Events. “First-timers always tell us they had no idea how much the fiesta packed in."

Experiences You Won’t Want to Miss

For festival goers of all ages, there’s so much to see and do. High-flying masked luchadores during Lucha Libre Wrestling on Saturday and Sunday, with match times varying from 12pm–6pm, is a family-friendly crowd favorite event. Or visit the Low Rider Car Show on Friday, the Youth Boxing Tournament on Saturday and Sunday, or hop on some rides at the Carnival all week.  

For art enthusiasts, watch a Live Mural Painting, where artists create large-scale murals together reflecting the vibrant culture of Guadalajara and Portland. And for the 21 and over crowd, take part in the Cuervo Premier Tequila Tasting Experience.

For music lovers, the Mariachi Ciudad de Guadalajara group is not to be missed and for those passionate about dance, be mesmerized by the Ballet Folklorico Mexico En La Sangre, a local troupe with stomping footwork, spinning dresses, and costumes representing different regions of Mexico. See the entire activity and entertainment lineup schedule here.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

Come hungry, because at the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, there is no shortage of mouthwatering eats available.

"The food alone is worth the trip,” shared Treadway.

Whether you’re looking for fresh-made churros, loaded asada fries, homemade tamales, or roasted corn elotes and esquites, festival goers can choose from vendors like Rosas Churros, Birrieria PDX, Taqueria Los Alambres, La Chorrasca, El Camarón, and many others. Thirsty? Wash your goodies down with a variety of horchatas, tejuínos, and aguas frescas – all must-tries. And don’t miss the Michelada bar, which has become an annual favorite.

Plan Your Adventure

There’s plenty of fun waiting to be had at this year’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. Arrive early and stay late! Ride TriMet or use Uber/Lyft to avoid parking hassles and if you want to extend your stay, book a room at one of the area’s featured hotel partners at a special discount.

Ready to plan your Cinco de Mayo adventure? Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a weekend pass, or a full fiesta pass to spread out your experience, skip the box office line and save money by buying your tickets online in advance here.