Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, marks Mexico's victory over France in 1862. In the U.S., it’s a festive celebration of Mexican culture.

Ahead of the official day of Cinco de Mayo, hundreds of people headed to Old Town over the weekend to celebrate at Fiesta de Reyes held at the State Park. This year, the group Ballet Folklorico Real de San Diego took to the stage to perform traditional Mexican dances. Each dancer featured a dress honoring the Mexican state of Jalisco.

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.