April with all its showers is gone, and May with her flowers is here, together with a slew of holidays to celebrate! May is certainly a busy month… we’ve got Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Cinco de Mayo, and a smattering of other lesser-known holidays.

First, on the calendar is Cinco de Mayo.  How much do you actually know about Cinco de Mayo?  It’s a Mexican holiday full of rich history and Mexican pride. This day commemorates the Mexican Army’s astonishing triumph over the French that took place on May 5, 1862. The Mexican Army was greatly outnumbered by the French, who had also not lost a battle in over fifty years!

In hopes of slowing the French’s advancement toward Mexico City, General Ignacio Zaragoza and his troops attacked the French Army in the small village of Puebla. This attack resulted in the unlikely victory for the Mexican Army. On September 16, 1862, President Juarez declared that the date of the Battle of Puebla would be made an annual holiday. Hence, Cinco de Mayo became a popular holiday in Mexico and in areas where there is a large Mexican population.

Cinco de Mayo is the perfect opportunity to host a lively party in your backyard. So, if you’re planning a celebration, how about a tea-based cocktail to honor the day, enhancing the festive occasion!  

Earl Grey Glory Cocktail

Ingredients:

2 cups Earl Grey Tea

½ cup Simple syrup

6 tbsp Fresh lemon juice

¼ cup Rum

Directions:

In a pitcher, stir all ingredients together.

Pour over large ice cubes in cocktail glasses.

Garnish with lemon curl.