If you're a fan of Mexican food and drinks, brace yourselves because Cinco de Mayo is approaching! Fun fact: this holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over invading French forces at the Battle of Puebla that took place on May 5, 1862. Looking for the best spot to grab a margarita in Wilmington and toast to Cinco de Mayo? We've got you covered with our list of places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Wilmington.

Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl

Presented by Lunazul Tequila and Dos Equis Beer, this scavenger hunt-style bar crawl is the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo! Grab your friends, make a team, and venture around Downtown Wilmington to complete tasks at participating bars in the area. There will be gifts and prizes as well with the grand prize being a trip to Mexico valued at $800! Registration begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Rebellion, downtown's newest restaurant and bar.Tickets are priced at $5, and there will be drink specials at participating bars along the way. Pre-register online through Eventbrite or buy tickets at the registration table the day of. 

K-38 Oleander

Enjoy Baja-Mexico-infused cuisine while sipping on some margaritas at K-38! They use chilies and spices straight from Mexico and the Southwest so you can get authentic flavors without leaving Wilmington. Don't miss their famous "tacos in a blanket," which are hard shell tacos wrapped in grilled flour tortillas! 

La Costa Mexican Restaurant

With three locations in Wilmington, La Costa is your go-to Cinco de Mayo spot no matter where you are in town! Check out their restaurants Downtown on Oleander Drive or in Porters Neck. They have been a Wilmington staple for over 15 years and serve up traditional Mexican dishes and drinks.

San Felipe Mexican Restaurant

Authentic Mexican entrees like enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos are served up alongside unique cocktails at San Felipe's. A local favorite is the Blue Ocean Margarita, which combines house tequila, blue curacao, pineapple juice, and San Felipe's house-made margarita mix. Feel like celebrating Cinco de Mayo from the comforts of home? They also offer a full catering service so you can throw your own fiesta!

El Arriero Taquería

Nothing says Cinco de Mayo quite like tacos. El Arriero's are made with handmade tortillas and can be topped off with one of 12 different salsas at their salsa bar! This is a can't-miss destination for all you taco lovers out there. Grab a bite, a margarita or two, and kick back with your friends at this authentic taqueria!

El Cerro Grande

With two locations on South College Road and a third on Military Cutoff Road, El Cerro Grande is sure to bring the Cinco de Mayo party to town. From nachos to tacos to quesadillas, there's something for every Mexican food lover here. They also have extensive vegetarian options and drink choices including margaritas, tequilas, wine, beer, and signature cocktails! Pro tip: their classic margaritas can be ordered by the pitcher to keep the party going all night long!

Gravity Records

Check out Gravity Records' Cinco de Mayo party from noon to 6 p.m.! This free celebration will include music, food, and of course, beer! Enjoy live music from local bands while you browse their large selection of vinyl, CDs, and videos.

Cinco de Mayo only comes once a year, but there's always unique Wilmington bars and delicious restaurants in Wilmington to check out. Find them all by registering on on 910area, your free guide to the Wilmington and Fayetteville area.

 

Cover photo courtesy of Adobe Stock Images