Cinco de Mayo in Kansas City
By Jared Campbell, Resident Engagement Project Manager at Downtown Council of Kansas City
On behalf of the Downtown Council, we hope you had a great Cinco de Mayo! As we continue to build off our Annual Luncheon theme of Connecting Communities, we wanted to highlight how in Downtown KC, this day is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of Mexican culture, especially on the Westside.
Local restaurants and cultural centers host events featuring traditional music, dance, and art, creating an immersive experience for all. The festivities reflect the deep-rooted Mexican heritage within the community, showcasing its contributions to the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
If you did not have an opportunity to visit the Guadalupe Center’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, put it on your calendar now for next year. It has become the signature event around the holiday. This year marked their 103rd celebration and has morphed into a multiday event the weekend before the holiday.
The culinary scene during Cinco de Mayo in Kansas City is a feast for the senses.
Authentic Mexican cuisine takes center stage, with restaurants featuring dishes like mole poblano, tacos al pastor, and elote. The aroma of freshly made tortillas and sizzling meats fills the air, inviting everyone to indulge. This celebration of food is a testament to the culinary traditions that Mexican immigrants have brought to Kansas City, enriching the city’s gastronomic offerings and providing a taste of Mexico right here in the Midwest.
My co-workers and I are partial to Los Tules for their menu, but there are so many options! Places such as Los Alamos Cocina and Yoli Tortilleria anchor 17th and Summit while there are almost too many options to name along Southwest Boulevard. While not on the Westside, Teocali is a hidden gem south of hospital hill that serves great food and offers outdoor dining. For an insider tip, consider them a go-to restaurant to get your Mexican food mix on Mondays when many other restaurants are closed.
Beyond the food and festivities, Cinco de Mayo in Kansas City is also a time for community and giving back. These celebrations bring together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and shared appreciation. By participating in these events, attendees can enjoy a day of cultural immersion while supporting the community and its vital initiatives. You don’t need to wait until next year’s Cinco de Mayo to enjoy the rich history and vibrant Mexican culture in Downtown KC.
Get out and explore all our neighborhoods have to offer by trying a new restaurant or supporting a local retailer. When we strengthen our neighborhoods, we strengthen all of Downtown Kansas City.
