Twenty-one years. That’s how long the Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival has brought traditional music, food and drinks, and activities to one central location, and this year’s is bigger and better than ever.
After the success of last year, the festival will expand two more blocks, spanning across Van Buren Street between Central Avenue and Fifth Street (200 E Van Buren St.).
The fiesta begins Saturday, May 3 from 2 p.m. to midnight and continues into Sunday, May 4 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
General admission is just $5 a ticket, but if you want a break from the crowds and to receive some awesome perks–like free food, drinks, and meet-and-greets with bands–then we suggest grabbing an all-access VIP pass.
And don’t forget to bring the little ones along! Admission is free for children 12 and under, with carnival rides and games to keep them preoccupied while you watch luche libre matches and main stage performances.
After you’ve had your fair share of tacos and kettle corn, make sure to check out the main stage for performances from a Grammy Award winning line-up featuring Los Lobos, Ozomatli, Los Lonely Boys and El Chicano, plus the Black Bottom Lighters who just happen to be competing in this year’s Hard Rock Rising Global Battle of the Bands.
Not persuaded yet? Check out everything you can expect at the festival:

– Live Music
– Lucha Libre
– Ballet Folklorico
– USA Olympic-Style Boxing Tournament
– Family Carnival Rides & Games
– Traditional Food & Drinks
– Prizes, Giveaways and More
*Photo from Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival website