How Scottsdale Locals Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo may commemorate a historic battle in Mexico, but in Scottsdale, it’s a celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. Locals and visitors alike enjoy vibrant festivities ranging from rooftop parties and tequila tastings to live music and authentic dining experiences. Whether you're planning a family-friendly day or looking to join the nightlife scene, the city’s Cinco de Mayo celebrations offer something for everyone.

Here’s how Scottsdale celebrates—and why this holiday has become one of the city’s most anticipated springtime events.

Old Town Scottsdale is the city’s go-to destination for Cinco de Mayo energy. Lively patios, festive decorations, and themed specials are common throughout the district’s bars and restaurants. Spots like Barrio Queen, The Mission, and Diego Pops typically offer expanded menus featuring street tacos, tequila flights, and live mariachi performances or DJs.

One of the area’s most popular annual events is the Scottsdale Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl, which draws hundreds of attendees each year. Participants receive exclusive drink specials, party favors, and access to participating venues across the Entertainment District. It’s one of the most dynamic Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Scottsdale and a perfect fit for those looking to enjoy Scottsdale’s nightlife in a festive, social atmosphere.

Many of Scottsdale’s best restaurants embrace the holiday with festive flair. Whether it’s an upscale evening out or casual tacos with friends, there’s no shortage of excellent dining options.

Favorites like Los Olivos Mexican Patio, Toca Madera, and Casa Amigos often feature Cinco de Mayo specials, including prix-fixe menus, margarita flights, and themed desserts. In North Scottsdale, Blanco Cocina + Cantina and Jalapeno Inferno are known for their lively patios, great happy hour deals, and holiday décor.

Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially on the holiday itself, as restaurants tend to fill quickly.

Scottsdale’s luxury hotels often host their own Cinco de Mayo events, offering everything from rooftop DJ sets to exclusive poolside parties. Resorts such as Hotel Valley Ho, The W Scottsdale, and the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia have ticketed events with live music, curated cocktail menus, and themed décor.

These events are particularly popular among locals and out-of-town visitors seeking a stylish, festive way to celebrate. Many include tequila tastings, food stations, and cabana rentals—bringing the energy of a holiday weekend to a resort atmosphere.

For those interested in a more curated experience, Scottsdale offers several ways to explore the rich flavors behind the holiday. Restaurants and bars such as The Beverly on Main and The Montauk occasionally host tequila and mezcal tastings, often led by brand ambassadors or local mixologists.

Additionally, shops like Total Wine & More frequently offer educational sessions or small-group tasting events leading up to Cinco de Mayo. These experiences are ideal for those who want to skip the party scene but still enjoy an authentic and engaging way to celebrate.

Not every celebration needs to happen out on the town. Scottsdale families often enjoy Cinco de Mayo with backyard gatherings, taco bars, or piñata games for kids. Local grocery stores and markets usually carry themed décor, prepared foods, and traditional ingredients, making at-home celebrations easy and fun.

Community centers and libraries also offer cultural programming, including bilingual storytimes or crafts inspired by Mexican traditions. While these smaller events vary by year, they reflect the city’s growing appreciation for culturally inclusive celebrations.

For those who love celebrating through food and learning something new in the process, the Classic Cooking Academy in North Scottsdale offers a special way to honor the holiday. Their Sunday Supper series will feature a Cinco de Mayo–inspired menu, giving participants a hands-on culinary experience that highlights regional flavors in a relaxed, social setting.

Guests will learn to prepare and enjoy a thoughtful meal that includes:

• Baja street tacos with spicy grilled shrimp and grilled skirt steak
• Avocado cabbage slaw, crema, and corn tortillas
• Fresh pico de gallo and roasted tomatillo salsa
• Mexican street corn and cilantro lime rice
• Baked churros with Mexican chocolate dipping sauce

This event offers an engaging alternative to the typical restaurant celebration. Perfect for couples, food lovers, or anyone looking to connect with Scottsdale’s culinary scene, it’s a great example of how Cinco de Mayo celebrations can be equal parts delicious and educational.

Scottsdale’s mix of culinary excellence, resort-style living, and cultural appreciation makes it an ideal city to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Locals embrace the day not only for its festive energy but also for its connection to Mexican heritage—a culture that’s deeply rooted in Arizona’s history.

With so many ways to participate—whether through food, music, or social events—Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Scottsdale offer variety, accessibility, and entertainment for every lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a quiet dinner with family or a full day of downtown activities, the holiday brings the city to life in a uniquely Scottsdale way.

Cinco de Mayo is just one example of how Scottsdale combines culture, community, and celebration in a way few places can. If you're thinking about making Scottsdale home—or exploring new neighborhoods in the area—contact the Matheson Real Estate Team for expert local guidance. From walkable districts near Old Town to quiet retreats with resort-style amenities, they’ll help you find the property that fits your lifestyle in a city that celebrates year-round.