Portland’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Returns With Expanded Celebrations

Portland, Oregon — Portland’s Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta will return this year with an expanded schedule, featuring four full days of entertainment and cultural festivities. The event, organized by the Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association, will take place at Tom McCall Waterfront Park from May 2 to May 5.

This year’s fiesta promises to offer a lively atmosphere for all ages, showcasing performances, traditional foods, and vibrant cultural displays. The festival hours are from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from May 2 to May 4, and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on May 5. Anthony Veliz, a spokesperson for the event, highlighted that the extra day aims to support local businesses that contribute to the festival.

The fiesta will also feature the return of Lucha Libre wrestling for the first time in years, with matches running from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Boxing matches will also be part of the exciting entertainment lineup throughout the weekend. “Every day, we try to change it up a little bit so people can return,” Veliz said.

The event includes a vendor market with 95% local businesses, many of which are from Oregon, while some vendors are coming from Guadalajara, Mexico, Portland’s sister city. “By attending the event, people will get to help support local Latino communities and other small businesses,” said Cindy Avila, president of the Portland Sister City Association.

Attendance at the festival often reaches over 50,000 in years with favorable weather. Veliz expressed hope for a dry weekend this year after experiencing heavy rain during last year’s event. “But people came out and supported this event, and I think they really love it,” he said.

Tickets are available for purchase online in advance for the best deal. For those planning to attend, the fiesta is set to feature entertainment, local food, and cultural experiences over the four days at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, located at 98 S.W. Naito Parkway.