OGDEN -- A number of Cinco de Mayo celebrations will recognize Latino heritage throughout the state.
The Weber County Library has held a Cinco de Mayo event for many years, and this is the second year the library is having a program at two branches, the Main Library branch, 2464 Jefferson Ave. in Ogden at 6:30 p.m. Thursday and at the Pleasant Valley Branch, 5568 S. Adams Ave. in South Ogden at 4 p.m. Saturday.
"It is for the whole family," organizer Carlos Camacho said. "It is a cultural event."
Along with refreshments and arts and crafts for the children, the event will include a presentation of different dances from Mexico by Utah-based Mexican folkloric dance company Tutulli, which will perform on both dates.
The event provides a way to recognize the Latino community and celebrate those of Mexican heritage living in the United States.
"A large percentage of the Hispanic community that lives in Utah is Mexican," Camacho said, but the library's event is not just limited to people of Mexican descent: "It's a celebration that celebrates the Latino community."
Members of the community at large get an opportunity to familiarize themselves with their Latino neighbors and their culture.
"It is important for people to learn what this community is accomplishing," Camacho said.
Cinco de Mayo marks an important military victory in Mexico, when an ill-equipped Mexican fighting force made up of mostly peasants defeated the French army in 1862. However, it is not a major holiday in Mexico.
"Although it was a great battle," said Camacho, who is a native of Mexico, "I don't know why it is commemorated so much here in the United States."
All ages are welcome. If more information is needed, call 801-337-2632.
Along with the events in Ogden, other celebrations will take place across the Wasatch Front.
The Marshall White Center, 222 28th St. in Ogden, will hold its annual Cinco de Mayo event from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday.
The event will include a car show, music, dancers and center demonstrations and activities for the kids. Food will be provided by Javier's Mexican Restaurant.
"We are all about diversity and celebrating all of the culture here," Events Coordinator Jessica Whetton said. "We definetly have a strong number of Hispanics that use the facility."
Radio station U92 is sponsoring a Cinco de Mayo Car Show and Concert from noon to 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Gallivan Center, 239 S. Main St., Salt Lake City. The show includes musical guests Baby Bash, Dev and the Cataracs, Play N Skillz, Ty$ and rap legends Cypress Hill. Admission is $25 a person.
The Spanish-language television station Telemundo has been a staple of the Cinco de Mayo festivities. This year its celebration will start at 11 a.m. Saturday at Centennial Park, 5415 W. 3100 South, West Valley City.
Perhaps the oldest continuous celebration in the state takes place in Midvale. The 24th annual Midvale Cinco de Mayo celebration starts at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Midvale City Park, 7500 S. 445 West.
The event starts with a parade and a variety of entertainment throughout the day, including Mariachi Sol De Jalisco, Latin Dance Heritage, Guyz N Dollz Performing Arts Group and featured artists Los Reyes De La Cumbia.
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