Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on Catalina

Mexican and Spanish Influence on Catalina

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla — a moment of Mexican resilience that, while a relatively minor holiday in Mexico itself, has blossomed in California into a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Few places in the state feel that history more deeply than Catalina Island.

California was once Spanish territory, becoming a province of Mexico in 1820. In 1846, just four days before the United States invaded California, Mexican Governor Don Pío de Jesús Pico awarded Catalina Island to a private citizen as a land grant. The island was sold in 1850, two years after the Mexican Cession formally made California part of the U.S.

When William Wrigley Jr. purchased controlling interest in Catalina in 1919, he envisioned a resort destination steeped in California's Spanish and Mexican heritage. He modeled the El Paseo de El Encanto Marketplace after Olvera Street, Los Angeles' beloved Mexican marketplace, making the El Encanto building the showpiece of his vision for old California charm. Spanish tile still adorns buildings and fountains throughout Avalon today. Wrigley invited employees of Mexican descent to work on Catalina and greeted visitors arriving by steamship with the sounds of Mexican mariachi bands. Four generations later, that heritage remains very much alive on the island.

Cinco de Mayo Events and more

Kick off Cinco de Mayo at the Catalina Casino, where the City of Avalon hosts a festive afternoon of music, culture, and community. Doors open at 4 p.m. for a showcase featuring TK–5th grade students and local dance groups. All are welcome.

The celebration continues at the Catalina Island Museum for Art & History with a free Family Festival event beginning at 6 p.m. (cultural performances start at 5 p.m.). The evening features Mariachi Las Catrinas — an all-female powerhouse known for stunning vocals, impeccable style, and infectious energy. Families can enjoy face painting, a kids' art project, and delicious Mexican dishes from local food vendors, with margaritas, wine, beer, and other refreshments available for purchase. Food will be served until supplies run out.

Maggie's Blue Rose joins the festivities with food and drink specials starting at 4 p.m., followed by a ballet folklórico performance by Grupo del Baile Tierra at 5:30 p.m.

And of course, no Cinco de Mayo is complete without a great margarita. Discover the best spots for margaritas on Catalina, or follow the Catalina Taco Trail for fresh fish tacos, carne asada, and more.