Five of what, exactly?

John McCrea best summarized the popular view of America’s biggest Mexican celebration with the lyrics “I don’t know much about Cinco de Mayo / I’m never sure what it’s all about.” Often confused with Mexican Independence Day (which is September 16), Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory against the French in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. Of course, Napoleon’s French army conquered Mexico a year later, so, to this day, Cinco de Mayo remains a regional Mexican holiday, celebrated primarily in the state of Puebla. Oddly enough, this minor holiday on the Mexican calendar is huge north of the border (largely because of the marketing efforts of beer companies). Having no qualms about not knowing what they’re celebrating, Americans have embraced the festive annual consumption of chips, salsa and Corona.

In the American spirit of Cinco de Mayo, I direct your attention to the 2003 Taco Eating Contest; $20 enters you in the competition to consume the most tacos in five minutes. All contestants win dinner for two and a one-month membership to 24-Hour Fitness in Folsom. The grand prize is $265 in Dos Coyotes food and a specially inscribed seat inside the restaurant. The contest is set for Monday at 5 p.m. at Dos Coyotes Border Café, 13385 Folsom Boulevard in Folsom. Call (916) 351-9750 for info.