Thousands of west Contra Costa County residents shared their cultural pride Sunday by participating in the 20th anniversary of the city’s annual Cinco de Mayo parade and party on 23rd Street.
The festivities included live performances, dancing, mechanical bull riding, children’s activities and traditional food.
Among the sponsors were the city of Richmond, the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the 23rd Street Merchants Association, PG&E and Chevron.
Enjoy these photographs of the event, attended by an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 people, by Richmondside freelance photographer Maurice Tierney.
Richmond Cinco de Mayo photo essay by Maurice Tierney
Cinco de Mayo, meaning the “Fifth of May,” recognizes the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While the win was significant historically, it’s not Mexico’s Independence Day, which is celebrated Sept. 16.
The event organizer, the 23rd Street Merchants Association, summed up the sentiment of the day well in a Facebook post, saying, “Huge thanks to everyone who came out and supported the Cinco de Mayo Festival in Richmond! Your energy and enthusiasm made it a fantastic celebration!”
