21 Apr 2000
A variety of activities and programs have been planned by Dallas schools to observe Cinco de Mayo. The holiday celebrates Mexico's victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. A native Texan, General Ignacio Zaragoza, led the Mexican army of 2,000 men to defeat the French army of more than 6,000. This independence day is observed on May 5 (Cinco de Mayo).
In addition to the events to be held at the schools, district teachers and students have been invited to participate in the 11th Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Fair Park on Saturday, May 6-7. The Fair Park event will highlight district programs and educational opportunities for parents and students. Fair hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday; and noon until 6 p.m. Sunday, May 7. The event is free to district students and teachers.
Among the events scheduled for May 5 are a ballet folklorico performances at Amelia Earhart Learning Center, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., 3531 N. Westmoreland, and at the Language Academy/Pinkston at 2:15 p.m., 2200 Dennison St. A carnival and mariachi dance will highlight the celebration at Ben Milam Elementary, 4200 McKinney, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.