The City of Arkadelphia is revamping its annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. 

This year, the event is undergoing changes with a new date, a fresh title and engaging family activities. 

Presented by Flying B Rentals, the “May 4th Fiesta” is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, from 5-9 p.m. at the Town Square lot. Like previous Cinco de Mayo celebrations, attendees can expect live music, food trucks, and custom beverages. 

New to the festivities in 2024, the event will showcase a Latin line dancing instructor, performers from Arkansas Circus Arts, and a designated “Kids Zone,” featuring bounce houses, a temporary tattoo station, a piñata area, and a glitter wall for capturing photo opportunities. 

“We’ve heard countless times that people love the events, but wish there was something more for the kids to do,” Special Events Manager Halle Posey said. “We’re working with a great company that’s made it easy to blend youth activities into our event theme. We’re super excited!” 

Outfitting the Kids Zone is A-Team Party Rentals. The Quitman-based company started working with the City of Arkadelphia during the 2023 Christmas events season. The party rental company will set up a bounce house, a ball pit and a glitter photo wall on the south side of the lot for attendees to enjoy. 

City officials are excited to welcome Calle Soul Salsa Band to the May 4th Fiesta. Formerly known as Tropical Latin Band SSG, the group has performed at the past two Cinco de Mayo celebrations. 

The May 4th Fiesta will feature a variety of authentic Mexican food trucks. Vendors include Vidal’s Tacos, La Casa De Mi Abuelita’s Mawmaw’s House, Nach’yo Nachos, Three-Seven Catering and The Crazy Pineapple Stand.

“It was extremely important to us to have authentic, Mexican flavors on display at the May 4th Fiesta,” Posey said. “These trucks are all fan favorites around Arkadelphia, and we are thrilled to have them at the May 4th Fiesta!” 

The V Bar & Grill has been selected as the event’s exclusive beverage provider. The restaurant will sell margaritas, beer and wine throughout the 4-hour event. 

“Not only is The V [Bar & Grill] this year’s beverage provider, but they’re also a sponsor of the May 4th Fiesta,” Posey said. “We’re grateful for their support and look forward to working with them at this event and at events to come.” 

Cinco de Mayo translates to the Fifth of May and is a Mexican holiday celebrating Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. 

Due to this year’s holiday falling on a Sunday, city officials have opted to hold the event on May 4. The intention is to return to the traditional May 5 date for the celebration in 2025. 

Stay up-to-date on what’s coming up in the City of Arkadelphia! CLICK HERE to download the city’s 2024 event calendar.