It’s that time of year: Cinco de Mayo! Celebrating the defeat of invading European armies at the Battle of the Pueblo in Mexico and the last substantial European threat to the Americas, Cinco de Mayo is a lively time of festivities in both Mexico and America. In the spirit of freedom and unity of America and her neighbor south of the border, millions of Americans take part in the celebration of Mexican culture with some of the best of food, music, and dance!
While the Smoky Mountains love their heritage of country cookin’ with fried chicken, greens, buttered biscuits, and apple pie, locals and visitors to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have plenty of fantastic options to celebrate the culture and cuisines of Mexico while nestled among the majestic green mountains.
Best of all, Cinco de Mayo falls on the weekend this year, so let the festivities last all weekend and indulge in some flavorful margaritas! Fill your weekend from Friday to Sunday with live music, savory Mexican cuisines, a festive atmosphere, and the independent spirit of Mexican-American culture while enjoying the free spirit of majestic Smoky Mountains.
Viva 5 De Mayo
2250 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Newly established in the Pigeon Forge area, Viva 5 De Mayo has already become one of the area’s favorite spots for happy hour and fantastic drink specials. Additionally, guests can expect a large menu with varying options among all your Mexican cravings like chimichangas, burritos, and savory fajitas. The atmosphere is colorful yet refined for a dining experience that is both laid-back and special.
No Way Jose’s Cantina
555 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
With a huge covered patio right on the river, No Way Jose’s is a great way to kick back with a few margaritas, chips, and guacamole while the babbling sounds of the water serenade you in the midday sunlight. Just down the street from the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, hit up No Way Jose’s after checking out the incredible tropical fish you can find in the Gulf of Mexico and other parts of the world!
El Ranchero Loco
2902 Veterans Blvd Suite 5
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
You are promised (and delivered!) made from scratch, authentic Mexican cuisine like Piña Loca (stuffed pineapple), street tacos on corn tortillas, and fajitas served in a Molcajete. Using the freshest ingredients and a passion for the culinary arts, El Ranchero Loco loves seeing their guests experience the best that Mexican cuisine can offer in addition to a “mi casa es tu casa” kind of service that is sure to leave you feeling whole-heartedly welcomed into some Latin culture this Cinco de Mayo.
Loco Burro
735 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Boasting one of the best rooftops in Gatlinburg, gather with friends on the plush sofas around the firepit while enjoying delicious margaritas and gorgeous mountain views. Let the day slip to night under the trendy rooftop bar lighting before taking a table to dig into mouthwatering fajitas and generously portioned specialty plates!
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in the cabin:
Staying in the Smoky Mountains during the springtime is a truly magical time, in addition to all the incredibly fun activities. With stunning mountain views, flourishing wildlife, and blooming flora, why not host your own Cinco de Mayo celebration in your Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Cabin? Create a taco bar in the fully loaded kitchen or grill up some mouthwatering steaks on the deck while sipping on cold Coronas. Use your cabin’s theater room or flatscreen TVs to screen your favorite Latino films with the kids for a Cinco movie night.
Show your appreciation for Mexican-American culture by incorporating their love of tight family bonds and community through shared meals, whether it’s in one of the area’s fantastic Mexican restaurants or around the table in your cabin!
Other festivities happening during the weekend of Cinco de Mayo in the Smokies:
Shine and Dine
Saturday May 4
4 PM to 8 PM
Just down the road from Pigeon Forge, the third Smoky Mountain city of Sevierville, Tennessee, is hosting its 2nd Annual Shine and Dine Event where you can experience all the best food and drink in the area alongside live entertainment! In one location at the Bruce Street Gazebo, taste finger-licking-good barbeque, flavorful craft cocktails, and locally distilled moonshine. Families are welcome too, with discounted tickets for attendees under the age of 21 or those who do not wish to drink. All proceeds go to support the local community of Sevierville, so, it’s an event that can make your stomach and your heart feel good.
Check out their event page on Eventbrite for more information and tickets! It’s a fun activity that is a short drive from your Pigeon Forge Tennessee Cabin!
