Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs brings authentic music, art, cuisine to Arenas, May 5

Hocker Productions will present a block party in the Arenas District celebrating Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs on May 5 from 4 to 10 p.m. with music starting on the street at 2 p.m.

Presented in part by Cuervo 1800 and Herradura tequilas along with Corona, Modelo and Pacífico cervezas, the event will take place on Arenas Road between Indian Canyon Drive and Calle Encilia.

"I am always looking for ways to blend music, art and cuisine together in an outdoor setting, utilizing the spectacular views and weather of our desert oasis," said Jeff Hocker, the event's executive producer. "This one-of-a-kind event will bring the unique, colorful and incredible culture of Mexico to the heart of downtown Palm Springs with live music, cuisine from La Cocina at Reforma, bull riding and festive decorations lining the street."

While Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs is a free cultural event, guests can also choose a VIP Cantina experience with a hosted bar, including Cuervo 1800 and Herradura tequilas, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Corona and Modelo cervezas and more with in and out privileges. Tickets for this elevated experience are $75.00 and are available at cincodemayopalmsprings.com.

Headliners will include a Selena tribute artist and Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles. Translating to the "Los Angeles Rainbow Mariachi" in English, the group is the world's first all-LGBTQ+ mariachi. A unique and dynamic ensemble representing the traditions of Mexico, this group was created as a haven for mariachi musicians who identify as LGBTQ+ to come together and perform traditional Mexican music. Featured Latinx DJs will include DJ Galaxy, Bassmoves and Lizz Castles.

As part of the event's focus on providing authenticity, Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs has partnered with Palm Springs Sister Cities to kick off the promotion of Palm Springs' sister city San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The nonprofit's mission is to enrich lives through collaborative and influential partnerships. It works to foster cross-cultural understanding, facilitate meaningful exchanges and inspire powerful artistic, economic, cultural and educational initiatives that positively impact both communities.

Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs is open to the public and is for 21+ only with a suggested donation of $10 being accepted at each of the entrances. These donations will benefit DAP Health, Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus, Greater Palm Springs Pride and the LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert.

Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs would not be possible without the support of the city of Palm Springs, Riverside County Supervisors District 4, Town Real Estate, Silvercrest and Palm Springs Disposal along with the Arenas District merchants: Gay Mart, Hunters, Quadz Palm Springs, Streetbar, Chill Bar Palm Springs, Blackbook, Dick's on Arenas, Sonny's Bar and Grill, Lulu California Bistro, Johannes, Division Menswear, Bear Wear and Rough Trade.

For more information or to purchase VIP Cantina tickets, visit cincodemayopalmsprings.com. Learn more about Palm Springs Sister Cities at sistercitiesps.org.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Cinco de Mayo Palm Springs brings Mexican culture to Arenas May 5