Cinco de Mayo, the celebration of Mexican heritage and culture, is set to begin in many cities across the country, including Atlanta, Georgia. The celebration commemorates Mexico's 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla, marking the date that is mistaken for Mexico's Independence Day. While May 5 is an official holiday in Mexico, celebrations are generally modest and largely centered on Pueblo. The holiday has since evolved into a major cultural and commercial event in the United States.