Cinco De Mayo

Cinco de Mayo, one of Mexico’s liveliest and most colourful festivals celebrating its food, culture, drinks and music is coming to Riverlife on May 6.

For the festive occasion (which has its origins at the battle of Pueblo when the French were defeated) the old naval store precinct will be transformed into a little piece of Mexico, complete with mariachi band, salsa dancers, Mexican street food, sangria, a Margarita bar, DJ Andres, sombrero wearing crowd and the occasional donkey.

On the delicious menu, which will be served from 1-7pm, are Pulled Pork Quesadillas served with spicy slaw, sour cream and guacamole; Chilli Beef & Bean Nachos with sour cream and guacamole; Soft Shell Fish Tacos served with avocado, mango, cilantro salsa and jalapeno cream and for vegans, there'll be a special vegan dish available on the day. Meanwhile the Churro Cart will be peddling traditional Mexican donuts.

To accompany there’s Dos equis, Corona or Cascade Light beers, Blueberry & Passionfruit Red Wine Sangria, Mexican Margaritas, Strawberry Daiquiris, Yarran Wines (Cuvee Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon) and basic spirits and soft drinks.

And, to keep the party going till the clock strikes 12, there’s a fabulous kitschy line up of music and entertainment.

The Mad Mariachi Band will have the crowds dancing, joining conga lines and doing Jarabe Tapatio, aka Mexican hat dances, while the Azucar Afro-Latin Dance Studio will get everyone salsa-ing with their dance lively lessons. Meanwhile Duo Serenata will whisk everyone away to old Mexico with their traditional songs.

That's not all - there's also a Chilli Eating competition, Sugar Skull Painting Stall and Sombrero Stall.

Nice to know - All tickets include entry, meals and entertainment.

Need to know – Cinco de Mayo is an all ages and fully licensed event. All patrons MUST have an entry ticket. Alcohol cannot be purchased without a valid ID.