Fiesta for Cinco de Mayo with racing chihuahuas, a margarita bike, music and more around DC NBC4 Washington [Video]

Before you reach for a sombrero for Cinco de Mayo: Do you know the origin of the day?

News4’s Tommy McFly got a history lesson from the Mexican ambassador to the United States Esteban Moctezuma (yes, he said he’s related to the Aztec ruler!).

“It’s not just a Mexican celebration, but also an American celebration,” Moctezuma said.

Why? Because Cinco de Mayo celebrates a military victory that benefitted the United States, as well, according to Moctezuma.

Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. According to Moctezuma, President Abraham Lincoln was relieved that Mexico halted the advancement of the French toward the southern border in the midst of the Civil War. Then, the leaders of the two countries began writing letters to each other.

How should people who aren’t Mexican celebrate Cinco de Mayo?

“Enjoy family and really remember that Mexico is a very important …