Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico’s day of independence, but that historic event is celebrated on September 16. Cinco de Mayo is actually the celebration of the Mexican army’s victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Of course, for most Americans, it’s an excuse to drink tequila and eat tacos. Just remember, as with any drinking holiday — be a responsible adult. If you’re choosing to imbibe, be sure to have a designated driver, use public transport, cabs, Uber, or Lyft.  Did we miss your favorite spot for tacos and tequila? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

Stella Taco
One of our favorite spots for tacos in the city, Stella Taco is whipping up a batch of marionberry frozen margaritas for the holiday. It’s already a great place for margaritas, especially Austin style, which feature an upturned mini-bottle of Corona nestled in the slushy drink. (2940 NE Alberta St.; 971-407-3705)

BarFly Bus Cinco de Drinko
BarFly is waiting until the weekend to celebrate, so on Saturday, May 7, hop on the party bus with some friends and get driven around town to multiple cantinas for complimentary tastings and great deals on snacks and drinks. Tickets for the bus are $25 a person or $200 for a group of ten. Make sure you get them in advance! (Tickets available here)

The Liquor Store
For Cinco de Mayo this year, The Liquor Store is featuring a tequila tasting and $1 tacos during happy hour from 4 — 7 PM. In the evening, from 8:00 PM — 10:00 PM, the amazing Red Light Lit Magazine, an erotic literary publication, will be visiting and reading stories and performing acts about love, romance, and desire, along with local musicians playing Latin American sultry love songs. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door, and you can buy them here. (3341 SE Belmont St.; 503-754-7782)

El Mercado
El Mercado is one part market place, one part community center, and one part food cart pod, and is one of the best and most beautiful Latin American food carts in the city. It doesn’t have a Cinco de Mayo event listed yet, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be a bustling good time. Grab whatever you fancy from one of the food-carts and head inside for a glass of Latin wine or beer at Barrio. (7238 Foster Rd.)

Photo via Flickr user SGPhotography77