DALLAS City of Winners

On the fifth day of May in 1862, the citizens of Mexico triumphed decisively over an enemy invader greatly superior in training and military experience.



On the slopes of Puebla, a town about 100 miles east of Mexico City, the French soldiers of Napoleon III were halted, then vanquished by Mexican troops and Chilians numbering 33,000. Most were soldiers but many were civilians, using stones, picks and any weapon at hand. The sovereignty of Mexico was defended and preserved by the bravery and heroism of her people.



Every year in Dallas, this thrilling chapter in the history of our southern neighbor is celebrated with a colorful fiesta in Pike Park on Harry Hines Boulevard. Established in 1912 and named in honor of Edgar L. Pike, a member of the Park Board from 1908 to 1919, Pike Park has become headquarters for a year-round series of Mexican-American celebrations, fiestas, craft classes, dances and other cultural activities.



As Spanish surnames have gradually begun to appear on lists of prominent Dallas businessmen, doctors, attorneys and civic leaders, the original tightly knit Mexican-American community of Little Mexico has gradually dispersed throughout the city. On special occasions during the year, however, such as Cinco de Mayo and 16 de Septiembre, nostalgic old Pike Park once again comes into her own as the background for color, music, dancing, magic, laughter, food, fun, fellowship and new and renewed friendships.



The proud heritage of an important segment of our Dallas community is once again honored and commemorated.