SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) — Thousands gathered in the South Bay to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in a grand fashion. This year, San Jose hosted two parades to honor Mexican heritage, with one of the events officially recognizing and celebrating lowriders in the community.
Downtown San Jose was alive with the festivities of Cinco de Mayo, comprising of a parade and a party. Marina Romero attended the event to celebrate her heritage, cars, and family.
In East San Jose, another parade took place, extending down King Road. Ruth Salas brought her daughter Genesis to the parade, reminiscing about her childhood memories of attending the event with her parents. She emphasized the significance of sharing this experience with her daughter and exposing her to their cultural heritage.
CONNECTED: As Cinco de Mayo approaches, celebrations are scheduled throughout the United States. However, the same level of festivity is not anticipated in Mexico.
Three hundred low riders and their drivers proudly participated in the event, reviving a community tradition surrounding these unique cars that had been absent for years.
Armando Barbosa, a member of the United Lowrider Council, expressed his gratitude towards the city officials and the community for coming together to celebrate their culture. He humbly acknowledged the significance of this event and the efforts made to make it a reality.
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San Jose City Council Member Peter Ortiz reflected on his upbringing on the East Side of San Jose, reminiscing about cruising as a young man. He expressed joy at the transformation of this experience into an official city-sponsored event. Ortiz played a pivotal role in bringing this festival to East San Jose, overcoming years of controversy
