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Cinco de Mayo — the Fifth of May — is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, though it is historical in nature.

However, it’s a common misconception in the United States that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day (that date is actually Sept. 16).

Rather, Cinco de Mayo commemorates an initial victory for the Mexican Army led by Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín against French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This was an against-all-odds win for the Mexican troops and served as a turning point — Mexico eventually won their independence from France.

“This battle serves as a symbol to the Mexican people,” said Deanna Rodriguez Root, chairwoman for the Shafter Cinco de Mayo Committee. “It demonstrates anything is possible if one has the self-determination, courage and pride.”

Nowadays, Cinco de Mayo is far beyond battle plans, but yes, the pride remains. And indeed, it’s a time to set a strategy for fun & fiesta!

Kern County is no exception — plenty of parties, parades, concerts, comida and cultural performances will mark the special day.

Here is a listing of events that you y tu familia can add to your Cinco de Mayo entertainment calendar:

• The Shafter Cinco de Mayo Committee invites the public to a grand celebration Saturday, May 3. The downtown parade starts at 10 a.m. with the fiesta following shortly thereafter at 11 at Mannel Park (Central & Mannel avenues). There will be food, games, music, mariachis, folklorico, arts & crafts and a carnival through 8 p.m. For more information, call 746-4352 or 910-2797.

• The city of Delano will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with several events, including a Cinco de Mayo Carnival from now through May 4 at Delano Memorial Park (Lexington & Garces streets), a Cinco de Mayo parade and the Cinco de Mayo Pageant. Malo will also be performing live on Friday, May 2. The parade in downtown Delano will be televised by Telemundo 11. Carnival, food, rides, live music and entertainment will take place all weekend long. Join Groove 99.3 for a show & shine display.

• Soluna Mexican Folk Ballet, 2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 3, Beale Memorial Library. Free. Details, 868-0701.

• Cinco De Mayo concert Saturday, May 3, 8 p.m. at Club Nile, 1721 19th St. Celebrate Latin hip-hop! Performing live, Down aka Kilo, La La and Terminal Madness. This concert is a celebration of Latin music and how it has emerged in the field of hip-hop. Ticket prices, $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Tickets available at: www.vallitix.com or 322-5200. All tickets include a dinner.

• St. Augustine Church in Lamont, 10601 Myrtle Ave., is hosting its 26th annual Cinco de Mayo Kermesse Sunday, May 4. Folklorico Soluna will perform after the English Mass at noon. The rest of the festivities & more folklorico will begin at 3 p.m.

• Cinco de Mayo Comedy Jam, with Anjelah Johnson from Mad TV, 8 p.m. Sunday, May 4, Nile Theater, 1721 19th St. $20; available at The Nile and all Vallitix locations. Details, 322-5200.

• Cinco de Mayo 2008, with Mento Buru, Thee Majestics, Fatt Katt and The Von Zippers, 6:30 p.m., Monday, May 5, Fishlips, 1517 18th St. $5, 21 and over. Details, 324-2557.