Each spring, Los Cabos welcomes visitors to join the nationwide celebration that transcends festivity to glimpse the rich tapestry of our region’s culture and history. Amidst the revelry, guests are invited to uncover the soul-stirring narratives that define this beloved vacation destination beyond its sun-kissed shores.
Faro de Cabo Falso: Guiding Light of Resilience
At the heart of our coastal paradise stands the Faro de Cabo Falso (the Lighthouse of the False Cape), a towering testament to resilience and ingenuity. Constructed in 1896 under the watchful eye of Spanish engineer Joaquín Palacios Gómez, this beacon of hope began its luminous journey on May 5, 1905. Its inauguration on Cinco de Mayo serves as a poignant reminder of Mexico's triumph over adversity, weaving the threads of history into the very fabric of our land.
Queen Calafia: Our Origins in Female Empowerment
Queen Calafia, a fictional heroine originating from Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo's 16th-century novel Las Sergas de Esplandián (The Adventures of Esplandián), is a powerful cultural symbol for Los Cabos and all of the Californias. Depicted as a formidable warrior queen ruling over a mythical kingdom, her narrative embodies themes of sovereignty and untamed wilderness. Scholars suggest her myth may have influenced the naming of California, as explorers sought a land akin to Montalvo's paradise. Over time, Calafia's legend has transcended literature, becoming a symbol of California's quest for independence.
Damiana Sour: A Toast to Heritage and Flavors
In Los Cabos, our Cinco de Mayo cocktail of choice is the Damiana Sour, a libation steeped in the botanical heritage of Baja California Sur. Crafted by Beverage Consultant Osvaldo Vazquez, this alluring elixir pays homage to the legendary Queen Damiana herself. Infused with the aromatic essence of Damiana, a flower indigenous to our shores, each sip is a journey through time and tradition. With a nod to the historic Faro de Cabo Falso, this cocktail is more than just a drink—it's a celebration of our past, present, and future. Make the drink with the following recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Tequila, General Gorostieta Blanco
- 1 oz Damiana Guaycura (U.S.) or Damiana Punto G Licor (MX)
- ½ oz Lime Juice
- ¼ oz Agave Honey
- 8 drops of Angostura Bitters (U.S.) or Aztec Ruda Bitters (MX)
- ½ Dash of Fee Foam (U.S.) or Foamer Don Foamy (MX)
- Pensamientos flowers (Pansies) for garnish
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine all the ingredients.
- Shake vigorously until well-mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a tumbler glass with an ice ball.
- Garnish with edible flowers and a few drops of bitters.
- Serve and enjoy responsibly.
This Cinco de Mayo, raise a glass to the legends and landmarks that make Los Cabos a sanctuary of heritage, and natural beauty.
Learn more about Baja California Sur’s local cultural events and holidays.
