The Mount Vernon Recreation Department and Westchester Latinos Unidos hosted a Cinco de Mayo celebration in Mount Vernon's Doles Center on Monday evening.

The event say upwards of 60 families stopping by to enjoy fresh popped popcorn, a short history lesson and just a taste of Mexico's rich culture.

Juan Carlos Torres Flores, with Club Sierra Norte de Puebla, was also in attendance.

"In Mexico, its one of those holidays that is more important, after Independence Day, because here in the United States, a lot of people think its independence day and its not Independence Day," he said.

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the May 5, 1862 Mexican victory over invading French forces during the Battle of Puebla.

Because the Mexican troops were outnumbered and had less resources, the win showed resilience and boosted moral for Mexicans during the French-Mexican war.

"We're in New York, pero I'm feeling like we're in Mexico, so it's a very special day for us," Torres said.

For those of you who missed Monday's event, Latin Festival will be coming to Hartley Park in Mount Vernon on May 18 with live Latin music, food and more.