You've probably heard of Cinco de Mayo before, as visions of tacos, margaritas, and ice-cold Coronas dance around in your head. But what is Cinco de Mayo really all about, and why do Americans celebrate this holiday?

What is Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo is a frequently misunderstood holiday. People often mistake the date for when Mexico became independent from Spain. However, the date actually commemorates a failed French invasion from 1861 to 1862, after a young Mexico defaulted on its debt payments to European governments. The French launched their invasion in late 1861 and forced the Mexican government to retreat to the north.

Very confident of further victories, the French focused their attention on one place—Puebla de Los Angeles. This attack, though, was anticipated by Mexican President Benito Juárez, and when the French finally attacked, on May 5, 1862, the French had to retreat after losing almost 500 soldiers. The Mexican forces, on the other hand, lost fewer than 100.

Does all of Mexico celebrate?

While the battle was not strategically significant, it represented a symbolic victory for the Mexican forces and added to the resistance. Today, only the town of Puebla celebrate the day, which begs the question, why is it so popular in the U.S.?

Why is it celebrated in the U.S.?

Many people in the U.S. think Cinco de Mayo is in celebration of Mexico's independence, but Mexican Independence Day is actually on September 16. So why is Cinco de Mayo such a big deal?

In the 1950s and 60s, Latino activists appropriated the holiday and promoted it as a way to raise awareness and build Mexican-American pride. It was seen as an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and identity, promote ethnic consciousness, and build community solidarity. Slowly, celebrations acquired corporate sponsors, and year after year, the holiday took on a more commercial element.

Now, Cinco de Mayo is promoted as the day to celebrate Mexican food, culture, traditions, and, for many people, alcohol. For many, the holiday is like Saint Patrick's Day—an excuse to drink—but it's also an opportunity for people to learn more and engage with Mexican culture and history.

Let's take this opportunity to explore the real Mexico and all it has to offer.

Where should I stay?

Eco-Friendly Tent in Tulum

Guests will be close to sandy white beaches and lush tropical jungles during their nature retreat in Tulum, Mexico. This glamping site is situated on an organic permaculture farm in the colorful town of Tulum, which is rich in archaeological features and has many excellent restaurants and cafes.

Tropical Bungalow Rental on the Yucatán Peninsula

Located in Southeastern Mexico on the eastern part of the Yucatán Peninsula, the beautiful Quintana Roo region is home to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, Cobá, Tulum, Xel-Há, and Xcaret. Full of rich history and culture, this region is ideal for an adventurous Caribbean glamping vacation. The area is popular for snorkeling, windsurfing, diving, cycling, and more!

Beachfront Rental on the Costa Azul

This property is located on a privately-owned peninsula along Mexico's renowned and prestigious Riviera Nayarit coast. Set cliffside and overlooking the ocean, this glamping site is just north of Puerto Vallarta. Nestled between sandy beaches and the small pueblos of San Pancho and Sayulita, guests have easy access to restaurants, beach bars, and local shops, as well as are just 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

Luxury Camping Experience on Isla del Espiritu Santo

This luxury camping site is set on an island off the coast of Baja California Sur—and close to the capital, La Paz—in Mexico. The property is located on a stunning beach and forms part of the Espiritu Santo National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is short boat ride from the mainland and is situated next to Isla Partida.

---

For even more accommodation options, head to Glamping Hub for a look at our full inventory in Mexico!

It's 2017, and President's Day is just around the bend! You know, that Monday in February when you have off and the weekend instantly becomes twice as nice? Oh yes, that one.

But before you start planning your Sunday night shenanigans, be sure to check out these properties. Because what better way to spend your three-day weekend than at an all-American cabin or an undeniably bold dome in Idywilld, California?

Check out these top five glamping sites, inspired by our first five executive powerhouses, the charm of their puffy wigs, and even one highlighting a quite prominent First Lady.

1. George Washington - Virginia

This cabin has two things in common with our beloved founding father: it is located in the first President's home state, and it's ivory white exterior gleams just like Washington's infamous (not-actually-made-of-wood) dentures.

2. John Adams - New England

As the first president to officially live in the White House, we're pairing up John Adams with this villa in Vermont. Set in the endearing New England region, it overlooks the Green Mountains and boasts a regal presence that just screams executive glamping.

3. Thomas Jefferson - Virginia

As a lover of both innovation and technology—of his time—we believe that this alternative, two-story tree house is the perfect Jefferson pick. Additionally, it comes certifiably tech-approved with a 40-inch LED HD television, a Blu-ray player, and even Netflix. House of Cards and chill, anyone?

4. James Madison - California

Fourth on our list goes out to James Madison's main squeeze, Dolley Madison. Popularly known as Washington D.C.'s most killer hostess, we're dedicating this California dome to her. Why's that? Well, she singlehandedly saved some of Washington's most coveted documents, during the British invasion of 1814. Her brave actions can only be expressed by the boldest of glamping sites—this dome in Idyllwild.

5. James Monroe - Louisiana

For our fifth and final pick, we're venturing down South. As the head negotiator for the Louisiana Purchase, this glamping site embodies James Monroe's Lousiana triumph and is located on a historic bayou near the oh so charming French-influenced New Orleans. Fit for a President, it is chic, spacious and, dare we say, très beau.

---

If these downright Presidential sites did not quite "fit the bill," by all means, explore on! Click here, for more glamping sites across the globe and back!

We know—it's hard to believe that there's anything better than chocolate, much less chocolate in fun animal forms. We've found a better way for you to celebrate this Easter, however, and we guarantee it'll save you a lot of sugar highs and sore stomachs.

While typically a holiday spent among family, there's no reason that has to change this year! Switch things up, and surprise the whole family by proposing the annual egg hunt in a brand new location. Our 10 best Easter glamping getaways will have the whole family begging to have this yearly, pastel-themed gathering away from home every year from here on out.

1. Upscale Barn Loft near Glacier National Park, Montana

Great for families of: Up to 6.


Hide your Easter eggs: In Glacier National Park.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Grass-fed bison or beef.

2. Stunning Lodge Cabin for Groups in Lake Tahoe, California

Great for families of: Up to 9.


Hide your Easter eggs: On the beaches of Lake Tahoe.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: A Cobb salad.

3. Luxurious Modern Farmhouse with Private Hot Tub and Wi-Fi in the Catskills, New York

Great for families of: Up to 8.


Hide your Easter eggs: Around the landscaped yard with views of the Catskills.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Buffalo wings. (Instead of melting chocolate on sticky, little fingers, adults and all will be licking sauce off their digits!)

4. Stunning Cabin Rental With Hot Tub in Big Bear Lake, California

Great for families of: Up to 6.


Hide your Easter eggs: Along the shores of Big Bear Lake.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Pan-fried abalone.

5. Luxurious Secluded Cabins Nestled Within the Colorado Rockies Perfect For Getaway

Great for families of: Up to 18, in between all four cabins.


Hide your Easter eggs: Near the western slope of the Colorado Rockies.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Peach cobbler. (Georgia's not the only state with prime peach-growing conditions!)

6. Family-Friendly Cabin with Hot Tub in Sundance, Utah

Great for families of: Up to 9.


Hide your Easter eggs: Along the Provo River.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: A cured meat and cheese platter, featuring local businesses Beehive Cheese Company and Creminelli Fine Meats.

7. Private Tram up to Deluxe, Pet-Friendly Villa with Lake Views in Austin, Texas

Great for families of: Up to 6.


Hide your Easter eggs: The multiple balcony decks of this unique accommodation.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Puffy tacos.

8. Spacious and Modern Cottage in the Peaceful Catskills Mountains, New York

Great for families of: Up to 6.


Hide your Easter eggs: All around the private five acres the accommodation sits on.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Weck sandwiches.

9. Luxurious, Tropical Villa Rental in Key West, Florida

Great for families of: Up to 6.


Hide your Easter eggs: Around the sandy beach in front of the glamping rental.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: Stone crab and citrus salad.

10. Upscale Log Cabin Encircled by Orchards in Oregon

Great for families of: Up to 8.


Hide your Easter eggs: Throughout the property's orchards and vineyards.


Traditional food from the state to prepare on Easter Sunday: A wild mushroom and salmon dish with a mixed berry pie for dessert.

For more glamping properties with Easter availability, have a peek at our collection of "Top Glamping Rentals for Easter 2016," too!

Easter is coming. Time to consume more than your fair share of Peeps and egg-shaped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Oh yes, we know all your guilty Easter pleasures. With this holiday filled with chocolate bunnies and candy covered eggs just around the corner, we, too, are thinking about some indulging.

What are we craving this Easter 2016? We're thinking family-friendly getaways by way of riverside cabins in the mountains and tipis surrounded by surreal wildlife. Check out our favorite Easter vacation destinations for 2016 starting up in Northern California, heading down the western coast, and all the way over to South Carolina.

(Easter bunny not included.)

Family-Size Cottage with Trinity River Views in California

Are you and the family Northern California natives? In that case, spring may be just like any other day for you, but you'll still want to take advantage of that Nor-Cal weather from this cottage in Big Flat.

Have yet to explore the Trinity River? Lucky for you, this cottage is situated right alongside it—perfect for both the little adventurers and grown-up explorers in your family. This kid-friendly rental is spacious, tranquil, and just the Easter escape you and the little ones need.

Large, Open-Spaced Cabin near Joshua Tree National Park

Maybe you and the family tend to stick to your annual Yosemite getaway, but why not switch up spotting deer for exploring rugged rock structures and the surrounding desert?

Discover Joshua Tree National Park by staying at this fantastic open-spaced cabin. Relax on the spacious deck with a morning coffee, take advantage of the fireplace on chilly desert nights and, for the love of Joshua, you must enjoy that private, outdoor hot tub.

Charming Cabin Overlooking Lake Wapogasset in Amery, Wisconsin

If you're a Midwesterner at heart, you will find this cabin overlooking Lake Wapogasset as a prime Easter vacation destination, fit for friends, family, or just a getaway with your better half.

Inside will provide you with plenty of room for entertaining, a fully-equipped kitchen for...what is it we eat on Easter, again? Whatever traditions you have with your family, a stay here will be sure to offer you the perfect Easter, plus a few extra perks.

Solar-Powered Luxury Tipi in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina

Maybe you are the kind of family who camps to the beat of your own drum. Well, then, gather the troops and move to the grooves of this luxury tipi in Boone, North Carolina.

Staying here this spring means warm afternoons, hiking Blue Bear Mountain, nightly campfires, and even whitewater rafting. Perfect for a small family vacation, you will have cozy beds, additional roll-aways, and provided linens to sleep up to four happy glampers.

Want to see more Easter options? Look no further. For more on spring getaways, check out our blog post on the best East Coast road trips, perfect for a Spring Break escape, as well as our extra-favorite sites for Spring Break 2016.

Even the Easter Bunny is going glamping this year, thanks to this collection of egg-celent escapes! Embrace the spring air during this holiday weekend with your loved ones in these cottages, treehouses, and cabins for the best Easter you’ll have had yet.

Spacious and Modern Cottage in the Peaceful Catskills Mountains, New York

Orchestrate the perfect egg hunt at this spacious and modern cottage in the Catskill Mountains of New York. The perfect Easter escape will become a reality here, as this pristine vacation spot is surrounded by miles of green forest, high bush blueberries, and old stone walls.

Whether it be playing board games or giving concerts on the gorgeous piano in the living room, the airy and elegant interior of this secluded cottage will set the perfect scene for some quality family time. If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to the popular Hunter Mountain for some scenic hiking and unbeatable views. When you stay at this cottage, you’ll feel like you’re living in a perfect little spring fairytale during your Easter weekend.

12-Person Luxury Tree House Getaway near San Francisco, California

Plan the perfect family Easter party this year at this 12-person luxury tree house near San Francisco. This castle-like structure will put a smile on everyone's faces, from your youngest cousin to your great grandmother, with its six skylights, majestic turrets, and walk-in stone fireplace.

Its fully equipped kitchen will ensure that your Easter meal will be one of the tastiest yet, made even better by the gorgeous surrounding views of the Californian forest. For a spring-themed activity, check out the nearby Point Reyes Bird Observatory, or take a daring first swim of the year at Tomales Bay State Park.

Stunning Post-and-Beam Cottage with Tranquil Pond, Vermont

Live a cozy lifestyle this Easter with this stunning post-and-beam cottage near a lovely pond in Vermont. Overlooking exquisite gardens with abundant wildlife, spring will be in full bloom and you’ll be able to enjoy Vermont’s pristine nature in peace.

Check out the charming nearby New England town of Putney, too, for some eclectic shopping and maple syrup houses. You and your loved ones are sure to stay entertained in style with the handful of artisan studios, intimate music venues, and even a puppetry theater!

Astonishing Family-Friendly Tree House near Austin, Texas

With this unforgettable tree house near Austin, Texas, you and your family will surely have the most memorable and fun Easter yet. Perched above a creek and next to a small waterfall, it’ll be hard to beat the view from this up-high accommodation. Adventurous families will find their little slice of paradise here with a canopy tour of the surrounding wildlife.

Only a 20-minute drive from Austin, your family will be able to stay in peaceful seclusion while still having easy access to everything the city has to offer. For a funky and fun activity, visit the Mexic-arte Museum to peep some vibrant colors and breathtaking art that will add a little spice to your getaway.

Stunning Lakefront Cabin with Spiral Staircase in Gainesville, Georgia

This stunning A-frame cabin with huge glass windows in Georgia will add a touch of southern sunshine to your Easter this year. The 10-foot table in this cabin will be perfect for an abundant Easter dinner for the family, and the gas fireplace will offer the perfect place to snuggle around for hours when the post-meal food coma hits.

You and your family will love being situated right next to scenic Lake Lanier, with your own private boat dock and four included kayaks. Kick back and relax with a few hours of fishing for this lake’s many striped bass to get some fresh air and embrace nature this Easter weekend.

For a look at the rest of our recommended rentals for Easter 2016, click here!